The pursuit of the perfect word in a crossword puzzle is a delightful intellectual sport, and some
crossword clues
stand out, not for their obscurity, but for their deceptively straightforward appearance. Take for instance, “More expensive.” At first glance, it seems simple enough, yet it’s precisely these seemingly direct prompts that can lead even seasoned
crossword puzzle
solvers down a rabbit hole of possibilities, especially when faced with the constraints of a grid.
This particular
crossword clue
immediately draws our attention to the comparative form. The word “more” signals that we’re looking for an adjective that denotes a higher degree of cost or value than something else. It’s not just “expensive”; it’s
more
so. This isn’t merely a grammatical detail; it’s a crucial piece of information for precise
clue analysis
. Are we looking for a word ending in “-er”? Or a word that inherently implies a higher grade or cost when compared to a standard? The English language is rich with nuances, and
daily crossword
creators revel in exploiting them.
When encountering “More expensive” in your
crossword puzzle
, your mind might first jump to common synonyms for “expensive”: costly, pricey, dear. But then the “more” kicks in. Is it “costlier”? “Pricier”? Or perhaps a term that carries a more inherent sense of elevated value without needing a direct comparative ending? This is where the art of
puzzle solving tips
comes into play. You begin to consider the number of letters. If it’s a four-letter slot, your options drastically shrink compared to a seven-letter one. This constraint is often your best friend, helping to eliminate many plausible but ultimately incorrect guesses.
Another angle for this specific
crossword clue
is the subtle difference between something being simply “more costly” versus something being “more exclusive” or “of higher quality,” which often correlates with a higher price point. Crossword constructors love to play on these associations. Is the clue aiming for a straightforward comparative, or is it hinting at a characteristic that
results
in something being more expensive? This is the kind of thoughtful
wordplay
that elevates a good puzzle.
Consider the context within the broader
crossword puzzle
. Are there other finance-related
crossword clues
? Perhaps terms associated with luxury goods, premium services, or economic inflation? Sometimes, the theme of the surrounding entries can provide invaluable context, subtly guiding you toward the correct answer for a perplexing
crossword clue
. Without this context, “More expensive” can remain tantalizingly just out of reach, forcing you to rely purely on your vocabulary and understanding of comparative forms.
The beauty of
solving crosswords
lies in this iterative process of deduction, elimination, and sometimes, a sudden flash of insight. For a
crossword clue
like “More expensive,” the key is often to think beyond the most obvious comparative forms and consider words that inherently convey a higher status or cost. It’s a testament to the fact that even the simplest-sounding
crossword puzzle clues
can hide layers of meaning, demanding a precise and often creative linguistic leap. Unlocking such a clue is not just about knowing the right word; it’s about appreciating the cleverness embedded within the puzzle itself, making each successful solve a small victory.
Available Answers:
PRICIER, DEARER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Washington Post Crossword -Wednesday’s Daily By Dan Kammann & Zhouqin Burnikel / Ed. Patti Varol
0608-25 NY Times Crossword 8 Jun 25, Sunday