Crossword Clue: Scratched, Not Burned? A Brain Teaser!
Ah, the crossword puzzle. That delightful daily (or weekly, or monthly!) brain workout that leaves you simultaneously exhilarated and slightly cross-eyed. Today’s challenge? A particularly sneaky clue that’s had me scratching my head (ironically, given the puzzle’s theme!). We’re looking for something that suffers damage from scratches, but remains surprisingly unscathed by flames.
Intrigued? Let’s dive in. The clue itself plays on a clever contrast. We immediately think of things easily damaged by physical abrasions – a delicate vase, a pristine car, a polished table. But fire? That’s a different beast altogether. Think about the materials involved. What items might suffer irreparable harm from a simple scratch, yet withstand the intense heat of a fire with relative impunity?
To solve this, we need to consider the properties of different materials. Hardness, of course, is a key factor. Some materials are incredibly hard, resisting scratches but potentially melting or changing form under intense heat. Others might be relatively soft, easily scratched, yet possess a high melting point or other properties that allow them to survive fire.
The answer isn’t immediately obvious. It requires a shift in thinking, a move beyond the usual suspects. It’s a clue that rewards lateral thought, encouraging you to consider not just what’s
easily
scratched, but what’s
uniquely
susceptible to scratching while demonstrating a surprising resilience to burning.
Don’t forget to consider the context of the crossword itself. Are there any intersecting clues that might offer a hint? Sometimes, a seemingly unrelated clue in a different part of the puzzle can provide crucial information. Look for patterns, synonyms, and wordplay.
This isn’t just about finding the answer; it’s about the
process
of solving. It’s about flexing your mental muscles, pushing past the initial assumptions, and embracing the satisfying “aha!” moment that comes with cracking a particularly tricky clue. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let the puzzle work its magic. Good luck! Let me know in the comments what you think the answer might be – but try to resist revealing it! I want to keep the challenge alive for everyone!
Remember to use the relevant keywords when searching online to find similar crossword clues. Good luck!
Available Answers:
CDS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 3 Jan 25, Friday