The thrill of a challenging crossword clue is something only fellow solvers truly understand. That moment when you stare at a seemingly impenetrable phrase, your mind racing through possibilities, trying to unlock its secrets. Today, we’re diving into one such brilliant, head-scratching example that has been making the rounds: “Fanatical bishop in surprise attack (5).”
This isn’t just any old crossword clue; it’s a masterpiece of misdirection and clever wordplay, characteristic of the best cryptic crosswords. For anyone who loves the mental gymnastics of solving crosswords, this one presents a delightful puzzle. Let’s break down why this particular clue is so compelling, without, of course, giving away the satisfying solution.
The first thing that jumps out when you encounter this crossword clue is the word “bishop.” Immediately, our brains spring to two primary interpretations. Is it the ecclesiastical figure, the religious leader often associated with churches and dioceses? Or are we talking about the piece on the chessboard, moving diagonally across the board, capable of sudden, unexpected shifts? This dual meaning is a classic technique in crafting an engaging cryptic crossword clue, designed to send you down multiple investigative paths.
Then there’s the adjective “fanatical.” This word injects a powerful sense of intensity and extreme dedication. How does “fanatical” modify either a church dignitary or a chess piece? A fanatical bishop in the religious sense might be overly zealous, perhaps even aggressive in their beliefs. A fanatical chess bishop? That’s harder to picture directly, but it evokes a sense of relentless, strategic movement, perhaps an unwavering focus on a particular target. The beauty of a well-constructed crossword clue lies in how these descriptive words subtly nudge your thoughts without giving too much away.
Finally, we arrive at “in surprise attack.” This phrase strongly suggests suddenness, an unexpected move, an assault, or an unforeseen maneuver. It’s an active, dynamic element that demands a word embodying swift action. When you combine “fanatical” with “surprise attack,” you’re looking for something that is both intense and sudden.
Now, the critical piece of information for any crossword solver: the “(5)” at the end. This tells us the answer is a five-letter word. This constraint is invaluable, narrowing down the field of possibilities significantly. It forces us to consider how “fanatical bishop” and “surprise attack” can coalesce into a single, five-letter entity.
The genius of this crossword clue lies in how it weaves these disparate elements into a cohesive whole, allowing for multiple layers of interpretation before the definitive “aha!” moment. It’s a perfect example of why so many of us are drawn to the intellectual challenge of solving crosswords. You’re not just guessing; you’re deciphering, connecting, and inferring.
So, take another look at “Fanatical bishop in surprise attack (5).” Ponder the various meanings, consider the emotional weight of “fanatical,” and the suddenness implied by “surprise attack.” Think about how these words might combine, perhaps through a hidden definition or a clever play on words, to form a five-letter solution. The satisfaction of cracking such a brilliant crossword clue is immense, a testament to the power of language and logic. What are your initial thoughts on this formidable crossword puzzle entry? Share your strategies for tackling such layered clues!
Available Answers:
RABID.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Saturday, 6 December 2025