There are some crossword clues that just instantly resonate, don’t they? They tap into a shared human experience, a universal understanding that crosses generations and cultures. When such a crossword clue appears, it’s not just a linguistic puzzle; it’s a little slice of life, expertly condensed into a handful of words. Today, we’re looking at precisely one such gem: “Like looks from mom and dad, say.”
This particular crossword clue is a beautiful example of how constructors craft a vivid image with incredible economy of language. It immediately conjures up a familiar scenario, isn’t that right? The mere mention of “mom and dad” instantly evokes a rich tapestry of emotions, memories, and unspoken understandings. What kind of looks are we talking about? The ones that need no words, the kind that can convey an entire conversation, a reprimand, or even profound affection, all without a single syllable uttered. This kind of evocative imagery is what makes the best crossword clue so utterly satisfying to solve.
Solving a crossword clue like this requires more than just a vast vocabulary or a list of synonyms. It demands a certain intuition, an ability to read between the lines, to grasp the nuance and subtext embedded within the brief phrase. The “say” at the end of the crossword clue often hints at a common expression, a familiar turn of phrase, or perhaps a colloquialism that perfectly encapsulates the feeling. It’s a subtle nudge from the constructor, pointing you towards an answer that might be more about an idiom or a shared cultural reference than a direct definition.
We’ve all been on the receiving end of these silent communications. A raised eyebrow, a slight tilt of the head, a piercing gaze – parental looks are a language all their own. They carry weight, convey expectation, and often communicate a volume that a spoken lecture never could. They are lessons, warnings, approvals, and sometimes, just a quiet acknowledgment, all rolled into one. The genius of this crossword clue lies in its ability to distil such a complex and deeply personal experience into a concise, yet utterly complete, prompt. It asks you to name the
essence
of that wordless message.
For seasoned solvers, this type of crossword clue is often a welcome challenge, a moment to pause and reflect on the cleverness of the constructor. For those newer to the world of crosswords, it can be a fantastic learning experience, showcasing how clues often play on our shared understanding of the world, rather than just strict dictionary definitions. It encourages you to think laterally, to consider common phrases and the subtle meanings they carry. It teaches you that a crossword clue isn’t always about the obvious. Sometimes, it’s about the implied, the understood, the feeling that resonates.
So, as you ponder this magnificent crossword clue, think about those moments. Think about the power of a glance, the unspoken messages passed between parent and child. It’s a testament to the power of observation, of memory, and of language itself, to capture such a universal truth in so few letters. The right answer will feel not just correct, but perfectly
apt
, slotting into place with an almost audible click of recognition. That’s the magic of a truly great crossword clue. It’s more than just a puzzle; it’s an invitation to connect with language on a deeper, more personal level.
Available Answers:
INHERITED.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0626-25 NY Times Crossword 26 Jun 25, Thursday