Welcome back, fellow word nerds and puzzle enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving headfirst into a
crossword clue
that, at first glance, might seem like a straightforward definition, but upon closer inspection, reveals a delightful layers of cryptic ingenuity. It’s the kind of brain-tickler that makes the daily
crossword clue
challenge so utterly addictive.
The clue in question is:
“Many come over to game of bingo (5)“
.
Isn’t that a beauty? Five letters, a seemingly simple concept, yet packed with potential for misdirection and clever wordplay. This is a classic example of what makes deciphering a good
crossword clue
such a rewarding experience. It beckons you to look beyond the obvious, to untangle the threads of meaning woven within.
For those new to the world of cryptic crosswords, or perhaps just dipping their toes into the more intricate side of the daily puzzle, this
crossword clue
serves as a fantastic learning opportunity. Cryptic clues, unlike their simpler “quick” counterparts, typically have two components: a definition of the answer and a piece of wordplay that also leads to the answer. The trick, of course, is discerning which part is which, and then solving the linguistic riddle. The number in parentheses – (5) in our case – is always your trusty letter count, a vital piece of information that narrows down your options considerably.
Let’s dissect this intriguing
crossword clue
piece by piece, without, of course, giving away the grand solution. Our goal here is to equip you with the tools and thought processes to arrive at it yourself.
First, consider the definitional component. In “Many come over to game of bingo (5),” which part sounds like it’s trying to define a five-letter word? “Game of bingo” stands out as a strong candidate. When you think of “game of bingo,” what other related games or activities come to mind that are five letters long? Brainstorming synonyms or closely associated concepts is often a crucial first step when tackling any definitional
crossword clue
. Don’t be afraid to jot down a few possibilities, even if they don’t immediately feel like a perfect fit. The act of writing them down can sometimes spark a connection to the wordplay.
Now, let’s turn our attention to the wordplay, the more enigmatic part of this
crossword clue
: “Many come over.” This is where the magic (and occasional frustration) of cryptic crosswords truly lies. Each word here could be a crucial component of the puzzle.
Think about “Many.” In cryptic crosswords, common words like “many” often have specific cryptic interpretations. Could it be a synonym for a shorter word that fits into the overall charade? Or perhaps it’s an indicator of quantity that directly relates to the answer? Keep an open mind about its role.
Then we have “come over.” This phrase is particularly juicy for a cryptic
crossword clue
. “Come over” could suggest a reversal (where letters are read backward), an anagram indicator (telling you to jumble the letters of another word), or even a charade indicator (where one word “comes over” or is placed next to another). It’s crucial to consider the various types of wordplay mechanisms common in crosswords. Is it a hidden word, a homophone, or a deletion? The beauty of a well-crafted
crossword clue
like this is its ability to hint at multiple possibilities, guiding you down a path that ultimately converges on a single, satisfying solution.
As you ponder “Many come over,” try to see if it acts as an instruction for manipulating the letters derived from “Many,” or if it’s a component in itself, perhaps forming part of the answer when combined with other elements.
Solving a
crossword clue
like “Many come over to game of bingo (5)” isn’t just about finding the right word; it’s about appreciating the artistry of the clue-setter. It’s about the journey of deduction, the delightful “aha!” moment when the definition and the wordplay finally click into place. So, take your time, consider all the angles, and enjoy the intellectual exercise this brilliant
crossword clue
offers.
What are your thoughts on this challenging
crossword clue
? Did you spot the connection quickly, or did it make you scratch your head for a bit? Share your solving process (without revealing the answer, of course!) in the comments below. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
LOTTO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 11 August 2025