The thrill of a perfect solve, the satisfying click as the last letter slots into place – that’s what keeps us coming back to the daily crossword. But then there are those moments, those
crossword clues
that make you pause, tilt your head, and maybe even chuckle at their sheer audacity. Today, we’re diving into one such gem that truly embodies the quirky brilliance of cryptic wordplay.
The clue in question? “Exploitative when mixing turnips with octopi (13)“. Just read that again. Turnips? Octopi? Mixed? And it’s exploitative? It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that immediately sparks curiosity, even a little delightful bewilderment. A 13-letter answer, no less, which means there’s plenty of room for cunning construction and a truly rewarding payoff once you crack it.
What makes this particular
crossword clue
so fascinating isn’t just its peculiar imagery. It’s the challenge it presents. It demands that you look beyond the literal, to embrace the abstract, and to consider how seemingly disparate elements can be woven together into a coherent, clever solution. This isn’t just about knowing your vocabulary; it’s about understanding the art of the crossword setter, their playful mind games, and their mastery of language. It’s a true test of lateral thinking.
Many a seasoned crossword enthusiast knows that some of the trickiest, yet most satisfying,
crossword clues
are those that present an absurd scenario. This one fits that bill perfectly. “Mixing turnips with octopi” paints such a vivid, almost surreal picture that your brain immediately starts trying to find the underlying connection. Is it an anagram waiting to be uncovered? A clever portmanteau? A pun so brilliantly disguised it takes a moment for the lightbulb to flicker on? The beauty is in the exploration.
This specific
crossword clue
exemplifies why we love these puzzles so much. They’re not just about filling in boxes; they’re about the journey of discovery. They challenge our assumptions, force us to think outside the box, and ultimately reward us with that incredible ‘aha!’ moment. If you’ve been wrestling with this one, you’re not alone. It’s designed to make you work, to dig deep into your wordplay toolkit.
So, as you stare down “Exploitative when mixing turnips with octopi (13)“, remember that every great
crossword clue
is an invitation to a linguistic adventure. Take a deep breath, let your mind wander, and consider all the possibilities. We’re here to celebrate the art of the cryptic, and this one is a masterpiece of the genre. Happy solving, fellow word nerds!
Available Answers:
OPPORTUNISTIC.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 29 June 2025