Some crossword clues arrive like a perfectly constructed riddle, designed to make you pause, reread, and ponder. “Measure taken by gourmet repulsive (5)” is precisely that kind of tantalizing brain-teaser. It’s a masterful blend of apparent contradiction and subtle suggestion, characteristic of the best wordplay found in any daily crossword puzzle.
Right away, the word “measure” presents a delightful ambiguity. In the world of crosswords, such a term can be a goldmine for multiple interpretations. Is it a unit of quantity – an imperial measurement, perhaps, or a metric one? Could it refer to an action, something one
does
to gauge or assess? Or does it hint at a step taken, a policy, or a precaution? Each possibility opens up a different avenue for exploration, crucial when trying to crack a challenging crossword clue. Keep these diverse meanings in mind as you approach the rest of the puzzle.
Then we encounter the fascinating pairing: “gourmet repulsive.” This is where the genius of the crossword clue truly shines. A gourmet is someone discerning, someone who appreciates the finest in culinary art, suggesting deliciousness and refinement. To then immediately associate this with “repulsive” creates a sharp, intriguing contrast. This isn’t just a simple definition; it’s a playful twist, forcing the solver to think beyond the obvious. How could something related to a gourmet be considered repulsive? Is it a trick of context? An ironic statement? Or is “repulsive” an indicator of a different kind of wordplay entirely, perhaps hinting at an anagram or a reversal? For those who love the intricacies of a cryptic crossword clue, this clash of ideas is a sign of clever construction.
The numerical hint, (5), is your most tangible constraint. Five letters. This immediately filters out countless possibilities that might spring to mind when considering “measure,” “gourmet,” or “repulsive” individually. It narrows the field significantly, making the task less daunting, but no less satisfying once solved. When you have a strong contender, always double-check if it fits this letter count perfectly. This numerical anchor is a fundamental part of solving any crossword clue effectively.
To unravel this particular crossword clue, you’ll need to employ a range of typical crossword-solving strategies. Are we looking for a word that acts as a synonym for “measure” but has a connotation of being “repulsive” when associated with “gourmet”? Or is “repulsive” an anagram indicator, suggesting that the letters in “gourmet” (or part of it, perhaps combined with “taken”) need to be rearranged? Sometimes, cryptic clues hide words within the very text of the clue itself, or they might use homophones or charades. The beauty of such a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its ability to be interpreted in multiple ways until the lightbulb moment reveals the single, perfect fit.
The key is to deconstruct each part of the phrase and then reassemble them, looking for that spark of connection. Think laterally. What common kitchen terms, units of measure, or food-related words are five letters long and could, with a bit of wordplay, bridge the gap between discerning taste and something unsavory? The best crossword clues often rely on words having multiple meanings, and this one certainly leverages that linguistic flexibility.
Cracking a crossword clue like “Measure taken by gourmet repulsive (5)” isn’t just about finding the right word; it’s about appreciating the cleverness behind its construction. It’s the thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of piecing together disparate elements into a coherent whole. For anyone who relishes a good mental workout, this type of crossword puzzle offers a delightful challenge, pushing you to think creatively and embrace the wonderful world of wordplay. Keep experimenting with different angles, and the solution will eventually reveal itself, providing that unique sense of triumph only a challenging crossword clue can deliver.
Available Answers:
METRE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 25 September 2025