Welcome back, fellow word sleuths! Today, we’re tackling a type of crossword clue that often elicits a ‘hmm’ rather than an immediate ‘aha!’. It’s deceptively simple on the surface, but like many a good daily crossword challenge, it holds a subtle trick up its sleeve. The clue in question? “Also (2,4)”.
Now, the first thing that jumps out at us, beyond the word ‘Also,’ is that intriguing parenthetical notation: (2,4). For any seasoned crossword solver, this immediately signals that we’re looking for a two-word answer. The first word is two letters long, and the second word is four letters long. This enumeration is a vital piece of the puzzle, significantly narrowing down the vast universe of ‘also’ synonyms.
The word ‘also’ itself is a workhorse in the English language. It can mean ‘in addition,’ ‘besides,’ ‘too,’ ‘likewise,’ ‘as well,’ ‘moreover,’ and so much more. This richness in meaning is precisely what makes “Also (2,4)” such a cunning crossword clue. When you first see it, your mind might race through one-word synonyms like ‘too’ or ‘likewise.’ But the (2,4) instantly tells you to shift gears. We’re not looking for a single adverb here; we’re seeking a specific two-part phrase that conveys the same sense of addition or concomitance.
So, how do we approach such a specific crossword clue?
1.
Brainstorm Two-Word Synonyms:
Start by thinking of any two-word phrases that mean ‘also.’ Don’t worry about the letter count just yet. Just get them down. ‘In addition,’ ‘as well,’ ‘what’s more,’ ‘along with,’ ‘and so on.’ This initial free association helps unlock your brain to the broader possibilities beyond single-word solutions.
2.
Apply the Enumeration:
Now, go back through your brainstormed list and filter them by the (2,4) pattern. Does any of them fit a two-letter first word followed by a four-letter second word? This is where the magic happens. Many common phrases for ‘also’ might have different letter counts, immediately ruling them out. This step is crucial for narrowing down the possibilities for this particular crossword clue.
3.
Context is King:
As with any tricky crossword clue, the surrounding letters and intersecting words are your best friends. If you have a few letters filled in from other clues, plug them into the (2,4) slot. Do they form a coherent phrase that means ‘also’? This iterative process of combining the clue’s meaning with the grid’s constraints is the essence of becoming a proficient crossword solver. Never underestimate the power of intersecting letters to guide your deductions.
4.
Part of Speech:
While ‘also’ is typically an adverb, a two-word phrase might function differently within a sentence. Is it an adverbial phrase? A conjunctional phrase? Understanding the subtle grammatical role can sometimes guide you, especially if you’re stuck between a few possibilities. For instance, ‘and also’ might come to mind, but does it fit the (2,4) pattern? No, it doesn’t. This quick check can save you time when tackling any complex crossword clue.
5.
Think about Common Crossword Fillers:
Some phrases are staples in crossword puzzles because their letter patterns are versatile and appear frequently. Could this be one of them? Seasoned solvers often develop an instinct for these common patterns, which can sometimes provide a shortcut to cracking a tricky crossword clue.
The beauty of a crossword clue like “Also (2,4)” lies in its ability to challenge your assumptions. It forces you to think beyond the obvious, to delve deeper into the nuances of language and word structure. When you finally piece it together – that perfect two-letter, four-letter combination that impeccably captures the essence of ‘also’ – the satisfaction is immense. It’s not just about filling in the squares; it’s about the mental journey you take to get there. It’s about recognizing how clever constructors can twist everyday words into delightful brain-teasers. This particular clue, while seemingly straightforward, is a fantastic example of how enumeration can completely change the game and push your crossword solving skills to new heights. So, if you’ve been pondering this one, remember to trust the process, lean on your enumeration, and let the surrounding clues guide you.
Keep an eye out for more deep dives into specific crossword clues right here on the blog. Happy solving, and may your grids always be full!
Available Answers:
ASWELL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Friday, 13 June 2025