Unpacking a Tricky TV Trope: That “Crime Show Extra, Informally” Crossword Clue
Every so often, a crossword clue just lands perfectly, doesn’t it? It’s not just about finding the right word, but about appreciating the cleverness in how the clue is phrased. Today, we’re diving deep into one such gem that’s been popping up and sparking some great “aha!” moments for many solvers: “Crime show extra, informally.”
This particular crossword clue is a fantastic example of what makes daily crosswords so engaging. It blends pop culture, common colloquialisms, and that satisfying moment when all the pieces click. Let’s break down why this specific crossword clue might have given you pause, and why it’s so much fun to solve.
First, let’s consider the core elements of this crossword clue. We have “crime show.” Instantly, your mind probably jumps to flashing lights, yellow tape, grim detectives, and the intense atmosphere that defines these popular dramas. From gritty procedurals to classic whodunits, crime shows are a cornerstone of television, and their visual language is immediately recognizable. You picture the scene of the crime, the courtroom drama, or the tense interrogation room.
Then there’s “extra.” In the world of film and television, an extra is a performer who appears in a non-speaking role, usually in the background, to create a realistic crowd or setting. They’re the people milling about a street, sitting in a restaurant, or, in the case of a crime show, perhaps gawking at a police cordon or waiting outside a courthouse. Their job is to fill out the scene, providing an authentic backdrop for the main action. They blend in, part of the scenery, yet crucial for the verisimilitude of the show.
Now, here’s where the challenge and the charm of this specific crossword clue truly lie: “informally.” This single word is the game-changer. It tells you immediately that you’re not looking for a formal, technical term like “background artist” or “uncredited actor.” Instead, you need to think colloquially, perhaps a bit playfully, about how someone might informally refer to these background players, especially within the context of a crime scene or legal proceeding.
This informal twist is what elevates a good crossword clue to a great one. It forces your brain to pivot from formal definitions to everyday language, slang, or even a humorous nickname. It’s a common tactic in crosswords – taking something very specific and asking for its most casual, often widely understood, moniker. When you encounter a crossword clue that includes “informally,” “casually,” “slang,” or “briefly,” you know you need to dig deeper into common parlance rather than academic terminology.
Solving this type of crossword clue often requires a bit of lateral thinking. You might start by listing synonyms for “extra,” then consider how each might apply to a crime show. Then, you apply the “informally” filter. What’s a common, slightly irreverent term for someone who is merely an observer, a bystander, or simply present without active involvement, especially in a public or dramatic setting like a crime scene?
The beauty of finally cracking a crossword clue like “Crime show extra, informally” is the instant recognition that follows. It’s not just an answer; it’s an obvious one, once you’ve shed the formal constraints. It perfectly captures that specific role in an informal, relatable way that instantly brings a smile to any crossword solver’s face.
Did this particular crossword clue catch you off guard? Or did you spot the informal angle right away? Share your thoughts on this delightful crossword clue, or any other recent ones that have given you a good workout, in the comments below!
Available Answers:
PERP.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0821-25 NY Times Crossword 21 Aug 25, Thursday