Okay, here’s an introduction to a crossword blog post about the clue “Mostly guarded about our bravery (7)“:
Decoding the Grid: A Close Look at “Mostly Guarded About Our Bravery”
Welcome back to the blog, fellow cruciverbalists! Today, we’re tackling a particularly intriguing seven-letter clue that’s been circulating amongst the crossword community: “Mostly guarded about our bravery.” It’s a classic example of how a crossword setter uses precision wordplay to lead us down a winding path, forcing us to think outside the box and consider multiple layers of meaning before the solution reveals itself.
This clue presents a multi-faceted puzzle. The phrase “mostly guarded” immediately suggests that we’re not dealing with the
entirety
of something associated with guarding, but rather a truncated version. It’s a pointer toward an abbreviation, or perhaps the removal of letters from a longer word. This sets a vital constraint on our thinking, preventing us from focusing on complete definitions or synonyms for protection.
The inclusion of “about” often signals a container clue or a reversal. The word we’re seeking is likely nestled
inside
another word, or it is a word read backwards. It’s a common trick used to make a clue more challenging and interesting. It requires us to identify a potential core word, and then consider what other element might be wrapping around it.
And then we have “our bravery.” This is the core of the clue’s meaning. Bravery, courage, valor – all synonymous concepts that could unlock the puzzle. The word “our” suggests that the bravery might be possessed or expressed by a group, or might be something we all universally associate with bravery. It calls for a dive into the realm of synonyms of bravery. More complex, it might even imply that bravery is hidden within something seemingly innocuous.
The real skill in solving this clue is piecing these elements together. It’s about playing with the potential meanings of “guarded,” recognizing the impact of “mostly,” understanding the role of “about,” and digging deep into the synonyms and connotations of “bravery.”
Consider what is connected to bravery, and then ask yourselves, what might be guarding that concept, but only partially? What common association or depiction of bravery can be manipulated to give us the answer.
Ultimately, solving a clue like “Mostly guarded about our bravery” is a rewarding experience. It requires patience, logical reasoning, and a willingness to explore different avenues of thought. By carefully dissecting the clue’s wording and considering the various potential interpretations, we can slowly but surely narrow down the possibilities and arrive at the satisfying “Aha!” moment.
Happy puzzling, and feel free to share your thoughts and strategies in the comments below! What aspects of the clue tripped you up? What lines of reasoning did you explore before hitting upon the answer? I’m always eager to hear your insights and perspectives.
Available Answers:
COURAGE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Tuesday, 19 August 2025