Today, we’re shining a spotlight on a deceptively simple yet endlessly fascinating
crossword clue
: “Contains.” At first glance, such a direct, common word might seem like a straightforward definition. Your mind probably leaps immediately to its most literal synonyms – words like ‘holds,’ ‘includes,’ or ‘encompasses.’ And certainly, more often than not, these direct interpretations are precisely what the setter has in mind when crafting this particular
crossword clue
. They are the sturdy anchors of the English language, grounding the clue in its most fundamental meaning.
However, any seasoned solver knows that the world of crosswords is rarely that simple. A
crossword clue
like “Contains” carries far more potential than its surface suggests, venturing into abstract, figurative, or even cleverly misleading territory. Does it contain an emotion, a secret, or perhaps a consequence? The true artistry of a well-crafted
crossword clue
lies in its ability to subtly guide your thoughts down multiple, often divergent, paths.
Consider also the structural implications of this versatile
crossword clue
. In the realm of cryptic crosswords, “contains” is a prime indicator for a “container” type of clue, where one word or string of letters literally ‘holds’ another within it. It might also hint at a hidden word, discreetly tucked away within the very phrasing of the clue itself or a surrounding phrase. Recognizing these common stylistic conventions is paramount to cracking any
crossword clue
that seems to defy an obvious, direct definition. The setter’s art often lies in presenting a seemingly simple phrase that, upon deeper inspection, reveals layers of possible meanings.
The number of letters in the answer grid is, as always, your most reliable compass. A shorter slot might indeed point to a common, straightforward synonym. Conversely, a longer answer slot could open the door to a more nuanced interpretation, a less common synonym, or even a phrase that encapsulates the concept of containing. And never underestimate the power of crossing letters already filled in from other solved
crossword clues
. These partial solutions act as critical navigational beacons, dramatically narrowing down the vast sea of potential answers to a manageable stream, often revealing the setter’s intended path.
When faced with “Contains” as your next
crossword clue
, resist the urge to lock into the very first idea that pops into your head. Instead, take a moment to brainstorm. Jot down all the direct synonyms that come to mind. Then, broaden your scope: How else could something ‘contain’ something? What other contexts might apply? Could the setter be playing a clever trick with a less common, perhaps archaic, synonym? Or is “contains” functioning as a misdirection, leading you away from a more playful, wordplay-based solution? The most common trap for solvers is often to fixate on the most obvious answer, thereby missing a more elegant or less direct solution that perfectly fits the grid and the setter’s clever intent.
To truly master a
crossword clue
like “Contains,” cultivate a flexible and adaptive mindset. Consider the various parts of speech it might subtly hint at, even if the clue itself presents as a verb. Sometimes, the answer isn’t a direct synonym but something
related
to the act of containing – perhaps a type of vessel, or an action that implies containment. This requires stepping back and looking at the clue from multiple angles, a truly essential skill for any serious crossword enthusiast.
Every
crossword clue
, even one as seemingly unassuming as “Contains,” is a mini-puzzle in itself. It’s an invitation to explore the richness and flexibility of the English language, to flex your vocabulary muscles, and to engage in a delightful mental tussle with the setter. The satisfaction isn’t just in filling the grid, but in appreciating the ingenuity that goes into crafting each challenging phrase. So, the next time you encounter this versatile
crossword clue
, take a deep breath, embrace the challenge, and let your linguistic detective work begin. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
HAS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Wednesday’s Daily By John Kugelman / Ed. Patti Varol