Today’s
crossword clue
presents a delightful challenge, a concise yet cunning phrase that demands both direct interpretation and a keen eye for wordplay. The
crossword clue
is “Insect on stand is cause of annoyance (7)“. Right from the start, that (7) tells us our target word is seven letters long, a crucial piece of information for any
crossword solver
.
Let’s dissect this intriguing
crossword clue
. First, we have the definitional phrase: “is cause of annoyance”. This is the part of the clue that gives us the direct meaning of the word we’re seeking. When you think of a “cause of annoyance,” what words immediately spring to mind? Something bothersome, a persistent irritation, perhaps something that gets under your skin. Jot down a few seven-letter synonyms for this concept; it’s a great starting point for any
crossword puzzle
.
Now, for the wordplay – often the most captivating aspect of a
cryptic crossword clue
. We have “Insect on stand.” This phrase is where the real fun begins and where different interpretations can lead you down various delightful rabbit holes.
Let’s take “Insect” first. In the world of crosswords, “insect” can be a straightforward hint. Think about common insects: ants, bees, flies, moths, gnats. Often,
crossword clues
use a shortened form of these, or even just a letter or two that represents them. So, what short forms of insects might fit into a seven-letter word, especially when combined with other elements? Consider the common three-letter insects, or even just the initial letters of others. This is a classic
crossword solver
technique – looking for common abbreviations or parts of words.
Next, we have “on stand.” This is where the clue really shines its cryptic light. “Stand” can have multiple meanings. It could refer to a physical structure – like a market stand, a music stand, or even an ice cream stand. If it’s the latter, what word might that suggest in a cryptic context? Cryptic clues often use common phrases to hint at parts of words.
“Stand” could also be interpreted as a verb: to stand, to tolerate, to endure. Are there synonyms for these actions that could fit into our seven-letter answer? Or perhaps “stand” refers to a position, a stance, or even a particular posture. Each of these interpretations opens up new avenues for how the wordplay might operate. The word “on” usually acts as a connector, suggesting placement – either one element placed before another, or perhaps even one element contained within another, depending on the subtlety of the clue.
So, how do “Insect” and “on stand” combine to form a “cause of annoyance”? Are we looking for an insect
sitting on
a type of stand? Or is the “stand” part of a word that then has an “insect” element added to it? The beauty of a good
crossword clue
lies in these layers of meaning. You might combine a common two-letter insect with a three-letter word for a stand, then see how those parts build towards your seven-letter definition.
As you mull over this
daily crossword
challenge, consider all the possibilities. Is the “insect” a literal insect, or a letter representing one? Is the “stand” a specific type of structure, a verb, or something else entirely? The true joy of solving a
crossword puzzle
like this comes from exploring these options, testing out combinations, and allowing the brilliance of the clue setter to slowly unfold. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
BUGBEAR.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 23 November 2025