Unpacking “Kind of average“: A Crossword Clue That’s Anything But
“Kind of average.” On the surface, this crossword clue seems straightforward, almost mundane. Yet, for many seasoned solvers and newcomers alike, it’s the kind of phrase that makes you pause, scratch your head, and wonder if you’re missing something obvious or if the puzzle setter is just playing a clever game. This particular crossword clue, deceptively simple, often hides a deeper layer of wordplay or a less common interpretation of a familiar term. It’s a prime example of how everyday language can be twisted and turned into a delightful linguistic puzzle.
When we encounter the word “average,” our minds typically jump to arithmetic means, medians, or modes. We think of statistics, of central tendencies, of something neither exceptionally good nor exceptionally bad. But crosswords, especially cryptic ones, thrive on ambiguity and multiple meanings. Could “average” here be referring to a different kind of average? Perhaps a less mathematical sense, or even a specific historical or niche term that defines a particular
type
of average? The beauty of a challenging crossword clue lies in its ability to force us to expand our mental dictionaries beyond the everyday. This isn’t just about finding a synonym; it’s about understanding the many facets of a word.
The phrase “kind of” is the real workhorse in this crossword clue. It’s not just filler; it’s a crucial modifier that completely reshapes how we approach the word “average.” Does “kind of” mean “somewhat,” implying a slight variation or degree? Or, more likely in the world of crossword puzzles, does it mean “a type of” or “a category of”? This distinction is paramount. If it means “a type of,” then we’re not looking for something that is
sort of
average, but rather a
specific classification
of average. This linguistic nuance is precisely what makes such a seemingly simple crossword clue surprisingly complex and rewarding to decipher. It nudges us away from the obvious synonyms and towards a more specific, perhaps less common, noun.
Puzzle constructors are masters of misdirection. They love to present a familiar phrase in a way that suggests one path while subtly pointing to another. A crossword clue like “Kind of average” leverages this. It invites you to think of synonyms for “mediocre” or “ordinary,” while the real answer might lie in a specialized field, a historical context, or even a less frequently used synonym of “average” that perfectly fits the “type of” interpretation. Always consider the possibility that a common word has an obscure meaning or that a two-word phrase implies a compound answer. This is where a good dictionary and a broad general knowledge become invaluable tools for any aspiring crossword solver. Every time you face a tough crossword clue, remember that the setter is likely trying to lead you down a primrose path before revealing the true, elegant solution.
When tackling a crossword clue like this, it pays to step back from the most immediate associations. Think about different disciplines: science, history, finance, even informal slang. Does “average” have a specific meaning in, say, chemistry, or an archaic use that fits the pattern? Often, the answer to a tricky crossword clue lies just outside the conventional box. It might be a technical term, a part of a common idiom, or even a play on homophones. The “kind of” modifier strongly suggests a noun or a specific category, rather than an adjective describing a state. This shifts the search dramatically from “mediocre” to “a specific type of mathematical mean,” for instance, or something even more esoteric.
Ultimately, solving a crossword clue like “Kind of average” is incredibly satisfying. It’s not about brute-forcing synonyms; it’s about discerning the subtle intent of the clue. It’s about recognizing the specific kind of “average” the setter is hinting at, guided by the precise phrasing. This journey from initial bewilderment to the eventual “aha!” moment is what makes the daily crossword puzzle such a captivating mental exercise. So next time you encounter a seemingly innocuous crossword clue that makes you pause, remember that the true challenge often lies in the artful way language is manipulated. Keep thinking, keep exploring, and the solution will eventually reveal itself. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
EARNED RUN.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0626-25 NY Times Crossword 26 Jun 25, Thursday