Tick-Tock, What’s Taking So Long? Unpacking This Tricky 5-Letter Crossword Clue
The crossword bug has bitten again, and this time it’s a particularly persistent little critter. We’re staring down a five-letter word, a seemingly simple constraint, yet the clue is proving surprisingly elusive: “Long time to end of run (5).”
This seemingly straightforward phrase packs a punch of ambiguity. “Long time” is often a red herring in the crossword world, frequently pointing towards something other than a direct measurement of temporal duration. It could be a euphemism, an adjective modifying another word, or a cleverly disguised synonym.
Then we have “end of run.” This could imply a physical finish line, the cessation of an activity, or even the last portion of something consumed. The possibilities seem endless, adding layers of complexity to our search. The “(5)” of course tells us how long the word is.
Let’s break down some potential avenues of thought.
Thinking About Time:
If “long time”
is
related to a duration, what five-letter words fit the bill? Perhaps something that implies a lengthy period? We must consider potential synonyms that are more oblique than a direct numerical value.
Decoding “Run”:
The word “run” is, in itself, a master of disguise. Consider its multifaceted nature:
Physical run:
Could this refer to a race, a journey, or the operation of a machine? Think about words associated with these scenarios and how they might be curtailed.
Figurative run:
Are we dealing with a “run” of bad luck, a “run” on a bank, or a theatrical “run?” How does one bring these metaphorical runs to a close?
Computer run:
In computing, a “run” refers to the execution of a program. Is the answer something relating to stopping or completing a program?
Wordplay is Key:
Crossword clues often rely on clever wordplay. Don’t immediately discount the possibility of anagrams, homophones, or other linguistic tricks. Could there be a hidden message embedded within the clue itself? Deconstructing the phrase into its component parts may reveal a hidden layer of meaning.
Context is King:
Of course, the surrounding answers and the theme of the puzzle (if any) can be invaluable clues. Are there any recurring patterns or topics that might influence the solution? Sometimes the answer lies not within the specific clue, but in its relationship to the broader puzzle.
Keep an Open Mind:
The beauty of crosswords lies in their ability to challenge our assumptions. Don’t get fixated on the first interpretation that comes to mind. Be prepared to discard your initial hypotheses and explore alternative perspectives. The answer might be something completely unexpected.
So, we are left scratching our heads. This deceptively simple clue offers a range of possibilities. “Long time to end of run (5)” demands careful consideration, creative thinking, and a willingness to explore the less obvious paths. Keep racking your brain, consider every angle, and may the crossword gods be with you!
Available Answers:
YEARN.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 19 September 2025