There are some crossword clues that simply demand your attention. They leap off the page, not with their difficulty in isolation, but with their sheer elegance, the clever misdirection, and the promise of that satisfying ‘aha!’ moment. These aren’t just definitions to be looked up; they’re miniature puzzles in themselves, little nuggets of wordplay waiting to be unravelled. A recent cryptic crossword clue that had me staring at the grid with a mix of admiration and exasperation – the good kind, mind you – was: “For example, no good rising to incite (3,2)“.
This isn’t just any crossword clue; it’s a prime example of the brilliance that cryptic crosswords offer. For seasoned solvers, it immediately flags a few classic devices. For those newer to the world of cryptic crossword puzzles, it’s a masterclass in how layers of meaning are constructed. Let’s break down how one might approach such a challenging crossword.
First, the parenthetical numbers: (3,2). This tells us the solution is a two-word phrase, with the first word having three letters and the second having two. This structure is a vital piece of information, guiding our search for an answer and helping to confirm potential solutions. Any proposed answer that doesn’t fit this precise letter count, no matter how clever, is immediately ruled out.
Then, we look at the components of the clue itself. “For example.” In a regular, quick crossword clue, “for example” might just be flavour text or an indicator for an abbreviation like “e.g.” or “i.e.” In a cryptic crossword, however, this phrase is almost always a direct hint. It could point to a common abbreviation that
is
part of the answer, or it might suggest a word that literally means “for example.” The setter wants us to think about common synonyms or short forms here, but crucially, they also want us to consider how that might fit into the broader wordplay. It’s a foundational element for many a brilliant crossword clue.
Next up, “no good.” This is another phrase loaded with potential cryptic interpretations. The most common abbreviation for “no good” that frequently appears in crossword puzzles is “NG.” But like all elements in these puzzles, we can’t assume. Could “no good” be part of a larger hidden word? Could it signify something more metaphorical? The beauty of solving crosswords is weighing these possibilities. When you’re tackling a tricky crossword clue, it’s always worth considering the most direct interpretation first, but always keeping an open mind for the unexpected.
Now, we hit “rising.” This is a classic cryptic indicator, and one that often causes a delightful head-scratching moment. In a down clue, “rising” almost invariably means reversal. If a word or phrase is “rising,” you’re likely expected to spell it backward to form part of the solution. But what is rising? Is it “no good” that’s rising? Is it something else entirely? The placement of the indicator is paramount. The art of clue analysis involves pinpointing exactly which part of the wordplay “rising” applies to. It’s one of those essential crossword tips that separates a casual guesser from a dedicated solver.
Finally, we have “to incite.” This is our likely definition or “definiens.” In a cryptic crossword clue, usually, one part of the clue gives you the wordplay (how to construct the answer from the letters provided), and another part gives you the definition (what the answer means). “To incite” gives us a clear target meaning for our (3,2) solution. What words spring to mind that mean “to incite”? Provoke? Stir up? Instigate? These are the semantic pathways we need to explore.
Putting all these elements together for this specific crossword clue – the structure, the indicator for examples, the common abbreviation, the reversal indicator, and the definition – is where the magic happens. It’s a puzzle of parsing, of seeing past the surface reading to the hidden instructions. The process of solving crosswords, especially cryptic ones, is a rewarding intellectual exercise, a delightful dance between language and logic.
So, take a moment with this brilliant crossword clue. Consider all the angles. What happens when you combine the elements of “for example,” “no good,” and “rising” in a way that perfectly leads to a (3,2) phrase meaning “to incite”? The satisfaction when it finally clicks is unparalleled, making every challenging crossword worth the effort. Keep those solving crosswords skills sharp, and enjoy the journey!
Available Answers:
EGGON.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 20 October 2025