Every dedicated crossword solver knows that peculiar thrill – and occasional frustration – that comes with staring down a seemingly straightforward numerical clue. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that makes you reach for a calculator, only to realize the answer isn’t quite as obvious as it first appears. Today, we’re diving into one such gem that has popped up in various grids, challenging many a seasoned
crossword puzzle
enthusiast: ‘Half of 140 (7)‘.
At first glance, this particular
crossword clue
might seem like simple arithmetic. ‘Half of 140,’ you calculate instantly, and a specific number springs to mind. But then you notice the crucial parenthetical: (7). Seven letters. This immediately signals that we’re not just looking for a digit; we’re looking for a word, or a phrase, that perfectly fits that numerical calculation and the specific letter count. This is where the beauty and occasional complexity of a good
crossword clue
truly shine.
Experienced solvers understand that numerical clues in a
crossword puzzle
are rarely just about the raw calculation. They often involve converting numbers into words, finding synonyms for mathematical concepts, or even exploring homophones or less common phrasings. When faced with a
crossword clue
like ‘Half of 140 (7),’ the first step is always to perform the basic math, but the subsequent steps involve a deep dive into vocabulary and wordplay.
The challenge intensifies when the direct, most common way to express the result doesn’t fit the required letter count. This is a classic
crossword puzzle
technique designed to make you think laterally. You might initially brainstorm common numerical terms, but the seven-letter constraint pushes you to consider alternatives. Are there multiple ways to say the result? Is there a less common but still accurate word that fits the description? Does the clue hint at something broader than just the number itself? These are all vital questions to ask yourself when encountering such a
crossword clue
.
A key strategy for any
crossword clue
with a numerical component and a specified letter count is to think about how numbers are spelled out, common terms associated with specific values, or even less frequently used but perfectly valid ways to express a quantity. Sometimes the
crossword puzzle
setter is looking for a less obvious synonym or a slightly archaic term, designed to test the breadth of your vocabulary. For ‘Half of 140 (7),’ the solution lies in carefully considering all these elements.
Navigating a numerical
crossword clue
requires a blend of mathematical precision and linguistic flexibility. It’s about more than just finding an answer; it’s about understanding the constructor’s intent, the subtle nudges embedded in the clue’s phrasing, and how they’ve leveraged the numerical component to lead you to a specific word. It’s a prime example of how even seemingly simple math can be transformed into a brilliant linguistic puzzle. Keep that seven-letter constraint front and center as you ponder this one. It’s a rewarding feeling when the right word finally clicks into place for a tricky
crossword clue
.
Available Answers:
SEVENTY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Tuesday, 10 June 2025