Decoding the Crossword: Like this: ESMCLDRBA
Welcome back to the blog, fellow cruciverbalists! Today, we’re tackling a tricky clue: “Like this: ESMCLDRBA.” It’s one of those that really makes you tilt your head and stare at the grid for a good, long while. These cryptic constructions are what make crosswords so captivating, forcing us to think outside the box and consider language in a completely new way.
The first thing that probably jumped out at you is the sheer jumble of letters. It screams anagram, right? But what could possibly be hiding within that seemingly random sequence? Before diving headfirst into anagram solvers, let’s break down the clue itself.
The phrase “Like this” is crucial. It’s not merely descriptive; it’s demonstrative. It’s pointing to something, offering an example. Think about how you might physically represent something “like this.” What actions or concepts come to mind? Could it be illustrating a particular order, a process, or even a specific characteristic?
Consider also the length of the resulting word. This is an invaluable piece of information when confronting any crossword clue, but it’s especially important with anagram-style clues. Counting the letters helps narrow down the possibilities considerably. In this case, we’re looking for a word that’s precisely nine letters long.
Now, let’s think about the context of the crossword itself. What’s the theme, if any? Are there other clues that might offer a subtle hint or lead us down the right path? Sometimes, the theme provides a framework that can illuminate even the most obscure clues. Even if there isn’t a clear theme, look for related entries in the grid. Are there any words that share letters or are conceptually linked to “Like this?”
With anagram clues, a common tactic is to look for common prefixes, suffixes, or letter combinations. Are there any familiar chunks of letters within “ESMCLDRBA” that resonate with you? Even if you can’t immediately form a word, spotting potential building blocks can be immensely helpful.
Think about common word patterns. Are there double letters that might suggest a particular type of word? Does the arrangement of vowels and consonants hint at a specific structure?
Remember, solving crosswords is often about trial and error. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different anagram solvers, and see what possibilities emerge. Even if the initial results seem nonsensical, they might spark a new line of thought or trigger a connection you hadn’t considered before.
Finally, consider synonyms for “like.” What other words can we use to express similarity, imitation, or resemblance? Could the answer be a synonym for “like this,” perhaps one that describes a quality or action demonstrated by the jumbled letters?
The key is to remain patient, persistent, and open to new ideas. “Like this: ESMCLDRBA” is a challenging clue, but with a little strategic thinking, you’ll crack it. Good luck and happy solving! Share your thought processes in the comments below – let’s dissect this crossword clue together.
Available Answers:
SCRAMBLED.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0812-25 NY Times Crossword 12 Aug 25, Tuesday