Money paid for a hand

Cracking the Code: “Money paid for a hand“

This week’s crossword puzzle has thrown a curveball at me, leaving me scratching my head over a particularly tricky clue. It’s a classic case of the answer being right there, just hidden behind a clever wordplay disguise. Let’s dive in and see if we can crack this one together!

The clue in question is:

“Money paid for a hand.”

This clue instantly sparks an image of a handshake, perhaps a deal being struck. However, the crossword puzzle world isn’t always so straightforward. We need to think outside the box, consider various interpretations, and explore the multiple ways this phrase can be interpreted.

Let’s break down the clue and analyze its potential meaning:

“Money paid”

: This clearly suggests a financial transaction, something exchanged for value.

“For a hand”

: This is where the ambiguity lies. What does “a hand” refer to in this context? Is it a literal hand, or something more metaphorical?

We need to consider multiple possibilities:

A literal hand

: Could this relate to a physical hand, perhaps in the context of labor or craftsmanship? Imagine a skilled artisan, a craftsman, or a laborer being paid for their work.

A metaphorical hand

: Could “a hand” represent something abstract, like help, assistance, or support? Perhaps someone is paid for their expertise, advice, or guidance.

We also need to consider the wordplay aspect of this clue. Is there a hidden pun or wordplay that’s being used?

By carefully dissecting the clue and considering various interpretations, we can start to narrow down the possible answers. Remember, crossword puzzles are all about finding the hidden connections and unraveling the wordplay.

Let me know in the comments below what your initial thoughts are on this clue and any possible answers you’ve come up with. Together, we can conquer this crossword puzzle challenge!

Available Answers:

ANTE.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 14 Jul 24, Sunday