Cracking the Code: “It Measures Things (5)” – A Deep Dive into Five-Letter Possibilities
Welcome, fellow crossword enthusiasts! Today’s puzzle has presented us with a classic, deceptively simple clue: “It measures things (5).” At first glance, it seems like a straightforward fill, but the beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its potential for misdirection. A seemingly obvious answer might be exactly what the setter
doesn’t
want you to write in.
The (5) designation, of course, is our most crucial piece of information. This tells us definitively that the solution is a five-letter word. It’s a comforting reassurance in the often-confounding world of cryptic clues. But even with that knowledge, we need to proceed with caution and consider a variety of angles.
Let’s break down the components of the clue itself. “It measures things” is, at its core, a functional definition. We need to think of objects, concepts, or instruments designed to quantify or assess something. This is where the brainstorming begins. We need to tap into a broad range of measurement categories: length, weight, volume, time, and even abstract qualities like pressure or intensity.
One approach is to consider everyday tools. What instruments are commonly used to measure physical quantities? Think about the kitchen, the workshop, the laboratory. Jot down all possibilities, regardless of whether they immediately seem like a perfect fit. Remember, crosswords often rely on common knowledge, but sometimes venture into more specialized or technical areas.
Another tactic is to explore synonyms for “measure.” Words like gauge, scale, meter, and even assess can spark related ideas. Consider what these related words imply. “Gauge” might lead us to think about pressure or thickness. “Scale” could suggest weight or even a system of ranking. “Meter” might conjure up images of utility readings or musical timing.
Don’t disregard more abstract interpretations either. While less common, the clue could be playing on a figurative sense of “measure.” Perhaps it’s referencing a standard, a benchmark, or even a unit of currency used as a means of assigning value. Crossword setters are notorious for twisting language in creative ways.
It’s also important to remember the context of the overall crossword. What are the intersecting answers? Do any letters already present in the grid provide potential starting points or ending points for our five-letter word? Leveraging these cross-references can significantly narrow down the possibilities.
Consider the tense of the clue. “It measures things,” not “it measured things,” suggests a present-tense, ongoing function. This eliminates anything that’s obsolete or primarily historical. We’re looking for something that continues to be used for measurement today.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, be patient. Resist the temptation to immediately jump to the most obvious answer. Crosswords are designed to be challenging, and the satisfaction of cracking a tough clue comes from the process of thoughtful deduction. Take your time, consider all the angles, and let the solution gradually reveal itself. The thrill of solving this “It measures things (5)” clue is within reach!
Available Answers:
ITEMS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 5 June 2025