The satisfying “aha!” moment is why we keep coming back to the daily crossword. It’s that fleeting instant when a seemingly impenetrable phrase suddenly makes perfect sense, unlocking a cascade of letters across the grid. Today, we’re diving into a particularly evocative example, a prime illustration of how a well-crafted crossword clue can be both straightforward and delightfully elusive: “Command that initiates a chase.”
This isn’t just any crossword clue; it’s a masterclass in direct but cunning wordplay. At first glance, it feels simple. A command? About starting a chase? Plenty of words spring to mind. But the true genius of this particular crossword clue lies in its precision. It demands
the
command, the one definitive word that perfectly encapsulates both the imperative nature and the initiation of a pursuit. This is where the real fun of solving a challenging crossword clue begins.
Consider the landscape of commands. We use them constantly, from telling a pet to “sit” to instructing a friend to “go.” But which among them carries the distinct weight of
initiating a chase
? This isn’t about general movement; it’s about the specific act of launching a pursuit. Think of the scenarios: a dog owner encouraging their canine companion, a game of tag among children, or even a more abstract concept of pursuit. Each context might suggest a different verb, but only one will be the perfect fit for this specific crossword clue.
When approaching a crossword clue of this type, it’s essential to break down its components. First, “command.” This tells us we’re looking for an imperative, likely a verb in its base form, or a short, sharp interjection. Second, “initiates.” This implies the
start
of something, not merely participation in an ongoing event. And finally, “a chase.” This narrows the field considerably from just any action to a specific kind of pursuit. The marriage of these three elements is what makes this crossword clue so compelling.
Many solvers might initially consider words that imply speed or movement, like “run” or “follow.” While these are certainly related to chases, are they always
commands that initiate
one? A police officer might shout “stop!”, but that doesn’t initiate a chase as much as attempt to prevent one. A coach might say “go!”, but is that specifically about a chase, or just general starting? The beauty of finding the correct answer to a crossword clue like “Command that initiates a chase” lies in sifting through these near misses, appreciating the subtle distinctions in meaning.
This kind of daily crossword clue forces us to think beyond the obvious. It’s not a cryptic crossword clue, relying on complex layers of wordplay, but rather a direct challenge to our vocabulary and understanding of nuance. It’s about finding that single, elegant word that serves multiple purposes within the confines of the clue. The most satisfying solutions to a crossword clue are often those that, once revealed, seem utterly inevitable, leaving you wondering how you ever struggled.
The journey to solve a crossword clue like “Command that initiates a chase” often involves mental acrobatics. You might visualize different scenarios: a fox hunt, a game of hide-and-seek, a parent calling after a child. What single word universally fits the bill for
commanding
the
start
of a
chase
? The brilliance is in its universality and specificity simultaneously. It’s a testament to the English language’s richness and the crossword constructor’s skill in harnessing it. This precise lexical challenge is what makes tackling any given crossword clue such a rewarding mental workout.
So, as you ponder this engaging crossword clue, consider the power of a single word. How much meaning can be packed into a few letters? How precisely can language define action and intent? The solution isn’t just a word; it’s an answer that perfectly encapsulates the dynamic energy and purpose implied by “Command that initiates a chase.” It’s a quintessential example of why we love to solve crossword puzzles.
Available Answers:
GO FETCH!.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 1114-25 NY Times Crossword 14 Nov 25, Friday