Squeezing Out a Win: Decoding “Like Some Margins of Victory”
Crossword puzzles, those intricate grids of black and white, offer a unique mental workout. They challenge our vocabulary, test our general knowledge, and force us to think laterally, all in the pursuit of filling every square with the correct letter. Some clues are straightforward, offering a clear path to the solution. Others, however, require a bit more… finesse. They demand we consider multiple angles, parse subtle nuances, and maybe even consult a thesaurus or two.
Today, we’re tackling one such clue: “Like some margins of victory.” This type of clue falls into the category of definition clues, but it’s far from simple. The phrase “margins of victory” immediately conjures images of sporting events, elections, or any contest where a winner emerges. But what
kind
of margins are we talking about?
The key to unlocking this particular clue lies in the word “like.” This indicates that we’re not looking for a direct synonym for “margin of victory,” but rather an adjective describing a
quality
that some margins of victory possess. We need to think about the different ways a victory can be achieved.
Consider the possibilities. A victory could be resounding, a crushing defeat for the opponent. It could be narrow, a nail-biting finish that leaves everyone on the edge of their seats. It could be expected, a foregone conclusion based on skill or resources. It could be surprising, an upset that defies all odds.
The crucial aspect of this clue is that “some” margins of victory possess the characteristic we’re searching for. This rules out any descriptors that would apply to
all
victories. For instance, while all victories involve a margin, saying all margins of victory are “existent” would be too broad and obvious for a crossword clue.
Furthermore, the length of the answer, dictated by the grid itself, plays a significant role. We need an adjective that fits the provided number of spaces. A longer answer suggests a more descriptive or nuanced term, while a shorter answer points toward something more concise and common.
To further refine our search, let’s consider the context of the crossword puzzle itself. Are there any other clues in the grid that might offer a hint, either directly or indirectly? Do any intersecting answers share letters with the potential solution? The more connections we can make within the grid, the closer we get to the correct answer.
Think about the language often used to describe close contests. Is there a term that implies a small difference, a near-tie, or a hard-fought battle? Brainstorm synonyms, explore related concepts, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Crossword clues often rely on clever wordplay and unexpected associations.
Ultimately, solving a crossword clue like “Like some margins of victory” is a process of elimination, deduction, and a little bit of luck. By carefully analyzing the wording of the clue, considering the length of the answer, and examining the surrounding grid, we can narrow down the possibilities and arrive at the satisfying “aha!” moment. Good luck cracking this crossword clue!
Available Answers:
SLIM.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Tuesday’s Daily By Kelly Richardson / Ed. Patti Varol