That classic phrase, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” instantly conjures vivid imagery and profound meaning. It’s a statement we all understand, a cornerstone of communication that highlights the power of visual media. But when this very phrase appears as a
crossword clue
, especially with the deceptively simple addition of “e.g.,” it transforms from a familiar saying into a fascinating linguistic puzzle.
Suddenly, the challenge isn’t to explain what the phrase means, but rather to categorize it. This particular type of
crossword clue
demands more than just general knowledge; it requires a deep dive into the nuances of language itself. We’re not looking for the
effect
of a thousand words, but the
nature
of the expression “A picture is worth a thousand words.”
The phrase itself is attributed to Fred R. Barnard, who used it in an article in
Printers’ Ink
in 1921, though the concept dates back much further. It encapsulates the idea that complex ideas can be conveyed more effectively and succinctly through a single image than through lengthy descriptions. It’s a testament to the human brain’s ability to process visual information rapidly and holistically.
But let’s pivot back to its role as a
crossword clue
. The “e.g.” (exempli gratia, Latin for “for example”) is the key. It tells us that “A picture is worth a thousand words” is merely
one instance
of a broader category. What kind of expression is it? Is it a proverb, a maxim, an adage, an aphorism, a truism, or something else entirely? Each of these terms has subtle distinctions, and a good
crossword clue
often hinges on identifying the most precise fit.
Consider the options:
A
proverb
is a short, popular saying that expresses a general truth or piece of advice. “A stitch in time saves nine” is a classic example.
A
maxim
is a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct. Think of “Look before you leap.”
An
adage
is a proverb or short statement expressing a general truth. It’s very similar to a proverb, often implying a sense of age and traditional acceptance.
An
aphorism
is a pithy observation that contains a general truth. “The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it” (Oscar Wilde) is an aphorism.
A
truism
is a statement that is obviously true and says nothing new or interesting. While “A picture is worth a thousand words” is true, it’s more profound than a mere truism.
Navigating this semantic landscape is where the real fun of solving this particular
crossword clue
begins. You have to evaluate which definition most accurately encompasses the essence of “A picture is worth a thousand words” in the context of common
crossword clue
patterns. It’s about recognizing how these expressions function in our language – as concise conveyors of widely accepted wisdom or observation.
Deciphering this kind of
crossword clue
requires a combination of linguistic knowledge, an understanding of common phrase categories, and often, a knack for considering the typical lengths of answers in crosswords. It’s a challenge that highlights the richness and complexity of English, proving that even the most familiar phrases can harbor delightful mysteries when viewed through the lens of a
crossword clue
. So, before you rush to fill in those squares, take a moment to ponder the true nature of this timeless expression.
Available Answers:
ADAGE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0713-25 NY Times Crossword 13 Jul 25, Sunday