Some crossword clues simply sing to you, a harmonious blend of definition and wordplay that makes the ‘aha!’ moment practically inevitable. Others, however, present a delightful, almost mischievous challenge, requiring a deeper dive into their construction. Today, we’re dissecting one such brilliant example: “Indicator of a half-price deal, in effect.” This isn’t just a straightforward definition; it’s a prime example of how a well-crafted crossword clue can make you think in multiple dimensions, teasing out layers of meaning.
At first glance, the phrase “Indicator of a half-price deal” seems relatively simple. We immediately conjure images of sale signs, discount percentages, or common retail terminology. What sort of ‘indicator’ could it be? A symbol, a word, an abbreviation? Your mind might race through terms like “SALE,” “50% OFF,” or even phrases associated with reductions. The key here, as with many clever crossword clues, is to not settle for the most obvious interpretation too quickly. The setter is almost certainly guiding you down a path that looks simple on the surface, only to reveal a subtle twist.
The real meat of this crossword clue, and indeed where the mental gears truly start grinding, lies in those final two words: “in effect.” This seemingly innocuous phrase is a staple of cryptic and general knowledge crossword puzzles, often signaling a crucial element of wordplay. “In effect” can transform a clue entirely. It might suggest an anagram, where the letters of a word or phrase are rearranged to form the solution. It could hint at a homophone, where the answer sounds like another word. Or, more subtly, it could imply that the preceding words should be interpreted in a less literal, more abstract, or even figurative sense to ‘effect’ the solution. When you encounter “in effect” in a crossword clue, it’s a clear signal to widen your analytical net.
So, let’s combine these elements. We’re looking for something that indicates a half-price deal, but that indication only becomes apparent or accurate “in effect.” This demands a careful consideration of synonyms for ‘indicator’ that go beyond the surface. Is it a
type
of deal? A
consequence
of a deal? Or perhaps a phrase that, when applied or understood in a certain way, perfectly describes a half-price situation? The brilliance of such a crossword clue is its ability to make you re-evaluate common knowledge. What are the common ways we express something being halved or discounted by fifty percent? Think about not just the
words
themselves, but the
concepts
they represent when applied.
Solving this particular crossword clue requires a methodical approach. First, break down “Indicator of a half-price deal.” Brainstorm every possible word, phrase, or symbol associated with discounts, sales, and reductions by half. Then, turn your attention to “in effect.” How could those initial ideas be transformed, twisted, or reinterpreted by this phrase? Does it suggest a common saying, a less obvious synonym, or perhaps a clever charade where parts of words come together? The length of the answer, if available, would be your next vital piece of information, allowing you to filter your brainstormed list.
This crossword clue isn’t just about finding the right word; it’s about appreciating the artistry of crossword construction. It’s a delightful brain teaser that rewards those who look beyond the obvious. It reminds us why we love solving crosswords – for the thrill of the chase, the clever misdirection, and that unparalleled moment of triumph when a complex web of words suddenly clicks into place. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
BOGO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0901-25 NY Times Crossword 1 Sep 25, Monday