Another Cracking Clue Cracked: Decoding “Chore, Task (6)”
Hello fellow word nerds! Another day, another grid, another baffling (or perhaps blissfully straightforward) crossword clue to dissect. Today we’re tackling a classic: “Chore, task (6)“.
The beauty of crosswords, isn’t it, lies in the deceptively simple presentation. A handful of words, a number indicating length, and suddenly you’re transported to a realm of synonyms, homophones, historical trivia, and perhaps the occasional obscure reference. This clue, “Chore, task (6)“, is a prime example.
At first glance, it appears utterly unassuming. We’re looking for a six-letter word that encapsulates the essence of a chore or a task. Easy, right? Well, not always. The devil, as they say, is in the details, and the subtle nuances of language can often throw a spanner in the works.
Think about the word “chore” itself. What connotations does it evoke? We often associate chores with mundane, repetitive duties. Things we
have
to do rather than things we
want
to do. Washing dishes, mowing the lawn, tidying up – these are all quintessential chores. “Task” shares some overlap, but it can also encompass more complex or specialized activities. Think “programming a website” or “writing a report”. These are tasks, certainly, but they carry a different weight than, say, “taking out the garbage.”
Therefore, the six-letter word we seek needs to bridge this semantic gap. It has to capture both the drudgery of a chore and the sense of accomplishment (or at least completion) associated with a task.
Let’s consider some common synonyms for “chore” and “task” and see if any spark inspiration. We have “errand,” “duty,” “job,” “assignment,” “exercise,” and “activity.” Many of these fall short. “Errand” feels too specific, often implying a trip to a store or location. “Duty,” while accurate, can feel a bit too formal or weighty for the general sense of the clue. “Job” is a strong contender, but it can also refer to a formal employment position, which might not be the intended meaning. “Assignment” again tends towards the more formal, perhaps academic, side of things. “Exercise” leans towards physical exertion or practice, and while some chores
are
certainly exercises, it’s not a universal fit. “Activity” is far too broad; virtually anything we do could be considered an activity.
The length constraint, the (6), is crucial. It forces us to focus on words of a specific size, eliminating many potential candidates right off the bat. We can’t get caught up thinking of all of the endless possible synonyms or related words. The number of letters narrows the scope considerably.
Don’t forget to consider the context of the crossword itself. What are the surrounding clues? Are there any intersecting letters that can provide further hints? Sometimes, a seemingly unrelated clue can hold the key to unlocking the solution to this one. Look for themes or patterns within the grid. Is the crossword focused on a particular subject, like gardening or cooking? If so, the answer might be related to that theme.
Crossword solving is a game of deduction and association. It’s about using all available information to piece together the puzzle. Keep thinking laterally, play with synonyms, and don’t be afraid to revisit the clue with fresh eyes. Good luck!
Available Answers:
ERRAND.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Thursday, 31 July 2025