Welcome back, fellow word wranglers and lexicon lovers! There’s nothing quite like the mental gymnastics of a challenging
crossword clue
to kickstart the day, or indeed, to wind it down. Today, we’re diving headfirst into a particularly intriguing specimen that landed on our mental doorstep: “Not pushy, so one-time VIP cut out (13)“.
At first glance, this
crossword clue
looks like a delightful tangle, isn’t it? Thirteen letters to fill, and a phrase that promises both a definition and some rather clever wordplay. This is the kind of
crossword clue
that makes you sit up straighter, grab your favorite pen (or digital equivalent), and really dig in. It’s a prime example of how cryptic setters craft intricate puzzles that are immensely satisfying to unravel.
Let’s dissect this beauty. The first part, “Not pushy,” immediately suggests a specific type of personality or characteristic. Is it someone who is gentle? Reserved? Unassuming? Or perhaps something even more nuanced? This segment of the
crossword clue
is almost certainly leading us towards the definition component of our solution. As any seasoned solver knows, identifying the exact meaning can often be the trickiest part, especially when the setter uses indirect or metaphorical language. Thinking about synonyms for “not pushy” opens up a whole field of possibilities, from quiet demeanor to a more subtle approach.
Now, for the really juicy part of this
crossword clue
: “so one-time VIP cut out.” This is where the true artistry of the cryptic setter shines, and where the wordplay elements come into full bloom. The word “so” often acts as a bridge, linking the definition to the wordplay, or indicating a result. But sometimes, in the cunning world of cryptic crosswords, it can be part of the wordplay itself, perhaps hinting at a sound-alike or a specific construction.
Then we have “one-time.” In the realm of
crossword clues
, “one-time” frequently signals something past, or perhaps a prefix indicating a former state, like “ex-“. It’s a common trope, and one to always keep in mind when encountering such phrasing. Following that, “VIP.” This is an abbreviation we all know well – Very Important Person. But how does it fit into the wordplay? Does it represent those three specific letters? Or perhaps a synonym for a person of status, like “lord,” “sir,” “ace,” or “star”? The possibilities are part of the fun in exploring this
crossword clue
.
Finally, the phrase “cut out.” This is a crucial indicator, and one that can have several meanings in a cryptic
crossword clue
. “Cut out” could imply removal of letters from a larger word or phrase. It might suggest an anagram, though usually, anagram indicators are more explicit like “muddled,” “broken,” or “confused.” More often, “cut out” points to an excision, a subtraction, or even a hidden word construction where the answer is literally “cut out” from a sequence of words. Deciphering the exact role of “cut out” is key to unlocking the full mechanism of this particular
crossword clue
.
The brilliance of this 13-letter
crossword clue
lies in how these disparate elements are designed to combine. The definition “not pushy” will need to perfectly align with the construction derived from “so one-time VIP cut out.” It’s about finding that synergy where the wordplay, once assembled, yields a word that precisely matches the initial definition. These are the moments that make solving a
crossword clue
so incredibly rewarding – the “aha!” moment when all the pieces click into place.
This particular puzzle exemplifies the kind of brainteaser that makes us keep coming back for more. It requires a blend of vocabulary knowledge, an understanding of cryptic conventions, and a healthy dose of lateral thinking. Take some time to ponder this excellent
crossword clue
yourself. The satisfaction of cracking it open, without a hint in sight, is truly unparalleled. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
UNCOMPETITIVE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 21 August 2025