There are some crossword clues that, at first glance, appear deceptively simple, yet unveil layers of ingenious wordplay upon closer inspection. The
crossword clue
“Look at pair involved in shopping trip (5)” is a prime example of such a linguistic delight, promising a satisfying unraveling for any dedicated solver. This five-letter challenge masterfully blends a definition with intricate cryptic indicators, inviting us into a world where every word holds potential for revelation or misdirection.
Let’s dissect this intriguing
crossword clue
, starting with “Look at.” In the realm of cryptic crosswords, this phrase often serves as a powerful pointer. It could be a simple instruction to observe, leading to a synonym for seeing or gazing. However, cunning setters frequently employ “look at” as a homophone indicator, hinting that the solution “sounds like” something else entirely. Imagine the possibilities if we’re not just looking, but listening! This common
crossword clue
device adds an immediate layer of ambiguity, forcing us to consider both literal and auditory interpretations right from the start.
Next, we encounter “pair involved in.” This segment of the
crossword clue
is where the puzzle truly begins to tighten its grip, suggesting a more complex construction than a mere definition. “Pair” itself could refer to two of anything – two letters, two items, or even a couple. The phrase “involved in” is a classic cryptic indicator, often signaling inclusion or embedding. It tells us that something is contained within another word or set of letters. Sometimes, “involved in” might even subtly point towards an anagram, asking us to rearrange letters that are “involved” with one another. Unpicking this specific part of the
crossword clue
is crucial, as it directs us toward the hidden mechanics of the solution. Are we looking for two letters inserted into another word, or something more abstract? The genius of a well-crafted
crossword clue
lies in these multiple interpretations.
Finally, we arrive at “shopping trip.” This phrase undoubtedly provides the definition for our five-letter answer. But what aspect of a “shopping trip” is the
crossword clue
specifically referring to? Is it an item one purchases? An action one performs? A place one visits? The experience itself? Solvers must think broadly and creatively about all the facets associated with a retail excursion. The answer must be a five-letter word that directly relates to, or is synonymous with, some core element of a “shopping trip.” This is where a good vocabulary and a knack for conceptual linking truly shine when tackling any challenging
crossword clue
.
Bringing all these elements together requires careful consideration of how “Look at,” “pair involved in,” and “shopping trip” interact. Is the answer a charade, where different parts of the clue contribute distinct segments to the word? Is it a hidden word, cleverly concealed within the surrounding text of the clue itself? Or is it a more sophisticated cryptic definition, where the entire phrase “Look at pair involved in shopping trip” acts as an elaborate, witty description of the answer? Each possibility presents its own delightful challenge, making this
crossword clue
a superb example of a constructor’s art. The satisfaction of connecting these disparate threads into a coherent, elegant solution is what keeps us coming back for more. This specific
crossword clue
is a fantastic brain-teaser, perfectly balancing accessibility with a touch of cryptic brilliance.
Available Answers:
SPREE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Tuesday, 14 October 2025