Ease (up)

“Ease (up)” – A Crossword Clue That’s Easier Than You Think

Ah, the humble crossword clue. Sometimes it’s a breeze, a simple wordplay that sends you sailing through the grid. Other times, it’s a cryptic enigma, a labyrinth of linguistic twists that leaves you scratching your head. But today, we’re tackling a clue that falls somewhere in between: “Ease (up).”

While it might sound straightforward, this clue has a few tricks up its sleeve. It’s a classic example of a “compound clue,” where the wordplay is split across two words. The first part, “Ease,” gives us a direct meaning, while the parenthetical “up” adds another layer of complexity.

So, how do we approach this clue? Let’s break it down.

Firstly, consider the word “ease.” It’s a versatile word, with multiple definitions. It can refer to a state of being relaxed or comfortable, a process of making something easier, or even a gentle slope.

Secondly, we need to unpack the parenthetical “up.” This phrase commonly indicates a change or an increase. It can also imply a movement upwards, or a direction towards a higher position.

Putting these two pieces together, we start to see the potential for wordplay. Could “Ease (up)” be a verb, implying a gradual lessening of effort or pressure? Or perhaps it’s a noun, referring to a specific type of slope or incline?

The answer lies in the intersection of these meanings, in the way they combine to create a single, cohesive solution.

Stay tuned as we explore the potential answers and unravel the mystery behind this intriguing crossword clue.

Available Answers:

LET.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 24 Jun 24, Monday