Some crossword clues offer a straightforward path to their solution, a direct definition coupled with a letter count. Then there are those, like “Farm building at good distance (6)“, which invite us into a deeper game of wit and wordplay. This isn’t just a challenge; it’s an opportunity to appreciate the cleverness inherent in crossword puzzle construction.
When first confronted with a crossword clue of this nature, the initial instinct is to break it down into its most obvious components. “Farm building” immediately conjures images of familiar structures: barns, sheds, stables, silos, coops. These are the foundational elements of any farm, and a good starting point for brainstorming. The six-letter constraint is vital here, as it immediately filters out many common farm buildings, pushing us towards more specific or perhaps less obvious candidates. Many common farm structures don’t fit that exact letter count, so we’re already narrowing our focus significantly.
However, the true magic, and the real difficulty, of this particular crossword clue lies in the second half: “at good distance.” This phrase isn’t merely descriptive; it’s the lynchpin for the wordplay, hinting at a nuance that separates a simple definition from a truly rewarding solve. What exactly does “at good distance” imply within the context of a crossword puzzle?
This is where the seasoned crossword solver shifts gears, moving beyond literal interpretations. Does “distance” refer to physical remoteness, suggesting a building that is typically isolated or far removed from other structures? Or could it be a more abstract form of distance, perhaps metaphorical or even a play on words? The word “good” adds another layer of intrigue. Is it genuinely a ‘good’ distance, implying something positive or beneficial? Or is ‘good’ part of a common idiom or phrase that, when combined with ‘distance’, unlocks an entirely different meaning? The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue is its ability to mislead and then enlighten.
Experienced solvers know that crossword setters delight in misdirection. A “farm building” might not just be a barn; it could be something more specific, or even a term that
contains
the idea of a farm building. Similarly, “at good distance” might not describe the building itself, but rather its characteristic, its function, or even a phonetic link. This is a common tactic in designing a difficult crossword clue, where the surface reading is designed to send you down one path while the true meaning lies just beneath.
To tackle such a crossword clue, consider listing six-letter words for farm buildings. Then, for each, ponder how it could possibly intertwine with “distance.” Are there any common phrases or sayings about distance that involve a six-letter word which also happens to be a type of farm building? The setter might be looking for a single word that cleverly encompasses both ideas through a double meaning or a cryptic interpretation. This type of verbal gymnastics is what makes solving a challenging crossword puzzle so engaging.
The journey to solve this crossword clue is less about brute-force dictionary searching and more about understanding the setter’s mind. It’s about exploring the multiple facets of language, from literal definitions to idiomatic expressions and subtle word associations. It demands a flexibility of thought, a willingness to consider the unexpected connections between words. Ultimately, the ‘aha!’ moment for this crossword clue will come from seeing how these seemingly disparate ideas—a farm structure and the concept of distance—are perfectly encapsulated in a single, six-letter word. It’s a testament to the artistry behind effective crossword help and construction.
Available Answers:
GRANGE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Saturday, 27 September 2025