There are some crossword clues that just make you pause, tilt your head, and truly dig into the layers of meaning. Today, we’re zeroing in on one such gem: ‘Complaint of colonel in charge (5).’ It’s a classic example of a seemingly straightforward
crossword clue
that hides a delightful bit of wordplay, designed to test your lexical agility and your knowledge of common puzzle patterns.
At first glance, this particular
crossword clue
presents a clear conceptual anchor: ‘complaint.’ Easy enough to find synonyms for, right? But the addition of ‘of colonel in charge’ is where the magic, and the potential for a delightful brain-teaser, truly begins. Crossword setters are masters of misdirection and clever association, and this five-letter challenge is no exception to their artful craft.
Let’s dissect this intriguing
word puzzle
. We have ‘complaint,’ which immediately brings to mind a range of synonyms: grumble, protest, grievance, or even a physical ailment. The trick here, as with many a challenging
crossword clue
, is to consider which of these five-letter options might also subtly, or not so subtly, connect to the second, more descriptive part of the phrase. The exact nature of the ‘complaint’ needs to align with its source.
Then there’s the ‘colonel in charge’ element. This phrase immediately evokes images of military authority, command, and perhaps the specific pressures that come with high-ranking leadership. Are we looking for a particular type of complaint common to those who hold such positions? Or is ‘colonel’ serving as a highly specific example to narrow down the contextual field for our ‘complaint’? Many a cryptic
crossword clue
employs such precise imagery to guide you toward a broader, yet fitting, category.
When tackling a
crossword clue
of this nature, one of the foundational
solving strategies
is to consider if it presents a double definition. Could ‘complaint’ be one definition, and ‘of colonel in charge’ somehow be another distinct yet convergent path, both leading to the same five-letter word? Or is ‘of colonel in charge’ simply elaborating on the
source
or
character
of the complaint, providing essential context rather than a separate definition?
Another common
crossword tip
for complex clues involves pondering homophones. Does ‘colonel’ sound like something else entirely that might factor into a five-letter complaint? While ‘colonel’ famously tricks solvers with its unusual pronunciation, in this instance, it might be more about the
role
and
implications
it carries rather than a direct phonetic twist. The cleverness often lies in the literal meaning.
The five-letter length is, as always, a critical constraint. It immediately eliminates a vast number of potential synonyms for ‘complaint’ and forces us to be incredibly precise. Think about words that are concise yet carry significant meaning within the context of someone in a position of demanding authority. What kind of specific grievances might a colonel in charge be known for? Perhaps a persistent
moan
about logistics, or a common
gripe
about troop discipline that echoes through the ranks? The mental picture helps solidify the possibilities.
This particular
crossword clue
truly encourages you to think beyond the obvious and delve into the nuances of language. It’s not just about finding a simple synonym; it’s about discovering the
perfect
synonym that resonates with the descriptive phrase. It’s about appreciating the art of
wordplay
and how a seemingly simple phrase can be packed with layers for the observant solver. This intricate dance of words is precisely what makes a daily
crossword puzzle
so profoundly rewarding for enthusiasts.
So, as you ponder this fascinating
crossword clue
, take a moment to consider the weight of authority, the nature of grievances often encountered in command, and how a clever setter might weave these elements into a concise, five-letter solution. Don’t rush to the dictionary; instead, allow your mind to explore the semantic possibilities and contextual links. The true joy of mastering
crossword help
isn’t solely in reaching the answer, but in savouring the intellectual journey to it. When the pieces click into place, it’s a truly satisfying moment, isn’t it?
Available Answers:
COLIC.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 9 July 2025