Every dedicated crossword solver knows the thrill of encountering a beautifully crafted crossword clue. It’s a moment of intellectual delight, a mini-mystery presented in just a handful of words, promising an “aha!” feeling that few other puzzles can deliver. Today, we’re diving into one such gem that perfectly exemplifies the charm and challenge of the cryptic world: “Applaud at start of closing circuit (4)“. This isn’t just any crossword clue; it’s a testament to the cleverness embedded within daily crosswords, designed to both baffle and enlighten.
At first glance, this crossword clue might seem like a jumble of unrelated terms, or perhaps deceptively straightforward. “Applaud” seems like a clear enough action, but how does it connect to “start of closing circuit”? And all of this has to condense into a mere four letters. This is precisely where the beauty of a well-engineered cryptic crossword clue shines through. It demands a different kind of thinking, a willingness to look beyond the obvious and embrace the subtle art of wordplay.
The core of any cryptic crossword clue lies in its dual nature. There’s always a definition, usually hinting at the meaning of the answer, and then there’s the wordplay, which guides you to build or deduce the answer through linguistic gymnastics. For this particular crossword clue, “Applaud” immediately stands out as the most probable definitional component. It sets the stage for the kind of word we’re looking for – something related to showing approval, cheering, or making a celebratory noise. The numerical indicator, (4), is our constant guide, telling us the exact length of the word we need to uncover. This is an invaluable piece of information, narrowing down our search considerably.
However, the real puzzle and the source of its brilliance lie in the second half of the crossword clue: “at start of closing circuit.” This phrase is a masterclass in misdirection and layered meaning, characteristic of compelling crossword clues. Seasoned solvers will instantly recognize common indicators at play. Phrases like “start of,” “first of,” “head of,” or “initially” frequently signal that we should be taking the very first letter of a subsequent word or phrase. Here, “at start of closing” immediately points our attention to a particular letter, inviting us to extract it from the word ‘closing’.
But what then of “circuit”? This is where the crossword clue truly begins to unravel its genius. The word “circuit” can be interpreted in multiple ways – literally as an electrical path, or more broadly as a round, a journey, or a specific part of a larger course. In the world of crossword puzzles, words are rarely used without purpose, and often carry double meanings or evocative associations that are key to the wordplay. The constructor of this crossword clue has meticulously chosen each component to guide you, or perhaps misguide you, towards the intended solution. The challenge, and the fun, is in discerning which interpretation unlocks the correct path.
Unpacking this crossword clue requires patience, a good vocabulary, and an appreciation for the fluidity of language. It encourages you to consider synonyms, homophones, and the various ways words can be broken down or combined. The “aha!” moment, when “Applaud at start of closing circuit (4)” finally clicks, isn’t just about getting the right answer; it’s about appreciating the intricate craftsmanship behind the clue itself. It’s a reminder of why we keep coming back to the daily crossword, eager for the next linguistic challenge, the next clever turn of phrase. This type of crossword clue celebrates the English language, transforming simple words into an engaging mental exercise that leaves you feeling smarter and more satisfied with every solve.
Available Answers:
CLAP.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Saturday, 4 October 2025