There are those moments in a crossword solver’s journey when a particular clue lands with a satisfying thud, instantly sparking a multitude of possibilities, yet refusing to give up its precise answer without a fight. Today, we’re delving into just such a compelling brain-teaser that recently graced our daily grids: the deceptively simple
crossword clue
“More cunning.”
On the surface, it seems straightforward enough. “Cunning” itself is a word rich with nuanced meaning, conjuring images of cleverness, slyness, and a certain strategic intelligence. But add that seemingly innocuous “More” to the front, and the challenge immediately deepens. This isn’t just about finding a synonym; it’s about navigating the comparative form, seeking out the perfect fit that not only aligns with the core meaning but also adheres to the specific grammatical structure demanded by the puzzle.
When encountering a
crossword clue
like this, the initial mental scan often races through the usual suspects: words like sly, artful, shrewd, wily, or astute. Each of these carries a facet of “cunning.” But then comes the critical second step: how does that “more” translate? Are we looking for a word ending in -er? Or perhaps a phrase involving “more” plus an adjective that itself perfectly encapsulates the heightened degree of cunning? This is where the true art of crossword solving comes into play, sifting through the layers of possibility.
The beauty of a well-crafted
crossword clue
like “More cunning” lies in its ability to simultaneously be accessible and elusive. It encourages us to think beyond the most obvious lexical links. “Cunning” can imply a negative connotation – a devious or deceptive quality. But it can also denote a sharp, astute intelligence, a masterful ability to navigate complex situations. Which shade of meaning is the puzzle setter leaning towards? This ambiguity, far from being frustrating, is precisely what makes the hunt so engaging. It demands a careful consideration of context, a deep dive into vocabulary, and often, a bit of intuition about the setter’s style.
For seasoned solvers, this type of comparative
crossword clue
also prompts a quick mental check of common suffixes and word patterns. Does the answer fit a standard comparative form? Or is it a less common, perhaps more archaic, term that perfectly encapsulates the essence of heightened craftiness? The joy of cracking such a clue isn’t just in filling in the squares; it’s in the journey of exploration, the mental gymnastics required to pinpoint the exact word that the setter had in mind. It’s a testament to the richness of the English language and the cleverness of puzzle construction.
So, as you ponder this intriguing
crossword clue
, consider the full spectrum of what “more cunning” might imply. It’s a delightful example of how a simple adjective, when put to work in the intricate world of crosswords, can spark a truly rewarding linguistic adventure. Ready to sharpen your wits and uncover the precise answer to this captivating challenge? Let’s delve deeper into the layers of this fascinating clue.
Available Answers:
SLIER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Universal Crossword – Universal Freestyle 191 By Ryan Mathiason
0720-25 NY Times Crossword 20 Jul 25, Sunday