The thrill of a
crossword clue
that perfectly captures a concept, a phrase so ingrained in our language it feels both familiar and just out of reach, is a unique joy for any solver. One such phrase that frequently appears in the grids, testing both vocabulary and an understanding of idiom, is “Be in arrears.” It’s a classic for a reason, brimming with layers of meaning that make for a satisfying solve, whether you’re tackling a quick daily or a challenging Sunday cryptic.
At its core, “Be in arrears” describes a state of being behind on an obligation, most commonly a financial one. Think of it as a lingering shadow of unfulfilled duty. When you are in arrears, you haven’t just missed a payment; you owe for a period that has already passed. This isn’t merely being late; it signifies that a debt or a duty has accumulated over time, often for a defined interval. Landlords frequently use this term for rent, financial institutions for loan repayments, and businesses for services rendered but not yet compensated. It paints a picture of a balance that should have been settled, now overdue. Understanding this precise definition is key when deciphering its presence as a
crossword clue
.
The word “arrears” itself carries a fascinating etymology, tracing back to Old French “arere,” meaning “behind” or “backward.” This linguistic journey adds a certain depth to the phrase, highlighting its historical use in describing anything that was left behind or undone. This isn’t just about money; conceptually, one could be in arrears on their duties or even their reading, although financial contexts are by far the most common in modern usage and, consequently, when encountered as a
crossword clue
. The phrase encapsulates a specific type of indebtedness – not just a future obligation, but a past one that remains outstanding.
Why does “Be in arrears” make such a good
crossword clue
? Firstly, it’s a well-established idiom, universally understood in specific contexts. This makes it fair game for puzzles that aim to test idiomatic knowledge. Secondly, its meaning is precise enough to guide solvers, yet broad enough that various one-word or short-phrase synonyms could fit, depending on the letter count required by the grid. It forces the solver to consider the nuance: is it about being late, or about a standing debt? Is it a general state, or a specific financial condition? The subtlety makes it rewarding.
Consider the practical implications. If a tenant is in arrears on their rent, they owe for a specific past period – say, last month’s rent. This is distinct from simply having a bill coming due next week. The “in arrears” status implies a prior missed deadline and an accumulating debt. Similarly, a company might pay wages in arrears, meaning employees are paid for work already completed, a common practice in many payroll systems. This concrete usage makes the phrase highly recognizable, helping solvers connect the dots when it appears as a challenging
crossword clue
.
Ultimately, “Be in arrears” is a brilliant example of how language precisely describes a particular state of affairs, making it a powerful tool for puzzle setters. It’s a phrase that asks you to dig a little deeper than surface-level definitions, prompting you to consider the specific context and historical usage. The next time you encounter a
crossword clue
that points to this concept, remember the journey of the word and the precise nature of the obligation it describes. It’s a testament to the richness of English and the cleverness inherent in puzzle design.
Available Answers:
OWE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Gary Larson & Katie Hale / Ed. Patti Varol