There are some puzzles that just
sing
. They arrive on the page, seemingly innocuous, yet within their compact structure lies a universe of wit, misdirection, and pure intellectual delight. Today, we’re dissecting one such brilliant piece of wordplay, a truly standout
crossword clue
that stopped us in our tracks and demanded our full attention.
The clue in question is:
“Can refuse lass developing confidence (4-9)“
.
Just reading it aloud, you can almost hear the gears turning. This isn’t your everyday, straightforward definition. This is a cryptic
crossword clue
, a masterclass in linguistic alchemy that transforms a simple sentence into a profound mental workout. For anyone who relishes the art of the daily crossword, this clue is a prime example of why we keep coming back for more. It’s concise, intriguing, and layered with possibilities, inviting you to peel back each word and explore its double meanings.
What immediately jumps out to seasoned solvers of a cryptic
crossword clue
is the hyphenated length indicator: (4-9). This tells us we’re looking for a two-word solution, a four-letter word followed by a nine-letter word. This structure is a vital piece of the puzzle itself, narrowing down the field of potential answers and guiding our approach to the wordplay.
The beauty of such a well-crafted
crossword clue
lies in its deceptive simplicity. “Can refuse lass developing confidence.” On the surface, it paints a rather quaint picture, perhaps of a young woman gaining self-assurance. But in the world of cryptics, every word is a potential breadcrumb or a clever trap. Is “Can refuse” the direct definition we’re seeking? Or is it part of an elaborate charade? And what about “lass developing confidence”? This phrase, particularly “developing confidence,” is where the true genius of the clue’s construction shines through, hinting at a process or an evolution that requires careful thought.
This isn’t just about finding a synonym; it’s about decoding a carefully constructed linguistic riddle. The joy of tackling a challenging
crossword clue
like this comes from the hunt, the process of elimination, the flashes of insight when a word suddenly clicks into place and illuminates the path forward. It’s about understanding the mechanisms behind the wordplay – anagrams, reversals, hidden words, homophones, and clever charades – and figuring out which ones the setter has employed to lead us to the solution.
For many, solving a particularly tricky
crossword clue
is more than just filling in squares; it’s an exercise in lateral thinking, a mental gymnastics routine that keeps our minds sharp and our problem-solving skills honed. This clue, with its elegant phrasing and intricate possibilities, perfectly embodies that spirit. It’s the kind of clue that makes you smile when you finally crack it, appreciating the sheer cleverness of its creator.
So, take a moment. Read it again: “Can refuse lass developing confidence (4-9)“. Ponder the possibilities. Consider each word’s potential roles. What definitions might “Can refuse” suggest? How does “lass developing confidence” hint at a specific process or outcome that fits the (4-9) structure? The answer, when it comes, is wonderfully satisfying, a testament to the elegant craft of cryptic
crossword clue
setting. It’s truly a standout entry that deserves admiration for its wit and ingenuity, and a fantastic challenge for any crossword enthusiast.
Available Answers:
SELFASSURANCE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 5 November 2025