Ever stared at a
crossword clue
that feels like a perfectly crafted riddle, beckoning you to untangle its layers? That moment when a seemingly straightforward definition begins to morph into something deeper, hinting at wordplay or a clever double meaning, is what keeps legions of solvers coming back for more. It’s the delightful intellectual sparring match that makes the daily
crossword puzzle
an indispensable part of countless routines.
Today, we’re focusing our analytical lens on a particularly intriguing
crossword clue
that has piqued the interest of many a seasoned solver: “Obligation to hold record for second-in-command (6)“. This isn’t just any
crossword clue
; it’s a masterclass in concise misdirection, a testament to the artistry of crossword constructors who manage to pack so much intrigue into just a handful of words and a single digit.
Let’s break down the components of this fascinating
crossword clue
. The word “Obligation” immediately conjures images of duty, requirement, or a binding commitment. It suggests something that
must
be done, a responsibility that cannot be shirked. When you consider this alongside “to hold record,” the plot thickens. “To hold record” could mean keeping a log, maintaining archives, or simply being the one who registers information. Is it a person who records, or the act of recording itself? The beauty of a well-crafted
crossword clue
often lies in this ambiguity, forcing you to consider multiple interpretations.
Then we come to “second-in-command.” This phrase is often quite literal in
crossword puzzles
, pointing to a deputy, an assistant, or someone who stands in for the primary leader. It’s a positional descriptor, suggesting hierarchy and a supportive role. The challenge, of course, is how “second-in-command” marries with “obligation to hold record.” Do these elements combine to describe a specific person’s role, or is there a more abstract connection at play? And crucially, how does all of this distil down to a six-letter word?
The beauty of a
crossword challenge
like this lies in its demand for lateral thinking. It’s not simply a matter of finding a direct synonym for each part. Instead, you’re tasked with finding a single word that elegantly encompasses all these disparate concepts. Is it a play on words? A hidden definition? Or perhaps a clever cryptic element where the surface reading provides a distraction from the true meaning? For those looking to
solve crossword
puzzles with more finesse, understanding these nuances is key.
When you encounter a
crossword clue
like “Obligation to hold record for second-in-command (6),” the mind instinctively begins to cycle through possibilities. You might first think of synonyms for “obligation” that are six letters long, then try to force “record” and “second-in-command” into the picture. Or perhaps you focus on “second-in-command” first, thinking of six-letter roles, and then see if they connect to “obligation” and “record.” This iterative process, this dance between definition and wordplay, is what makes the
daily crossword
so endlessly captivating.
The true genius of this particular
crossword clue
reveals itself when you finally unlock the answer. It’s that exhilarating “aha!” moment when the scattered pieces of meaning suddenly click into place, forming a coherent, satisfying whole. It’s a testament to the cleverness of the constructor, who manages to pack so much complexity and elegance into such a concise phrase. For anyone seeking
crossword puzzle help
or simply enjoying the cerebral workout, clues like this are the gold standard. They remind us that the English language, in the hands of a skilled wordsmith, can be an endless source of surprise and delight.
Available Answers:
DEPUTY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 30 November 2025
Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 16 July 2025