Metonym for attention

Eyes on the Prize: Decoding the Metonym for Attention in Crosswords

Crossword puzzles are a delightful brain teaser, but sometimes the clues can feel like a cryptic code. One particularly common type of clue uses a

metonymy

, a figure of speech that substitutes the name of an attribute or an associated concept for the thing itself. Today, we’re diving into the world of metonyms, specifically those related to the concept of

attention

.

Think of it this way: when you say “the White House” you’re actually referring to the executive branch of the US government. The White House is the physical manifestation, the metonymy, standing in for the broader concept.

In the realm of crosswords, clues like “What the audience gives” or “Something a performer needs” often point to a metonymy for attention. These clues can be tricky, but with a little practice and a bit of creative thinking, you can unlock the answer.

To help you crack the code, let’s explore some common metonyms for attention and the ways they might be presented in crossword clues:

“Ears”

: This simple metonymy uses the organ of hearing to represent the act of paying attention. Clues might use phrases like “Musician’s need” or “What a listener provides”.

“Focus”

: Focus implies concentrated attention, making it a strong metonymy for the concept. Clues might use phrases like “What a student must have” or “The key to clear thinking”.

“Gaze”

: This metonymy connects attention to the act of looking. Clues might use phrases like “What a painting demands” or “What a performer hopes for.”

The key to solving these metonymy-based clues is to think outside the box. Don’t get caught up in the literal meaning of the words, instead, look for the underlying concept that the clue is trying to express.

Ready to put your skills to the test? Here’s a crossword clue that uses a metonymy for attention:

[What a speaker craves]

Can you solve it? Leave your answer in the comments below! Happy puzzling!

Available Answers:

EAR.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 26 Jul 24, Friday