Stumped by That Tricky Crossword Clue? “Gait Faster Than a Walk But Slower Than a Canter”
Ah, the crossword puzzle. A delightful brain teaser, a satisfying challenge, and sometimes… a source of utter frustration. We’ve all been there, staring blankly at a clue, our pen hovering hesitantly above the grid. Today’s puzzle presents one such head-scratcher: “Gait faster than a walk but slower than a canter.”
This clue plays on our knowledge of equestrian terms and the subtleties of equine movement. It’s not a common word in everyday conversation, making it a particularly challenging clue for those outside the equestrian world. But fear not, fellow crossword enthusiasts! We’re here to dissect this clue and explore the reasoning behind it, providing you with the tools to crack this particular nut.
Let’s start by breaking down the clue’s components. The key phrases are “gait,” “faster than a walk,” and “slower than a canter.” Each of these phrases provides crucial context.
“Gait” immediately narrows down our search to a specific type of movement, specifically the manner of walking, running, or moving on foot. We’re not looking for an animal, a place, or an object; we’re looking for a
style of locomotion
.
“Faster than a walk” eliminates slower forms of movement, such as a crawl or a shuffle. We need something more energetic, something with a quicker pace.
“Slower than a canter” further refines our search. A canter is a relatively fast three-beat gait, often described as a smooth, rhythmic gait faster than a trot but slower than a gallop. Therefore, the answer must represent a gait falling between a walk and a canter in terms of speed.
Think about different gaits. Consider the descriptions associated with these gaits—their rhythm, their speed, and their overall appearance. The clue relies on your understanding of the relative speeds and characteristics of these different equine movements.
Consider the context of the crossword itself. Are there any other clues that might offer a hint? Sometimes, related clues can help unlock the answer to a seemingly impossible clue. Look for words or phrases that might connect to horses, riding, or equestrian activities. Crossword puzzles often feature themes, and understanding the theme can be pivotal in solving difficult clues.
Remember, the solution lies in carefully considering the relative speeds of the different gaits. By carefully analyzing each component of the clue, you should be able to narrow down the possibilities until you reach the correct answer. Good luck and happy solving! Let us know in the comments if you cracked it! We’d love to hear your thought process.
Available Answers:
TROT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 30 Dec 24, Monday