The thrill of a truly clever crossword clue is unmatched, isn’t it? That moment when a seemingly obtuse phrase suddenly clicks, revealing not just one answer, but unlocking an entire section of the grid. This week’s puzzle delivers just such a masterpiece with the crossword clue: “Go over the top, or a hint to 17-, 23-, 37-, and 48-Across.” This isn’t just any ordinary crossword clue; it’s a beacon, a thematic signpost guiding us through the intricate pathways of the daily crossword.
When you encounter a crossword clue like this, especially one that explicitly states it’s “a hint to” multiple other entries, you know you’re in for a treat – and a challenge. This type of clue is affectionately known as a “revealer” in the crossword community. Its primary purpose isn’t to give you a straightforward definition; instead, it offers a conceptual framework that binds together several other themed answers within the puzzle. The beauty lies in its dual nature: a standalone phrase that also holds the key to deeper understanding.
Let’s break down what makes this particular crossword clue so compelling. First, we have the phrase itself: “Go over the top.” On its own, this could suggest several meanings. It might imply being excessive, crossing a physical boundary, or even making an extraordinary effort. Each of these interpretations holds potential, and the savvy solver will keep them all in mind as they tackle the related entries. The initial ambiguity is part of the fun, a red herring that eventually leads to clarity once the larger theme is understood.
The second, and perhaps most critical, part of this crossword clue is “or a hint to 17-, 23-, 37-, and 48-Across.” This tells us exactly where to focus our investigative efforts. Your strategy here should be to work on filling in those numbered Across answers first, if possible. Don’t force them; sometimes you’ll need a few crossing Down clues to get started. But as you begin to populate 17-Across, 23-Across, 37-Across, and 48-Across, keep the revealer clue in the back of your mind. Look for commonalities, shared elements, or a recurring pattern in those answers. The phrase “Go over the top” will somehow relate to, or be exemplified by, the content of those entries.
For instance, consider what “over the top” might physically or metaphorically represent. Do the themed entries contain words that literally sit “on top” of something else? Do they describe actions that exceed a normal limit? Are they phrases where one word is conceptually “above” another? The magic of a well-crafted crossword clue like this is its ability to play on multiple layers of meaning, often leading to a delightful “aha!” moment when the connection finally becomes clear.
Solving a puzzle with a strong thematic revealer is incredibly satisfying. It transforms the experience from merely filling in blanks to deciphering a mini-mystery. It rewards not just vocabulary and general knowledge, but also pattern recognition and conceptual thinking. When you finally piece together how 17-, 23-, 37-, and 48-Across all tie back to “Go over the top,” you’ll feel like a true crossword master. So, dive in, enjoy the process, and revel in the brilliance of this captivating crossword clue. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
PUTONASHOW.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Friday’s Daily By Ariana Borut / Ed. Patti Varol