“Include in a Footnote” – A Tricky Crossword Clue
Ah, the footnote. A humble little note, tucked away at the bottom of the page, often overlooked. But for crossword solvers, it can be a surprisingly tricky clue!
The phrase “include in a footnote” is a great example of a clue that requires a bit of outside-the-box thinking. It’s not about the literal act of adding a note, but rather about the kind of information that
might
be included in a footnote.
This clue could be pointing towards a variety of things: a source, a definition, an explanation, or even a playful comment.
So, how do you crack this crossword clue? Here’s a breakdown of the strategies you can employ:
1. The Literal Approach
Sometimes, the simplest approach is the best. Think about the literal meaning of “include in a footnote.” What kind of information is typically found in a footnote?
Sources:
If the clue refers to a specific piece of information, the answer could be a source used to verify that information.
Definitions:
Footnotes are often used to provide definitions for unfamiliar words or terms.
Clarifications:
If the clue is about a complex idea, the answer might be a clarification or explanation found in a footnote.
2. The Wordplay Approach
Crossword clues often rely on wordplay. Look for any double meanings or puns within the phrase “include in a footnote.”
“Include”
could be a hint at a word that means “to contain” or “to encompass.”
“Footnote”
itself might be a clue to a specific word or concept associated with notes or writing.
3. The Context Approach
The surrounding clues can offer valuable context. What other words or themes are present in the crossword puzzle?
Crossword Theme:
If the puzzle has a theme, the answer might relate to that theme in a subtle way.
Nearby Clues:
Look at the clues intersecting with the one you’re working on. They might give you a clue about the word length or even hint at the type of answer you need.
4. The “Guess and Check” Approach
Sometimes, you just have to throw a few guesses out there and see what fits. If you’re unsure about the answer, start with a common word or phrase that could be found in a footnote.
But remember, always check your answer against the crossing clues to make sure it fits seamlessly into the grid.
Remember, solving crossword clues is about more than just finding the right answer. It’s about the journey of discovery, the satisfaction of unlocking the puzzle, and the joy of using your vocabulary and reasoning skills to crack the code.
Available Answers:
CITE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 4 Sep 24, Wednesday