Every seasoned solver of daily crossword puzzles knows that feeling: you’re cruising through the grid, letters filling in like clockwork, then you hit a wall. Sometimes it’s a fiendish pun, other times an obscure piece of trivia. But frequently, the most deceptively simple crossword clue can bring your momentum to a screeching halt. Today, we’re diving into one of those seemingly innocuous prompts that, upon closer inspection, reveals itself to be a delightful example of clever clue-writing: “Like paper napkins.”
At first glance, this crossword clue seems straightforward. Paper napkins – we all know them, we all use them. They’re ubiquitous, a staple of picnics, fast food, and casual dining. But what
are
they like? The beauty, and sometimes the frustration, of such a crossword clue lies in the sheer number of adjectives that could potentially apply. Are they cheap? Yes. Are they convenient? Absolutely. Are they plentiful? Often. Do they serve a specific purpose? Indubitably.
This type of descriptive crossword clue requires us to think beyond the immediate and consider the
primary
defining characteristic that sets paper napkins apart from their more formal, fabric counterparts. What is the fundamental, core quality that most distinguishes a paper napkin from, say, a linen one? Crossword setters often hone in on that singular, most salient feature, the one that makes the object what it is, rather than just one of its many attributes. It’s about finding the word that fits perfectly, not just semantically, but within the strictures of the crossword grid and the setter’s intended meaning.
When approaching a crossword clue like “Like paper napkins,” it’s helpful to list all the qualities that spring to mind. Then, consider the context of the puzzle itself. Is it a themed puzzle? Are there other clues hinting at a certain category of words? While we don’t have that context here, thinking about word length, common crossword answer patterns, and synonyms for those initial descriptive words is a crucial step in solving crosswords. What’s the most
common
and
defining
adjective for paper napkins that would be well-known to a broad audience of puzzle solvers?
This particular crossword clue is a fantastic exercise in precision. It’s about distilling the essence of an everyday item down to a single, perfect word. It encourages us to look past the obvious and consider the functional, the material, and the societal role of the item in question. It’s the kind of crossword clue that, once solved, brings a satisfying “aha!” moment, making you appreciate the craft of crossword construction all the more. It’s a reminder that even the simplest objects can hide a clever linguistic puzzle, waiting to be unearthed by diligent puzzle solvers. So, next time you encounter a seemingly simple crossword clue, take a moment to truly ponder its depths; you might be surprised by what you discover.
Available Answers:
ONE-USE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0913-25 NY Times Crossword 13 Sep 25, Saturday