There are moments in every solver’s journey when a particular crossword clue seems to defy logical entry, a seemingly straightforward definition cloaking layers of nuance. You’ve navigated the trickiest cryptics, pinpointed obscure synonyms, and outsmarted the most cunning wordplay, only to find yourself momentarily stumped by a phrase that appears utterly mundane. This isn’t about grand historical figures or esoteric scientific terms; sometimes, the most common everyday concepts present the greatest mental hurdles within the carefully constructed confines of a crossword puzzle.
Take, for instance, a recent encounter with a crossword clue that simply presented “Drink Choice.” On the surface, what could be simpler? Everyone makes them. From the morning brew to the evening unwind, our days are punctuated by these very selections. Yet, as many a seasoned crossword solver knows, simplicity in a crossword clue often masks a deeper, more intricate path to the solution. It’s a classic example of a definition that feels
too
obvious, forcing you to reconsider every angle, every possible interpretation. Is it about the
act
of selecting? The
result
of that selection? A specific
type
of beverage? The
context
in which one chooses?
The beauty – and occasional frustration – of the crossword grid lies in its demand for precision. A crossword clue, particularly one so deceptively simple, requires the solver to strip away superficial meanings and pinpoint the exact, singular answer intended by the setter. When confronted with a phrase like “Drink Choice,” the mind naturally races through a myriad of possibilities. Does it relate to a menu item? A personal preference? A social convention? This wide net of association, while helpful in other forms of problem-solving, can become a significant obstacle when navigating the narrow path to a singular crossword solution. Many a crossword solver has found themselves circling this kind of definition, trying to decipher if the setter is hinting at a common idiom, a particular category of beverages, or perhaps a less common synonym for the act of choosing itself. The art of solving rests on interpreting the setter’s intent behind every word in the crossword clue.
This “Drink Choice” crossword clue serves as an excellent case study in the art of deconstruction, highlighting how setters can leverage everyday language to create a compelling brain-teaser. It’s the kind of crossword clue that makes you appreciate the subtle power of wordplay and the vastness of the English language, even when applied to something as commonplace as deciding what to quench your thirst with. For those who have wrestled with this specific crossword clue, or similar ones that pivot on seemingly ordinary concepts, understanding the nuances of how such definitions are constructed is key to unlocking future puzzles. It’s a testament to the setter’s skill when a straightforward phrase like “Drink Choice” can hold up an entire crossword puzzle, forcing a pause, a moment of reflection, and ultimately, a satisfying “aha!” moment as the correct crossword solution finally snaps into place.
Available Answers:
NEAT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Saturday’s Daily By Alan Massengill & Doug Peterson / Ed. Patti Varol