There are some phrases that just pop up in crosswords, aren’t there? Phrases that carry a specific weight, a logical implication, or a subtle instruction that can either illuminate the path to the solution or send us spiraling into a delightful state of head-scratching. Today, we’re diving into one such gem: “It follows that…”
This isn’t just any old string of words; “It follows that…” is a cornerstone of deductive reasoning, a statement that signals a logical consequence, an inevitable conclusion drawn from preceding information. When you encounter this in a crossword, especially as part of a definition or an instruction within the puzzle, it’s a clear signal to shift your mental gears into a mode of inference. Understanding this pivotal phrase is key to unlocking many a tricky crossword clue.
Think about it: in its most fundamental sense, “It follows that…” means “therefore,” “consequently,” or “as a result.” It establishes a cause-and-effect relationship, indicating that what comes next is a logical extension of what has just been stated or implied. For the seasoned solver, recognizing this logical connector in a crossword clue can be like finding a hidden signpost. It directs you to consider implications, to deduce rather than simply define. It’s a challenge to your analytical skills, pushing you to connect the dots in a way that’s uniquely satisfying.
The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue often lies in its precision, and phrases like “It follows that…” exemplify this. They’re not just filler; they are integral to the meaning and often to the wordplay itself. Cryptic crossword enthusiasts, in particular, will appreciate how such a phrase can form the bridge between the wordplay and the definition, or even hint at the structure of the answer. It might suggest an answer that is a direct outcome, a synonym for consequence, or perhaps a term from logic or philosophy itself. The trick is to discern whether the phrase is part of the direct definition, implying a particular type of answer, or if it’s a more abstract signal to the solver’s deduction process.
Consider the vocabulary that often orbits this concept. Words like “result,” “outcome,” “deduction,” “implication,” “conclusion,” and “inference” are all part of the same logical family. A crossword clue featuring “It follows that…” might be asking for one of these direct synonyms, or it could be prompting you to think of something that
is
a result of a given premise. It’s a subtle dance between literal meaning and conceptual understanding, a true test of your verbal agility and your capacity for logical thought. Each time you face a crossword clue incorporating such a phrase, you’re engaging in a miniature philosophical exercise, albeit one with a very tangible, grid-filling reward.
Mastering the nuances of logical connectors can significantly boost your ability to conquer any crossword clue. It’s about more than just knowing definitions; it’s about understanding the relationships between words, ideas, and concepts. So, the next time you spot “It follows that…” staring back at you from a crossword clue, take a moment. Don’t just look for a definition; look for the logical thread, the inevitable conclusion, and let your deduction lead you to that perfect, satisfying fit in the grid. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
ERGO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Universal Freestyle 192 By Lin Josephson