Welcome back, fellow word wanderers and puzzle enthusiasts! There’s a particular thrill that comes with facing a truly perplexing yet poetic crossword clue, isn’t there? It’s the kind of brain-teaser that makes you put down your coffee, lean closer to the page, and really
think
. Today, we’re diving into precisely that kind of masterful wordplay, a crossword clue that stopped me in my tracks and had me admiring the setter’s genius.
The crossword clue in question for today’s post is:
“I retain awkward lack of movement (7)“
.
Just reading it aloud, you can feel the layers, the subtle suggestions, and the clever misdirection that makes a good crossword clue so much fun. This isn’t just a straightforward definition; it’s a mini-narrative, a cryptic whisper waiting to be unravelled. Every word in this crossword clue plays a vital role, and parsing them correctly is key to unlocking the solution.
Let’s start with the opening phrase, “I retain.” The use of the first-person pronoun immediately sparks curiosity. Is the “I” literal, referring to the solver, or is it a common crossword device, perhaps indicating a homophone or a hidden word? The verb “retain” suggests holding onto something, keeping it, or perhaps even experiencing it persistently. It’s the kind of word that can have multiple interpretations in the context of a tricky crossword clue, demanding we consider its various synonyms and implications.
Then we move to “awkward lack of movement.” What a vivid image! “Lack of movement” is straightforward enough, pointing towards stillness, immobility, or perhaps even a pause. But adding “awkward” to the mix elevates this crossword clue from simple description to something far more evocative. What kind of stillness feels awkward? Is it physical discomfort, social unease, or something else entirely? Think about scenarios where being motionless might be perceived as strange, stiff, or even rigid. This specific descriptor is the heart of the challenge in this particular crossword clue, guiding us towards a very specific kind of stasis.
And, of course, we have the crucial length indicator: (7). Seven letters. This constraint is invaluable for narrowing down potential answers once you start generating ideas. It forces us to be precise and disciplined in our word choice, ensuring that our chosen word perfectly fits both the cryptic indicators and the letter count. Many a promising idea has been discarded because it just didn’t fit the specified number of letters in a crossword clue.
This isn’t just any crossword clue; it’s a brilliant example of how setters craft puzzles that engage our minds on multiple levels. It demands not just vocabulary knowledge, but also an understanding of wordplay, an eye for cryptic signals, and a touch of lateral thinking. It’s the kind of crossword clue that makes the entire solving experience so incredibly rewarding when that “aha!” moment finally hits.
So, take a moment with this fascinating crossword clue. Let the words tumble around in your mind. What immediate ideas spring forth? How do the different parts of the clue interact with each other? Don’t rush it; savour the challenge. We’ll be back soon with more insights and a deeper dive into this captivating crossword clue, exploring the clever mechanics behind its construction. Until then, happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
INERTIA.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 24 September 2025