The particularity of a compelling
crossword clue
often lies in its ability to present an everyday concept in a way that feels both familiar and just out of reach. “Expire, go out of date (5)” is a prime example of such a prompt, challenging solvers to distill a widely understood idea into a precise, five-letter lexical item. This isn’t just about finding a synonym; it’s about locating the
perfect
synonym that fits the grid’s constraints and the puzzle’s overall linguistic tapestry.
When confronted with a
crossword clue
like this, the first instinct might be to race through common phrases associated with the passage of time or the cessation of validity. We all encounter items in our daily lives that “expire” or “go out of date” – from the contents of our refrigerators to the subscription services we rely on. Licenses, memberships, medications, and even fashion trends inevitably reach a point where their relevance or usability diminishes. The core challenge for any
crossword clue
solver is to capture this universal experience with absolute accuracy and conciseness.
Consider the dual nature of the clue: “Expire” and “go out of date.” Both phrases point to a similar semantic field, reinforcing the intended meaning. This often signals that the desired answer is a direct, straightforward synonym, rather than a cryptic or indirect piece of wordplay. However, the exact phrasing of a
crossword clue
can subtly nudge a solver towards one path over another. “Expire” carries a slightly more formal, official connotation, often associated with legal or product-related deadlines. “Go out of date,” conversely, might evoke a broader sense of becoming old-fashioned or obsolete. The brilliance of this
crossword clue
is how it blends both aspects, ensuring a robust and unambiguous target word.
The “(5)” is the gatekeeper, immediately narrowing the field of potential answers. This numerical constraint is what makes
crossword clues
both frustrating and utterly satisfying. Without it, a solver might wander through a labyrinth of longer phrases or less common terms. With it, the mental search parameters become finely tuned. Every letter counts, every syllable matters. The quest transforms from a general brainstorming session into a precision operation, seeking that singular word that articulates “expire” and “go out of date” within the tight confines of five characters.
Many a seasoned solver will tell you that tackling a
crossword clue
involves more than just a strong vocabulary. It requires an understanding of the puzzle-maker’s mind. Is the clue hinting at a common root word? A word frequently seen in other puzzles? Or is it a fresh take on a familiar concept? For “Expire, go out of date (5)“, the directness suggests a foundational word, something essential to the lexicon of time and endings. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that, once solved, feels incredibly obvious, leading to that characteristic “aha!” moment.
The joy of solving such a
crossword clue
lies in moving from a broad conceptual understanding to a specific linguistic conclusion. It’s about recognizing how language efficiently packages complex ideas. The idea of something losing its freshness, its efficacy, or its validity, when boiled down to five letters, reveals the elegance of English. It’s a word that speaks volumes about temporality, obsolescence, and the finite nature of things. Every
crossword clue
offers a miniature linguistic puzzle, and this one, focusing on the inevitable march of time, is particularly resonant. The satisfaction isn’t just in filling the grid, but in appreciating the clarity and conciseness of the word chosen to represent such a pervasive aspect of our existence. This particular
crossword clue
invites us to ponder the countless things that fade, diminish, or cease to be current, all encapsulated within a neat, five-letter package.
Available Answers:
LAPSE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 10 November 2025