The world of crosswords consistently throws up delightful challenges, doesn’t it? Just when you think you’ve seen every type of wordplay or trivia angle, a new
crossword clue
emerges that makes you pause, scratch your head, and then dive deep into your mental archives. One such recent entry that truly captured the essence of what makes a great puzzle a joy to solve was the
crossword clue
: “Big race that’s no longer around?“.
At first glance, it seems straightforward enough. “Big race.” Your mind immediately races through a myriad of possibilities. Are we talking about a sporting event? Perhaps an epic foot race, a legendary marathon, or an Olympic discipline? Or could it be something vehicular, like a renowned Grand Prix circuit or a famous motorsport series? The Kentucky Derby, the Indy 500, the Daytona 500 – these are all
big
races. But then comes the crucial qualifier, the part that separates the casual guess from the precise solution: “no longer around.”
This addition immediately shifts the focus of the
crossword clue
. It’s no longer about identifying
any
major competition, but rather one that has, for whatever reason, ceased to exist in its original form, been abolished, or perhaps even become completely obsolete. This is where the general knowledge aspect of solving crosswords truly shines. It demands more than just a quick recall of a list; it requires an understanding of history, culture, and sometimes, even the evolution of technology or societal norms.
Consider the implications of “no longer around.” Does it mean a race that simply stopped being held? Or does it hint at something grander, something that might have involved entire nations, or even the very trajectory of human ambition? The phrase evokes a sense of bygone eras, a historical context that adds layers to the
crossword puzzle
challenge. It’s not merely about a forgotten event; it’s about understanding
why
it’s no longer with us. Was it a competitive endeavor between superpowers? An ancient contest lost to time? A specific, monumental undertaking that reached its conclusion or was simply discontinued?
The beauty of a well-crafted
crossword clue
like this lies in its ability to send you down several promising, yet ultimately incorrect, paths before leading you to the singular, elegant answer. You might consider famous historical rivalries, grand engineering competitions, or even abstract “races” like an arms race or a space race. But then, you refine your thoughts, filtering through the precise wording. “Big race” suggests a defined event, a competition with clear participants and objectives. “No longer around” implies a definitive end.
This specific
crossword clue
is a masterclass in combining an intriguing premise with a historical deep dive. It’s a reminder that solving a daily crossword isn’t just about filling in boxes; it’s an intellectual exercise that expands your knowledge and sharpens your deductive reasoning. It prompts you to think laterally, to consider multiple interpretations of common words, and to recall obscure facts that suddenly become incredibly relevant.
For anyone who enjoys the thrill of a good
crossword challenge
, this particular clue stands out as a prime example of what makes the pastime so addictive. It’s the kind of clue that, once solved, elicits that satisfying “Aha!” moment, not just because you found the word, but because you navigated the nuanced layers of its meaning. It’s more than just a word; it’s a piece of history, perfectly encapsulated within a few short words, waiting to be unearthed by the astute solver of a brilliant
crossword puzzle
.
Available Answers:
DINOSAURS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0710-25 NY Times Crossword 10 Jul 25, Thursday