Welcome back, fellow word sleuths and puzzle enthusiasts! There’s nothing quite like the mental workout a really good crossword clue provides, is there? That moment of squinting at the grid, the gears turning, and then –
ping!
– the satisfying click of a solution falling into place. It’s a feeling that keeps us coming back day after day, eagerly diving into the linguistic labyrinth. Every challenging crossword clue offers a unique challenge, a tiny riddle wrapped in clever language, and the joy of deciphering it is simply unparalleled.
Today, I stumbled upon a gem that perfectly encapsulates the brilliance of cryptic crosswords, one that had me chuckling once I saw the elegant solution. It’s a seven-letter answer, deceptively simple on the surface, yet layered with the kind of clever misdirection we adore in a tricky crossword clue. The clue in question? “Extortioner, one no longer on stage? (7)“.
What a cracker! This isn’t just any old crossword clue; it’s a masterclass in how to combine a straightforward definition with a wonderfully imaginative piece of wordplay. Let’s unpick it, shall we, without giving away the satisfying secret just yet? The first part, “Extortioner,” is our direct definition. We’re looking for a word that means someone who extorts, who uses threats or coercion to get something, usually money. Pretty clear cut, right? This is the anchor that grounds us, giving us a solid starting point for our seven-letter quest when we try to solve a crossword.
But then we hit the second half, and this is where the true artistry of the crossword setter shines: “one no longer on stage?”. Ah, the theatrical twist! This phrase immediately conjures images of performers, actors, singers, dancers – anyone who graces the boards under the spotlight. And the “no longer” adds another intriguing layer. Are we talking about someone who has retired? Someone who has finished a particular performance? Or perhaps someone who
used
to be on stage, but now isn’t? The possibilities start to swirl, making this a truly perplexing crossword clue.
This type of cryptic crossword clue often plays on multiple meanings or sounds. Could “stage” itself be a pun? Or is it more about the
type
of person who would be “no longer on stage”? Think about famous roles, dramatic exits, or the very nature of performance. When a performer is “no longer on stage,” what have they done? What state are they in? The setter’s precision in choosing these words is what elevates a good crossword clue to a great one.
The beauty of a tricky crossword clue like this lies in its ability to make us connect seemingly disparate concepts. We’re bridging the world of crime and coercion with the glitz and glamour – or perhaps, the quiet aftermath – of the theatre. To solve a crossword that features a clue this cunning, you need to think laterally, consider synonyms, antonyms, homophones, and often, the exact phrasing chosen by the setter. It’s a testament to the power of language and the cleverness of these puzzles.
For those of us who love to solve a crossword, these are the moments we live for. It’s not just about filling in the squares; it’s about appreciating the craft, the linguistic gymnastics involved in creating such a puzzle. This particular seven-letter challenge is a fantastic example of a cryptic crossword clue that rewards careful thought and a little bit of creative word association.
So, take a moment. Ponder “Extortioner, one no longer on stage? (7)“. What comes to mind when you combine someone who demands through threats with the idea of a performer whose curtain has fallen? It’s a brilliant crossover, challenging your vocabulary and your ability to spot clever linguistic tricks. These kinds of intriguing puzzles are what make the daily crossword such a joy. Keep digging into that challenging crossword clue, and you’ll find the answer is both elegant and perfectly fitting.
Available Answers:
EXACTOR.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Saturday, 6 December 2025