Man-eating menace

The Man-Eating Menace: A Crossword Clue That Will Have You Chewing Your Pencils

Ah, the dreaded crossword clue. You know the one – the seemingly simple phrase that sends you into a spiral of confusion, forcing you to stare blankly at the grid, your pen hovering precariously over the empty squares. Today’s challenge? “Man-eating menace.”

This clue is a classic example of a cryptic crossword clue, demanding not only knowledge but also a bit of lateral thinking. The word “menace” immediately suggests a dangerous creature, but the “man-eating” component adds a sinister layer. Are we talking about a wild beast? A mythical creature? Or perhaps something more insidious altogether?

Let’s break down this clue further:

The surface meaning:

“Man-eating menace” literally describes something that eats humans. This gives us a starting point – we’re looking for an animal or a creature that is known for its predatory nature.

The cryptic element:

The clue might be playing with words or concepts. For instance, “menace” could be a hidden clue to a word that sounds similar, or it could be a metaphorical representation of something else entirely.

With this in mind, start by exploring the realm of carnivores – lions, tigers, sharks, crocodiles. Are any of these known for preying on humans? Don’t forget to think outside the box – mythology and folklore often feature man-eating creatures. Could this be a clue to a mythical beast?

The answer to this crossword clue lies in unraveling the hidden meaning within the phrase “man-eating menace.” So, put on your detective hat, sharpen your pencil, and prepare to embark on a word hunt. Good luck!

Available Answers:

OGRE.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –NY Times Crossword 1 Aug 24, Thursday
NY Times Crossword 1 Aug 24, Thursday