That moment arrives in every
daily crossword
– a
crossword clue
that feels deceptively simple, yet holds a depth that makes you pause. It’s not about obscure trivia or complex anagrams; sometimes, the most challenging
crossword puzzle
entries are those that demand absolute precision, an exact word to fit a stark, unequivocal definition.
Today, we’re looking at just such a
crossword clue
: “Extreme scarcity of food (6)“. On the surface, the meaning is clear, perhaps even grim. We all understand the concept of a severe lack of provisions. But the brilliance of a well-crafted
crossword clue
lies in its ability to pinpoint
the
word, the single six-letter solution that encapsulates such a profound condition with perfect accuracy.
This isn’t merely about knowing synonyms. Many words might come to mind when considering “scarcity of food” – hunger, dearth, want. Yet, the six-letter constraint, combined with the emphatic “extreme,” narrows the field considerably. It compels us to move beyond general ideas and home in on the precise term that professional
puzzle solving
demands. Are we looking for a state? A condition? A historical event? The nuances matter when you’re trying to crack a stubborn
word puzzle
.
Seasoned
crossword puzzle
enthusiasts know this sensation well. You grasp the essence of the
crossword clue
, but the specific word, the one with precisely six letters, remains just out of reach. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that often appears midway through a grid, designed to make you think, to perhaps even consult a thesaurus if you’re not adverse to a little extra help when
solving crosswords
. The answer isn’t something you can guess lightly; it requires a direct hit.
Such
word puzzles
remind us that
crossword clues
aren’t just about vocabulary; they’re about understanding the precise shade of meaning, the specific context, and the subtle linguistic connections that transform a general concept into a singular, undeniable word. This particular six-letter entry demands a term that is universally understood to convey a truly dire situation concerning sustenance. It’s a powerful word, one that carries significant weight, and finding it is a testament to both linguistic understanding and a keen eye for the exact fit within the constraints of the grid.
When faced with a
crossword clue
like this, the strategy is often to consider common words associated with the core concept, then filter them by length. What six-letter words relate to a severe absence of food? It’s a process of elimination and precise recall, a hallmark of engaging with truly satisfying
word games
. Unlocking this type of
crossword clue
brings a deep sense of accomplishment, proving once again that the most direct definitions can sometimes be the most rewarding challenges in the world of
crossword puzzles
.
Available Answers:
FAMINE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 30 June 2025