Hello, fellow word wranglers and grid gurus!
There are certain phrases that just
feel
like they belong in a crossword puzzle, aren’t there? They’re the kind that pop up, often just a few letters short, leaving you to plumb the depths of your idiom knowledge. Today, let’s talk about one such classic: “For Pete’s __!”
This isn’t just any old turn of phrase; it’s a quintessential exclamation, brimming with exasperation, surprise, or sometimes, just a touch of pleading. Its very nature makes it a fantastic candidate for a crossword clue, because it leverages not just vocabulary, but cultural understanding. When you encounter this as a crossword clue, it’s a test of whether you’re familiar with common colloquialisms that have stood the test of time.
You’ve likely heard it in movies, read it in books, or perhaps even uttered it yourself in moments of peak frustration or astonishment. It’s concise, impactful, and instantly recognizable. The challenge, of course, comes in the blank, prompting solvers to recall the precise word that completes this well-worn expression. A well-crafted crossword clue relies on this kind of immediate recognition, even when parts are obscured.
It’s a beautiful example of how everyday language can be transformed into a brain-teasing crossword clue. This type of entry isn’t about obscure vocabulary; it’s about accessing that shared linguistic database we all carry. The beauty of solving a crossword clue like “For Pete’s __!” lies in that ‘aha!’ moment when the missing piece clicks into place, not because you’ve looked up an esoteric word, but because you’ve tapped into a deeply ingrained idiom.
So, next time you’re faced with a crossword clue that presents this familiar yet incomplete phrase, take a moment to appreciate its elegant simplicity. It’s a nod to the power of idiom, perfectly encapsulated within the confines of a few squares. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
SAKE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Tuesday’s Daily By Dan Kammann & Zhouqin Burnikel / Ed. Patti Varol