“Fool would be sick to make attack (6)” – just reading that brings a certain glint to the eye of any dedicated crossword enthusiast. This isn’t just any
crossword clue
; it’s a prime example of the delightful, devious wordplay we’ve come to love (and occasionally curse!) in cryptic crosswords. For many, a single glance might evoke a feeling of “What in the world…?” And that, my friends, is precisely where the fun begins.
Every seasoned solver knows that a compelling
crossword clue
like this isn’t about literal interpretation. It’s about peeling back layers of meaning, identifying clever misdirections, and recognizing the subtle signals that point towards the elusive six-letter answer. The number in parentheses, of course, is our steadfast guide, telling us exactly how many letters we’re aiming for. In the realm of cryptic puzzles, this seemingly simple digit often provides the crucial constraint that helps unlock the linguistic gymnastics involved.
Today, we’re diving deep into a particular
crossword clue
that recently stumped quite a few – and entertained many more. “Fool would be sick to make attack (6)” presents a fascinating challenge. Is “fool” an anagram indicator, a definition in disguise, or perhaps a component of the wordplay itself? Does “sick” refer to ill health, or is it a homophone for something else entirely? And what about “make attack”? Is that our direct definition, or are we looking at something far more nuanced?
The beauty of a well-crafted
cryptic crossword clue
lies in its ability to combine multiple elements – a definition, an anagram, a charade, a hidden word, or even a reversal – into one succinct phrase. Our task, as diligent solvers, is to unravel these interwoven threads. When confronted with such a masterful piece of cryptic artistry, the initial instinct might be to mentally run through synonyms for ‘fool,’ ‘sick,’ or ‘attack.’ However, the magic of the cryptic format lies in looking beyond the obvious.
This particular
crossword clue
showcases the brilliance of setters who can take everyday words and transform them into a mind-bending puzzle. It’s a reminder that solving crosswords is not just about vocabulary; it’s about lateral thinking, pattern recognition, and an appreciation for the English language’s playful side. Whether you’re a newcomer grappling with your first cryptic or a seasoned veteran who tackles the daily
crossword puzzle
with ease, this clue offers a rich vein for exploration.
We’ll dissect the potential interpretations of each word, explore common cryptic devices that might be at play, and discuss how the setter guides us (or misguides us!) towards the correct solution. Remember, the journey to the answer is often as rewarding as discovering the answer itself. So, grab your virtual pen and paper, settle in, and let’s embark on this linguistic adventure to demystify this intriguing
crossword clue
. Understanding the mechanics behind it will not only bring immense satisfaction but also sharpen your skills for future
crossword puzzle
challenges. This is what makes solving crosswords such a fulfilling mental exercise!
Available Answers:
ASSAIL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 11 June 2025