Hello, fellow wordplay enthusiasts!
Ever stared at a crossword clue that initially seems utterly baffling, a perplexing blend of words that just don’t want to connect? You know the feeling – that initial moment of squinting at the grid, convinced the setter has finally lost their mind, or perhaps
you’ve
finally lost yours. Then, slowly but surely, a glimmer of recognition, a whisper of a pun, or a delightful double meaning begins to surface, and suddenly, the whole world of the puzzle snaps into focus. That, my friends, is the magic of a truly brilliant crossword clue.
Today, we’re diving headfirst into one such brain-teaser that had me chuckling once the penny dropped. It’s a classic example of how setters expertly weave together seemingly disparate concepts, forcing us to think outside the box, beyond the literal, and into the wonderful realm of wordplay. The particular head-scratcher we’re dissecting is:
“A police department in charge of tart (6)“
.
Just reading it aloud, you can feel the layers, can’t you? “Police department” immediately conjures images of officialdom, stern faces, and perhaps a specific abbreviation. Then we have “in charge of,” suggesting oversight or responsibility. And finally, the star of the show, “tart.” Ah, “tart.” A word brimming with possibilities. Is it about a baked good, sweet or sour? Or something else entirely? This specific crossword clue is a masterclass in misdirection and the delightful ambiguity of the English language.
What makes a crossword clue like this so satisfying? It’s the way it challenges our assumptions. We often approach police departments with a certain gravitas, but here, they’re paired with something that can be culinary, critical, or even a bit cheeky. The juxtaposition is key, and it’s precisely where the brilliance of the setter shines through. It’s not just about knowing words; it’s about understanding their multiple facets and how they can dance together in unexpected ways.
Cracking a complex crossword clue isn’t just about finding the right six letters; it’s about appreciating the journey of linguistic discovery. It’s about recognizing how a common phrase or concept can be twisted just enough to become something entirely new within the confines of the grid. So, grab your favourite beverage and let’s explore the wonderful twists and turns that lead us to the ingenious solution behind this fantastic “police department” crossword clue. The answer, as always, is elegantly simple once you see it, but the path to get there is pure crossword gold!
Available Answers:
ACIDIC.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 16 November 2025