The Thrill of the Chase: Unpacking “Best-of-Seven Games, Say”
Ah, the crossword. That delightful dance of words, a cerebral workout disguised as a pastime. We’ve all been there, staring intently at a grid, a cryptic clue staring back, promising untold satisfaction upon its conquest. Today, we’re diving into a particularly intriguing clue, one that conjures images of intense competition and nail-biting finishes. Our focus:
“Best-of-seven games, say.”
This clue, at first glance, might seem straightforward. It points to a format, a structure of competition. But in the world of crosswords, nothing is ever truly straightforward. There’s always a layer of wit, a subtle twist, a playful misdirection waiting to be unearthed. And this particular clue is a masterclass in that art.
Think about what a “best-of-seven” series truly represents. It’s not just about winning; it’s about enduring. It’s about strategy, adaptability, and the mental fortitude to bounce back from defeat. In sports, particularly in the championships of leagues like the NBA or MLB, these series are the epitome of drama. We witness athletes pushing their physical and mental limits, storylines unfolding with every game, and fan bases living through an emotional rollercoaster. The tension builds, the stakes get higher, and the final victory, when it comes, is all the sweeter for the arduous journey.
But the clue isn’t just asking us to
think
about sports. It’s asking us to
say
something. The “say” is crucial. It implies a vocalization, an announcement, or perhaps even a less formal utterance. This adds another dimension to our puzzle-solving. We’re not just looking for a word that
means
“best-of-seven games.” We’re looking for a word or phrase that someone might
use
to describe or refer to such a series.
Consider the various ways people might discuss these extended contests. They might be enthusiastic, declaring, “It’s a real nail-biter, looks like it’s going to be a
best-of-seven games, say
!” Or they might be more analytical, assessing the situation: “Given the current standings, it’s highly probable we’ll see a
best-of-seven games, say
.” The clue is designed to elicit a specific kind of answer, one that captures the essence of this competitive format through its common parlance.
The beauty of this clue lies in its conciseness. In just a few words, it evokes a wealth of imagery and association. It taps into our shared understanding of competitive structures and the language we use to articulate them. It forces us to sift through our mental lexicon, searching for that perfect fit.
As crossword enthusiasts, we relish these moments of clarity. That “aha!” moment when a collection of letters snaps into place, perfectly answering the cryptic call. It’s a testament to the cleverness of the clue writer and our own ability to decode their intentions. So, when you encounter
“Best-of-seven games, say,”
don’t just think about the games themselves. Think about how people
talk
about them. Think about the words that roll off the tongue when discussing such epic showdowns. That’s where the true answer often hides, waiting to be discovered.
Available Answers:
SERIES.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 1118-25 NY Times Crossword 18 Nov 25, Tuesday