Cracking the Code: “Call Off, as a Takeoff”
Ah, the joy of a challenging crossword clue! Sometimes it’s the straightforward definitions that trip us up, and other times, it’s the cryptic, metaphorical hints that leave us scratching our heads. Today’s clue, “Call off, as a takeoff,” definitely falls into the latter category.
At first glance, the clue seems contradictory. How can something be “called off” and a “takeoff” at the same time? This is where the art of deciphering crossword clues comes into play. The key is to think outside the box, consider multiple meanings of words, and embrace the potential for wordplay.
Let’s break down the clue to see what clues we can uncover:
“Call off”
suggests cancellation or postponement, an action that would typically stop something from happening.
“As a takeoff”
hints at a starting point, perhaps a humorous imitation or a literal departure.
The connection between these seemingly opposing ideas lies in the world of
metaphor
and
double meaning
. We need to find a word or phrase that embodies both the concept of stopping and starting, perhaps referencing a specific action that can be both initiated and halted.
Think about it: what could be both a “call off” and a “takeoff”?
Keep your thinking hats on, fellow crossword enthusiasts. This one is a real brain teaser, but I’m confident that with a little thought and a sprinkle of ingenuity, we’ll crack this cryptic clue together.
Available Answers:
ABORT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 3 Sep 24, Tuesday