There’s a unique satisfaction that comes with unraveling a truly clever crossword clue, especially one that anchors an entire puzzle’s theme. It’s the moment the whole grid clicks into place, the disparate entries suddenly making perfect, elegant sense. Today, we’re diving into one such cornerstone: a magnificent crossword clue that serves as both a definition and a roadmap for the rest of the puzzle.
Consider the head-scratching elegance of a clue like, “Objectionable inquiry … or what the statement at 17-, 26-, 50- or 59-Across has.” This isn’t just any crossword clue; it’s the Rosetta Stone for the entire solve. It’s a beautifully constructed piece of a thematic puzzle, designed to reward careful thought and a keen eye for patterns.
Every seasoned solver knows the thrill of a well-crafted crossword clue. But when a clue directly points to the
nature
of other entries, it elevates the entire experience. This specific crossword clue acts as a revealer. The first part, “Objectionable inquiry,” gives you a direct definition, something tangible you can solve for right away. This main entry is key. It’s not merely another answer in the grid; it encapsulates the very essence of what’s happening in the longer Across answers.
The magic truly unfolds with the second part of the crossword clue: “…or what the statement at 17-, 26-, 50- or 59-Across has.” This is where the constructor’s genius shines, laying out the parameters for a delightful discovery. It tells us that whatever the answer to “Objectionable inquiry” is, it’s also a characteristic shared by those other starred entries. This isn’t about simple synonyms or direct definitions for the other clues. Instead, the thematic answers at 17-, 26-, 50-, and 59-Across will possess a common element, a shared property, or a specific type of wordplay that ties directly back to our central crossword clue.
Think about the possibilities. Could the main crossword clue’s answer be a word that describes a particular
kind
of phrase? Perhaps it hints at a linguistic quirk, a grammatical structure, or a specific type of rhetorical device. Given the phrasing “statement at… has,” it strongly suggests a characteristic embedded
within
those other longer phrases or sentences. It’s less about what those phrases
mean
on the surface and more about an underlying structural or conceptual attribute. When tackling such a crossword clue, your approach should be multi-pronged. First, solve the defining part of the clue. What could “Objectionable inquiry” be? Once you have that solid answer, turn your attention to the other numbered entries. What do they
share
? What common thread binds them together that relates directly to your initial solution?
The constructor isn’t just giving you a challenging crossword clue; they’re inviting you on a treasure hunt. Each of those other long Across entries contains a hidden gem, and the primary answer illuminates what that gem is. Is it a play on words? A subtle manipulation of common idioms? A specific sound pattern? The beauty lies in the reveal. You’ll find yourself reviewing those other answers, and suddenly, the connection will snap into place, creating that wonderful “aha!” moment every crossword solver lives for.
This type of thematic crossword clue isn’t just about filling in boxes; it’s about understanding the artistry of language and the cleverness of puzzle design. It encourages a deeper engagement with the words and phrases we use every day, revealing their hidden depths and playful potential. So, as you stare down this magnificent crossword clue, remember: the answer to the first half is your guide to unlocking the brilliance of the entire puzzle. Enjoy the journey of discovery!
Available Answers:
LEADINGQUESTION.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Line of Inquiry By Suzanne Oliver