Conquer the Crossword: “Begin anew, as on January 1“
Today’s crossword clue has a delightful seasonal feel to it. It’s a classic, invoking a sense of fresh starts and new beginnings, perfect for this time of year. The clue itself, “Begin anew, as on January 1,” is deceptively simple. It requires you to think laterally, moving beyond a literal interpretation of the phrase.
We’re looking for a word or phrase that encapsulates the essence of starting over, the feeling of a clean slate that so often accompanies the turn of the year. This isn’t just about the act of starting something; it’s about the
feeling
of starting over, the specific sense of renewal associated with a fresh calendar year.
Consider the connotations: hope, optimism, change, resolutions, a fresh perspective. All of these play a role in understanding what the crossword constructor is looking for. The clue cleverly utilizes the specific date, January 1st, to anchor the answer to a very particular type of fresh start. This helps to narrow down the possibilities significantly.
Think about synonyms for “begin anew”. What words evoke similar sentiments of restarting? Consider the context of a crossword puzzle; the answer will likely be a word that fits comfortably into the grid, both in terms of its length and its common usage.
This is where your crossword solving skills really come into play. You’ll need to draw on your vocabulary, your knowledge of idioms and phrases, and your ability to think outside the box. Avoid getting bogged down in overly literal interpretations. The constructor is likely looking for a more nuanced and evocative answer.
Remember, crossword clues often play on words and concepts. Don’t be afraid to consider different interpretations of the words used in the clue. Think about wordplay, puns, and double meanings. Are there any words or phrases that might have a hidden connection to “January 1st”?
This particular clue is a great example of how a seemingly straightforward clue can be surprisingly challenging. But don’t let that discourage you! With a little thought and a methodical approach, you’ll crack this one in no time. Good luck, and happy solving! Let me know in the comments what you think the answer is – but please, no spoilers!
Available Answers:
STARTOVER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Eugene Sheffer – King Feature Syndicate Crossword – Jan 1 2025