There’s a particular kind of thrill that washes over you when a truly magnificent cryptic crossword clue lands on your grid. It’s that instant spark of intrigue, a narrative woven into just a few words, beckoning you into a delightful labyrinth of wit and wordplay. Today, we’re diving headfirst into one such gem that stopped me in my tracks and demanded my undivided attention:
“Forgetful best man dined out (6-6)“
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At first glance, this crossword clue paints a vivid, almost cinematic scene, doesn’t it? You can almost picture the chaos: a wedding reception, the clinking of glasses, and suddenly, the realization dawns – the best man has, perhaps, left his speech notes at home, or maybe even forgotten the rings entirely. And he’s nowhere to be found, having evidently “dined out” rather than staying for the main event. It’s a beautifully crafted surface reading, creating a compelling little story that immediately engages the imagination, exactly what a brilliant cryptic crossword clue aims for.
But as any seasoned solver of the daily crossword puzzle knows, the best cryptic crossword clues are rarely what they seem on the surface. That charming narrative is often a carefully constructed veil, designed to lead you astray, to distract you from the ingenious hidden mechanics at play. This particular challenge, with its intriguing blend of character and action, is a masterclass in misdirection. It’s a classic example of how a good crossword clue can both entertain and confound in equal measure, making you smile even as you scratch your head.
The beauty of tackling a cryptic crossword clue like “Forgetful best man dined out (6-6)” lies in peeling back those layers. You move beyond the charming story to consider the individual components, pondering how each word, or even part of a word, might contribute to a different, hidden meaning. Is “forgetful” an indicator for some kind of rearrangement? Does “best man” hold a double meaning, or is it fodder for an anagram? And what about “dined out”? Is it a literal definition, or does it cleverly hint at something else entirely, playing on a different sense of the phrase? This is where the true joy of solving crosswords resides – in dissecting the language, exploring synonyms, searching for homophones, and recognizing the ingenious patterns that great clue setters employ.
This specific crossword clue is a fantastic demonstration of the setter’s art, combining everyday language with the subtle complexity that elevates a word puzzle into an intellectual delight. It promises an “aha!” moment that is both satisfying and well-earned, a testament to the power of linguistic manipulation. For those who relish the mental gymnastics required to untangle a challenging cryptic crossword, this clue offers a rich tapestry of possibilities. It’s more than just filling in blanks; it’s about deciphering a secret message, understanding the setter’s wavelength, and celebrating the sheer cleverness embedded within.
So, take a moment. Reread the crossword clue. Let the surface story wash over you, then push it aside. Think about the hidden meanings, the potential for wordplay, the subtle nudges towards a logical, yet unexpected, answer. This is the kind of crossword clue that makes you appreciate the craft, the kind that reminds us why we spend hours happily lost in the pursuit of those elusive solutions. It’s a genuine puzzle challenge that promises a rewarding unraveling.
How would you begin to approach this captivating piece of wordplay? What initial thoughts spring to mind when you encounter such a cleverly constructed crossword clue? The path to discovery is yours to explore.
Available Answers:
ABSENTMINDED.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 11 September 2025