The quiet hum of concentration, the scratch of a pen against paper, and then – a pause. Every dedicated solver of daily crossword clues knows that moment when a single crossword clue stands out, demanding more than a straightforward definition. Some clues are clever puns, others are subtle anagrams, but a particularly intriguing type of crossword clue is the one that asks for an example. Today, we’re delving into precisely such a challenge with the seemingly simple yet deceptively deep entry: “No contest,’ for example.”
This particular style of crossword clue, where a phrase is followed by a qualifier like “for example,” “e.g.,” or “say,” serves as a unique linguistic prompt. It isn’t asking for a direct synonym or a precise definition of “No contest.” Instead, it’s inviting you to recall a specific instance, a concrete illustration, or a member of a broader category that “No contest” perfectly exemplifies. Understanding this nuanced request is often the first, critical step in mastering such tricky crossword clues.
The phrase “No contest” itself carries multiple layers of meaning in everyday language, which adds to the complexity of solving this type of crossword clue. It can denote an outcome where one party clearly dominates, leaving no doubt about the result. It might also refer to a legal plea, where a defendant doesn’t admit guilt but also doesn’t dispute the charges. Or, it could even signify a situation so utterly one-sided that any opposition would be futile. The genius of such a well-crafted crossword puzzle clue lies in its ability to harness this polysemy, pushing solvers to consider various interpretations before landing on the precise word or phrase the puzzle-setter has in mind.
When faced with a crossword clue structured this way, a strategic approach is essential. You’re not just thinking about what “No contest” means; you’re thinking about what
kind
of thing “No contest”
is an example of
. Is it a type of legal action? A descriptor for a sports event? A general term for an easy win? The “for example” subtly guides you away from broad concepts and towards the specific, often short, answer that fits the grid. This demands a different kind of mental agility than, say, a straightforward synonym clue.
Many seasoned solvers will tell you that the key to unlocking these specific-instance crossword clues often lies in considering different domains. A word that perfectly exemplifies “no contest” in one context might be entirely irrelevant in another. This is where your broader knowledge base comes into play – your familiarity with legal terminology, sports jargon, or common idiomatic expressions can provide the necessary breakthrough. For a concise crossword clue like “No contest,’ for example,” the challenge is amplified because the answer is likely to be brief, requiring a precise hit rather than a sprawling explanation.
Furthermore, the surrounding letters in the crossword grid become invaluable allies when tackling such a nuanced crossword clue. While the initial impulse might be to brainstorm every possible meaning of “No contest” and then every possible example, the crossing letters act as vital constraints. They quickly prune your list of potential answers, guiding you towards the exact word the constructor intended. It transforms a potentially open-ended linguistic exercise into a focused deductive task, making the daily crossword clue solvable.
Ultimately, solving a crossword clue like “No contest,’ for example” isn’t just about knowing vocabulary; it’s about understanding the constructor’s intent, appreciating the subtle art of clue-writing, and employing strategic thinking. It’s about navigating the linguistic landscape of the English language, recognizing how a common phrase can point to a very specific, often surprising, instance. The satisfaction derived from cracking such a well-designed crossword puzzle clue is immense, a testament to the blend of knowledge, logic, and intuition that makes crossword puzzles so enduringly popular. These are the moments that elevate the experience of tackling your daily crossword clues from a routine to a genuine intellectual pursuit.
Available Answers:
PLEA.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –0908-25 NY Times Crossword 8 Sep 25, Monday
Universal Crossword – Game Changers By Adam Simpson