Card up one’s sleeve, perhaps

“Card up one’s sleeve, perhaps” – Unmasking the Crossword Clue

Ah, the elusive crossword clue. Sometimes it’s a straightforward definition, sometimes a cryptic puzzle, and sometimes it leaves you scratching your head, wondering if the answer is even in your vocabulary. Today’s mystery: “Card up one’s sleeve, perhaps.”

This clue definitely has a whimsical feel to it, conjuring up images of magicians and their secret tricks. But what does it really mean? Is it a literal card, or something more metaphorical?

Let’s break it down.

“Card up one’s sleeve” is a common idiom, suggesting a secret plan or a hidden advantage. It’s often used in situations where someone has a trick up their sleeve, a surprise tactic ready to be unveiled at the opportune moment.

The phrase likely originated from the world of card games. In a game like poker, players often hide a card up their sleeve, ready to pull out and reveal when they need to improve their hand. This deception adds a layer of strategy and intrigue to the game.

But “card up one’s sleeve” is not just limited to cards. It can be applied to any situation where someone is secretly preparing for a specific outcome.

Thinking about the clue in this context, we need to consider how the phrase “card up one’s sleeve” can be applied to a word or phrase. Is there a word that means “secret plan” or “hidden advantage” that could be considered a “card up one’s sleeve”?

This is where the fun of crossword solving comes in. The clue provides a hint, a starting point for our deduction. We need to use our knowledge of the English language, our understanding of idioms, and our ability to think creatively to find the perfect solution.

So, take a moment to ponder the clue, explore your mental dictionary, and see if you can crack the code.

Good luck, and remember, the satisfaction of solving a challenging crossword clue is truly rewarding!

Available Answers:

ACE.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 17 Jun 24, Monday