Cracking the Code: A Deep Dive into the Crossword Clue ‘Gets Close To’
The crossword puzzle. A daily mental workout, a linguistic labyrinth, and for many, a source of delightful frustration. Few things are as satisfying as that
aha!
moment when a seemingly impossible clue suddenly clicks into place, filling a crucial gap in the grid. Today, we’re dissecting a common, yet deceptively intricate, type of clue: “Gets Close To.”
This seemingly straightforward phrase opens a pandora’s box of possibilities. It’s a clue that thrives on nuance, demanding a keen understanding of synonyms, context, and the ever-present crossword trickery. The solver must consider not only the literal meaning of approaching something but also the figurative interpretations it can hold.
One of the first avenues to explore is the realm of proximity. What words directly describe the act of getting physically nearer to something? Think about actions that involve movement in the direction of a target. Are we talking about a gradual advance, a sudden lunge, or a deliberate, measured approach? Synonyms for nearing, converging, and edging closer might be relevant here.
However, the beauty of “Gets Close To” lies in its versatility. It can also describe approximation, both in quantity and quality. Consider scenarios where something is “close enough” or “near enough” to be considered accurate or satisfactory. This introduces the concept of estimates, guesses, and approximations. Are we dealing with a mathematical concept, a measurement, or a subjective judgment?
The figurative interpretation of the clue expands the possibilities even further. Think about emotional closeness – forming relationships, building intimacy, or developing rapport. Words associated with friendship, affection, and connection might hold the key. Perhaps the clue is hinting at empathy, understanding, or even imitation.
Furthermore, “Gets Close To” can imply resemblance or similarity. Is the clue suggesting that something is nearly identical, shares common characteristics, or mimics a particular style? This opens the door to words that denote likeness, analogy, or even forgery.
The length of the answer, indicated by the number of squares in the grid, is paramount. A short answer will likely point towards a simple synonym for nearing, while a longer answer may suggest a more complex phrase or idiom. This is where paying attention to surrounding solved clues becomes crucial, as they can provide vital contextual clues and hint at the answer’s structure.
Finally, don’t overlook the potential for misdirection. Crossword compilers are masters of wordplay, and “Gets Close To” is ripe for trickery. Consider alternative meanings of “gets,” such as understanding or obtaining. Could the clue be hinting at acquiring knowledge, discovering a secret, or reaching a particular level?
The key to unlocking this seemingly simple clue lies in meticulous analysis, a broad vocabulary, and a willingness to think outside the box. Don’t be afraid to explore all the possible interpretations of “Gets Close To,” from physical proximity to emotional connection, from approximation to resemblance. Embrace the challenge, and the satisfaction of cracking the code will be all the sweeter.
Available Answers:
NEARS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Birds of a Feather By Susan Gelfand