Welcome, fellow word wranglers and linguistic adventurers! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a truly clever
crossword clue
, one that sits there, seemingly straightforward, yet hiding layers of intricate wordplay and misdirection. Today, we’re diving into a particularly intriguing example that just popped up, promising a delightful challenge for even the most seasoned solvers.
The
crossword clue
in question is:
“Girl taking staple food is deadly sin (7)“
.
Right off the bat, you can feel the gears turning, can’t you? This isn’t your average definition clue. This is the kind of brain-teaser that makes you pause, sip your coffee, and appreciate the art of clue-writing. Let’s unpack some of the elements that make this such a captivating puzzle.
First, we have “Girl.” This is a classic starting point in many cryptic
crossword clues
. It could refer to a specific name, a general term for a female, or even a part of a larger word that sounds like a girl’s name. The beauty of these initial words is their versatility, offering multiple paths for the solver to explore. Is it a direct reference, or is it setting up a clever phonetic trick? This initial ambiguity is part of the fun in any good
crossword clue
.
Next, we encounter “taking.” This word is an action verb, but in the world of
crossword clues
, “taking” can imply many things. It might mean literally picking something up, but it could also suggest inclusion (one word “taking” another within itself), removal, or even a slight adjustment or shift. The way this verb interacts with the other elements of the clue is crucial to unlocking its true meaning. It pushes us to think beyond the literal and consider the many nuances of language.
Then, we hit “staple food.” This phrase immediately brings to mind essential sustenance – rice, bread, potatoes, corn. But stop and think: what does “staple” mean beyond just food? It refers to something fundamental, principal, or a main commodity. Could the clue be playing on the double meaning of “staple” itself, or is it directing us towards a specific, very common food item that might then be combined with other elements? This is where the depth of a well-crafted
crossword clue
truly shines, forcing us to consider every possible interpretation of each word. The commonality of a “staple food” adds a layer of familiarity that can either be a helpful hint or a masterful red herring.
Finally, the dramatic flourish: “is deadly sin.” This phrase is clearly the definition part of the clue, telling us what the seven-letter answer ultimately means. The term “deadly sin” carries significant weight and specific connotations. There are seven well-known deadly sins, and their names are quite distinct. This part of the clue points us directly to the concept we’re aiming for, while the rest of the clue provides the path to constructing that word. The challenge, of course, is marrying the construction (girl + taking + staple food) with this precise definition. It’s a classic cryptic structure – a clever wordplay construction leading to a precise definition.
And, of course, we have the all-important (7) in parentheses, indicating the length of our target word. This number is your best friend when tackling a tough
crossword clue
, acting as a critical filter for all your potential solutions. It helps confirm whether your theories about “Girl,” “taking,” and “staple food” truly combine to form a valid, seven-letter word that fits the “deadly sin” definition.
This particular
crossword clue
is a fantastic example of why we love these puzzles. It requires lateral thinking, a good grasp of vocabulary, and an appreciation for the playful manipulation of language. It’s a rewarding challenge that, once solved, feels incredibly satisfying.
So, take a moment. Ponder this clever
crossword clue
. How do these seemingly disparate elements coalesce into a single, succinct seven-letter answer? It’s the kind of puzzle that sticks with you, encouraging you to look at words in new and interesting ways. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
AVARICE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 22 August 2025