The daily ritual of diving into a fresh crossword puzzle often begins with a scan for those tantalizing, multi-part clues. They stand out, not just because of their multiple components but because they immediately signal a common linguistic structure that many
crossword clues
employ. Today, let’s ponder one such delightful challenge: “Like-minded person (7,6).”
This isn’t just any
crossword clue
; it’s a prime example of how constructors take a common concept, something we understand intimately in everyday conversation, and transform it into a specific lexical challenge. The parenthetical numbers, (7,6), are our first and most vital breadcrumbs. They instantly tell us we’re not looking for a single word, but a two-word phrase. The first word contains seven letters, and the second, six. This structural hint is invaluable in narrowing down the vast ocean of possibilities that “like-minded person” might initially evoke.
What makes “like-minded person” such a fascinating
crossword clue
to unravel? On the surface, the meaning is clear: someone who shares your thoughts, opinions, or values. We all gravitate towards such individuals. But the beauty of
crossword puzzles
lies in their ability to demand the
precise
phrase, the idiomatic expression or common compound noun, that fits both the definition and the specific letter count. It’s not enough to merely understand the concept; you must find the constructor’s chosen, specific linguistic key.
Solving a
crossword clue
like this requires a certain lateral agility of thought. Your brain immediately starts to sift through common phrases that convey shared intellectual or emotional alignment. Is it a formal term? An informal one? Does it relate to friendship, partnership, or perhaps intellectual collaboration? The very nature of “person” also offers an interesting angle; sometimes the second word refers to an individual directly, other times to a collective or a type of association. This subtle nuance is what makes
solving crosswords
so engaging.
The journey to cracking such a clue often involves a methodical approach. You might brainstorm synonyms for “like-minded”: compatible, agreeable, similar in thought. Then, you consider synonyms or related terms for “person”: individual, associate, soul, type. The magic happens when you start combining these possibilities into two-word phrases that fit the (7,6) pattern. It’s a process of elimination and educated guesswork, where the more familiar you are with English idioms and common expressions, the quicker the solution might emerge.
Consider the precision demanded by the “7,6” format. Many phrases might come close to describing a “like-minded person,” but only one will perfectly fit those numerical constraints. This is where the true art of the
crossword puzzle
lies. It forces you to delve deeper into your lexicon, to recall those phrases that are almost subconsciously known but rarely explicitly dissected. The satisfaction derived from correctly identifying such a phrase, slotting it perfectly into the grid, is immense. It’s a testament to both your vocabulary and your ability to think within the structured confines of a
crossword clue
.
This particular
crossword clue
is a fantastic example of the balance constructors strike. It’s accessible because the core concept is universally understood, yet it’s challenging enough to provide that satisfying intellectual stretch that
crossword puzzles
are known for. It encourages you to explore the rich tapestry of English phrases that describe human connection and intellectual alignment. It’s not just about filling squares; it’s about appreciating the cleverness embedded within everyday language, transformed into a delightful
brain teaser
.
So, the next time you encounter a
crossword clue
like “Like-minded person (7,6),” take a moment to appreciate the layers involved. It’s a reminder of how much fun can be had by simply pondering the precise meaning and structure of our words. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
KINDREDSPIRIT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 30 June 2025