Welcome back, fellow word sleuths, to another dive into the fascinating world of cryptic definitions and clever wordplay! Every so often, a
crossword clue
pops up that makes you pause, scratch your head, and then marvel at its concise brilliance. Today, we’re zeroing in on one such gem: “Narrow part of cheek (4)“.
At first glance, this particular
crossword clue
seems straightforward enough. It’s anatomical, it’s short, and it specifies a particular region. But as any seasoned solver knows, brevity in a
crossword clue
often masks a deeper layer of subtlety. Four letters – that’s a concise little package, isn’t it? It means there’s no room for extraneous synonyms or lengthy descriptions. The word is precise, and your task is to pinpoint it within that tight constraint.
What makes this particular
crossword clue
a fantastic mental workout? Well, for starters, when you think of a ‘cheek,’ a few prominent ideas immediately spring to mind. You might picture the fleshy side of the face, perhaps the area associated with smiles, blushes, or even a good pinch from an aunt. But the key here isn’t just “cheek”; it’s the “narrow part.” This modifier is crucial. It directs your focus away from the broad expanse and towards a more specific, perhaps less obvious, section that defines a boundary or a feature.
Many a challenging
crossword clue
relies on common words used in slightly uncommon contexts, or perhaps less frequently referenced anatomical terms. This is where your vocabulary and powers of observation truly get tested. Are we looking for a synonym for a specific facial feature, or is it a descriptor that, when paired with ‘cheek,’ forms a distinct, recognized area? Often, the simplest words are the hardest to retrieve when they’re cloaked in a clever
crossword clue
. Don’t fall into the trap of overthinking, but don’t underthink it either. It’s a delicate balance!
When tackling a
crossword clue
like this, it’s helpful to consider the typical patterns. Is it a straightforward definition, perhaps a less common synonym? Or is there a touch of lateral thinking required, hinting at a specific contour or line rather than a bulky mass? With only four letters, every letter counts, and every potential synonym needs to fit that tight constraint. Think about other parts of the face or body that have “narrow parts” – for instance, the “bridge” of the nose. While not directly related, this thought process can sometimes help unlock the way a similar anatomical
crossword clue
might be constructed.
Could the “narrow part” refer to a specific contour, a line, or a distinct feature that defines a boundary or a division on the cheek? The beauty of a well-crafted
crossword clue
lies in its ability to hint without overtly stating, to guide your thoughts down a particular path without revealing the destination until the very last moment. Consider the common names for parts of the face. Do any of them fit a “narrow” description and are only four letters long? Sometimes, it helps to visualize the area in question. Imagine someone’s face – where might a “narrow part” of the cheek be located or referred to? This visualization can sometimes jog your memory, pulling forth the precise term that the
crossword clue
is looking for.
This “Narrow part of cheek (4)“
crossword clue
is an excellent example of how a seemingly simple definition can provide a rewarding challenge. It tests not just your vocabulary, but your ability to parse precise language and connect it to specific concepts. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that makes you appreciate the cleverness of the puzzle setter. Keep at it, think meticulously about both “narrow part” and “cheek,” and remember that the solution is often simpler than the convoluted paths our minds initially wander down.
Keep those pencils sharpened and those minds whirring. We’ll be back soon with more insights into the captivating world of
crossword clues
!
Available Answers:
NECK.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 16 June 2025