Pondering the Puzzling Crossword Clue: “Has Legs”
Few phrases in the English language carry as much hidden depth and playful misdirection as “Has legs.” When this seemingly simple three-word phrase emerges as a
crossword clue
, it’s an immediate signal to seasoned solvers: prepare for a delightful linguistic puzzle that goes far beyond the obvious. It’s a classic example of how a
crossword clue
can challenge our assumptions and invite us into the clever mind of the puzzle setter.
At first glance, one might be tempted to think literally. What objects
have legs
? A table, a chair, an animal, perhaps a tripod. And while crosswords sometimes do lean into the literal, especially with more straightforward definitions, a
crossword clue
like “Has legs” almost always points toward something more intriguing. This is where the true beauty of the English language, and the art of the
crossword clue
, truly shines.
The genius of “Has legs” as a
crossword clue
lies in its rich idiomatic meaning. In common parlance, when something “has legs,” we understand it to possess staying power, viability, or a strong likelihood of continued existence or success. A story that “has legs” is one that circulates widely and persists over time, perhaps even gaining credibility. A business idea that “has legs” is one that is sustainable and promising. The
crossword clue
leverages this figurative sense, asking solvers to think beyond the physical and delve into the conceptual.
This particular type of
crossword clue
is a favorite among setters because it allows for elegant misdirection. It’s short, punchy, and utterly common, yet its deeper meaning transforms it into a formidable challenge. The setter isn’t just testing your vocabulary; they’re testing your understanding of idioms, your ability to think laterally, and your readiness to abandon the literal for the metaphorical. Successfully unraveling such a
crossword clue
provides a deeply satisfying “aha!” moment that defines the joy of puzzling.
So, how does one approach a
crossword clue
like “Has legs“? The key is to acknowledge the literal interpretation, but swiftly pivot to the figurative. Ask yourself: in what non-physical contexts do we use the word “legs” or the phrase “has legs”? What abstract qualities or outcomes does it imply? Is it about longevity, influence, persistence, or perhaps even believability? Considering these broader implications is crucial for unlocking the intended answer. It’s about exploring the full semantic range of the phrase as a
crossword clue
.
These types of wordplay-heavy
crossword clues
are what make daily puzzles so endlessly engaging. They transform a simple grid of empty squares into a playground for the mind, where words dance with multiple meanings and phrases hide surprising depths. They remind us that language is a living, evolving entity, full of nuances and clever turns. The next time you encounter a deceptively simple
crossword clue
like “Has legs,” take a moment to appreciate the linguistic gymnastics at play. It’s a masterclass in how a few words can encapsulate a wealth of meaning, offering both a challenge and a rewarding insight into the cleverness of crosswords. Understanding the layers behind such a
crossword clue
is often more fulfilling than simply finding the answer itself.
Available Answers:
LASTS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0809-25 NY Times Crossword 9 Aug 25, Saturday