Don’t Leave! A Cryptic Crossword Clue Decoded
There’s nothing more frustrating than staring at a crossword clue, convinced you’re on the verge of an “aha!” moment, only to be left scratching your head in confusion. Today’s clue is a perfect example: “Don’t leave!” It’s short, simple, and yet undeniably cryptic.
This clue plays with the dual meaning of the phrase “Don’t leave!” On the surface, it’s a straightforward command, urging someone to stay. But delve a little deeper, and you’ll find a clever linguistic trick at play.
The phrase “Don’t leave” can also be interpreted as a direction to
remove
something, like a letter or letters, from a word. This is where the true challenge lies.
Let’s break down the clue:
The Phrase:
“Don’t leave!” The clue itself is our main focus.
The Implication:
The clue hints at removing something, specifically letters, from a word.
The Solution:
The answer is a word that, when modified by removing specific letters, becomes another word.
Armed with this understanding, we can now approach the clue strategically. Think about words that might fit the pattern of removal. Consider common words that can be altered by removing letters.
Remember, cryptic crossword clues often rely on clever wordplay and unexpected connections. This is where a bit of creativity and lateral thinking can come in handy.
With a little effort, you’ll be able to crack this cryptic clue and enjoy the satisfaction of a crossword puzzle conquered! Good luck!
Available Answers:
STAY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: html>