Some crossword clues arrive like a gentle breeze, offering a clear path to their solution. Others, however, are more akin to a dense fog, obscuring the way with tantalizing hints and deceptive turns. Then there are those rare gems that instantly catch the eye, promising a delightful wrestle with language and logic. Today, we’re diving into one such intriguing four-letter
crossword clue
that perfectly encapsulates the cunning artistry of cryptic puzzles: “Consul paid to hold back good point (4)“.
At first glance, this
crossword clue
seems to weave a narrative, painting a picture of an official, perhaps involved in some international intrigue, paid to keep a valuable piece of information under wraps. It’s the kind of mini-drama that often unfolds within the tight confines of a daily
crossword puzzle
grid, inviting solvers to look beyond the obvious. The beauty of such a clue lies in its ability to present a perfectly plausible scenario on the surface, while secretly nudging you towards a clever piece of wordplay.
Let’s unpack the components that make this such a fascinating
crossword clue
. We start with “Consul.” In its most straightforward sense, a consul is an official. But in the world of cryptic
crossword puzzles
, a word can be a definition, part of an anagram, a homophone indicator, or even a sly misdirection. Could “Consul” be hinting at a sound-alike, or a less common meaning of the word itself? Its presence immediately sets a tone of officialdom, of a person in a position of trust or authority.
Next, we have “paid to hold back.” This phrase is particularly rich with possibilities. “Paid” suggests compensation, a transaction. “To hold back” implies suppression, restraint, or a deliberate act of non-disclosure. What does it mean when someone is compensated specifically for
not
doing something, or for
concealing
something? This isn’t just about financial exchange; it’s about the deliberate act of withholding. This crucial part of the
crossword clue
forms the very core of the action implied, making us think about words that mean to suppress or to keep quiet, especially for a price. It’s where many
crossword tips
would tell you to focus your attention, as it often contains the key to the main wordplay or the primary definition.
Finally, we arrive at “good point.” This seemingly simple phrase opens up a fascinating array of interpretations. A “point” can be a specific argument in a discussion, a valuable piece of information, or even a physical sharp end, like the point of a pen or a spear. When combined with “good,” it could refer to a valid argument, a beneficial detail, or even a well-honed tip. The ambiguity is classic
cryptic crossword
style, designed to make you consider multiple meanings simultaneously. Is the “good point” something intellectual or something tangible? The brilliance of this
crossword clue
is how these different facets can lead to entirely different routes of thought.
Solving
crossword clues
like this one is an exercise in linguistic agility. It demands that you consider not only the dictionary definitions of each word but also their potential as building blocks for a hidden word. Is “Consul” part of the definition? Is it wordplay in disguise? How does “paid to hold back” connect with “good point” to form a four-letter word? The economy of words in a cryptic
crossword clue
is always astounding, packing so much meaning and potential for misdirection into such a short phrase.
For anyone who loves the challenge of
solving crosswords
, this particular
crossword clue
is a masterclass in elegant construction. It invites you to peel back the layers, to play with synonyms, and to appreciate the clever ways words can be manipulated. It’s a prime example of why so many people are drawn to these brain teasers, offering that satisfying ‘aha!’ moment when all the pieces finally click into place. So, take a moment with this brilliant
crossword clue
, ponder its depths, and enjoy the journey of deciphering its clever secret.
Available Answers:
PLUS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 24 August 2025