The thrill of a truly masterful crossword clue often lies in its ability to transcend a simple definition. It’s the moment a puzzle’s brilliance unfolds, revealing layers of cleverness that elevate the entire solving experience beyond mere vocabulary recall. Some of the most satisfying triumphs come from those meta-clues, the ones that don’t just ask for an answer, but provide an instruction, a guiding principle that ties the whole grid together. Today, we’re unraveling just such a gem – a central concept that serves as both a standalone solution and a key to understanding several other significant entries.
This particular crossword clue stands out for its elegant duality. At first glance, it appears to be a straightforward request for a synonym to “leading.” Many a seasoned solver has been lulled into a false sense of security by such an apparent simplicity in a crossword clue. But for those who venture deeper, the latter half of the clue signals a far more intricate puzzle at play. It’s here that the true genius of the constructor shines, transforming a simple adjective into a structural linchpin for the entire puzzle.
The phrase “when parsed differently” is your neon sign, flashing a warning that the initial interpretation of our core crossword clue isn’t the whole story. It demands a mental shift, an exercise in linguistic deconstruction. The answer to this pivotal crossword clue, once found, isn’t merely a static word in the grid; it’s a dynamic prefix, a foundational element that, when broken down, reveals its true purpose. Imagine finding that perfect word, placing it in its spot, and then realizing its components, when split, act as a vital precursor. This ‘parsed differently’ component is crucial to cracking the puzzle’s full design.
And what does it precede? The crossword clue explicitly states, “what can lead into the starts of the answers to the starred clues.” This is where the meta-puzzle truly blossoms. Each starred entry in the grid suddenly takes on new meaning, not just as an individual crossword clue solution, but as part of a larger, interconnected web. The answer to our central crossword clue isn’t just “leading”; it’s the
thing
that leads, literally attaching itself to the beginning of other significant answers, forming new, recognizable phrases or words. It’s a delightful chain reaction, where one expertly solved crossword clue unlocks a cascade of understanding across the entire puzzle.
The satisfaction of piecing together such a mechanism is unparalleled for any crossword enthusiast. It’s not just about filling squares; it’s about appreciating the artistry, the layered thought process behind every brilliant crossword clue. This is the kind of design that makes you pause, smile, and marvel at the constructor’s ingenuity. It redefines what a crossword clue can be, transforming it from a standalone challenge into a thread that weaves through the very fabric of the puzzle, inviting you to see the bigger picture.
So, as you tackle this grid, keep that central guiding crossword clue in mind. Understand its dual nature – both a descriptor for “leading” and a literal leader for others. The ‘aha!’ moment when you connect these dots is what makes solving such a richly rewarding experience. Prepare to have your perceptions of a crossword clue wonderfully stretched and your appreciation for clever wordplay deepened.
Available Answers:
AHEADOF.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Wednesday’s Daily By Michael Torch / Ed. Patti Varol