Deconstructing a Tricky Seven-Letter Crossword Clue: Mine Collapse Edition
Crossword puzzles. The very phrase conjures images of Sunday mornings, steaming coffee, and that satisfying “click” of a perfectly placed word. But sometimes, that satisfaction feels miles away, replaced by a gnawing frustration as you stare down a particularly stubborn clue. This week, we’re tackling just such a beast: “Danger as a result of the mine collapsing? (7).”
Seven letters. Seems simple enough, right? Wrong.
The devil, as they say, is in the details, and this clue is packed with deceptive nuance. Let’s break it down, piece by agonizing piece.
First, we have “Danger.” This is our core concept, our primary definitional element. What immediately springs to mind when you think of danger? Hazard? Peril? Threat? All perfectly valid words, but none of them fit the seven-letter constraint. We need to dig deeper, to explore synonyms and associated concepts that might offer a more suitable length.
Next, the phrase “as a result of.” This is crucial. It establishes a cause-and-effect relationship. The seven-letter word we’re hunting for isn’t just
any
type of danger; it’s the specific danger
caused
by a mine collapsing. This narrows our focus considerably. We’re no longer searching for general synonyms of danger; we’re looking for a danger that’s directly linked to the specific scenario presented.
Finally, we have “the mine collapsing.” This is where the imagery comes in. Imagine the scene: the earth groaning, timbers splintering, the sudden, terrifying shift of tonnes of rock and soil. What immediate dangers arise from this catastrophic event? Think about the practical implications. What would workers face? What are the likely aftereffects of such a collapse?
This is where brainstorming becomes essential. Let’s consider some possibilities, keeping that seven-letter constraint firmly in mind.
Suffocation:
The collapse could create a lack of oxygen. Is there a seven-letter word that encompasses that danger?
Entrapment:
Miners could be trapped within the collapsed mine. Again, what single word best describes the resulting danger of being trapped?
Unstable Ground:
The collapse could leave the surrounding area unstable, creating further risks. Is there a geological term that fits the bill?
Flooding:
A collapse could breach underground water sources, leading to flooding. Is there a specific danger related to sudden flooding?
Gas Release:
Mines often contain pockets of dangerous gases. A collapse could release these gases, posing a significant threat. What seven-letter term might describe that risk?
Consider also the perspective of the clue writer. They are trying to lead you to a specific word. They want a solution that’s both accurate and somewhat clever. They will likely try to use the most common word that works, so don’t overthink too much.
The key is to let your mind wander, to explore different angles, and to consider the specific details of the scenario presented. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations of synonyms and associated concepts. And most importantly, don’t give up! The satisfaction of cracking a tough crossword clue is well worth the effort. Let me know if you want more hints!
Good luck, crossword aficionados!
Available Answers:
PITFALL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 25 August 2025