There are few intellectual thrills quite like cracking a particularly stubborn cryptic
crossword clue
. The satisfaction that washes over you when the intricate layers of wordplay finally align, revealing that elusive answer, is truly unparalleled. Today, we’re diving into a fascinating example that’s been perplexing many a solver: “Old boatbuilder holds tongue at first when sworn in (2,4)“. This isn’t just any
crossword clue
; it’s a masterclass in misdirection and clever construction, demanding a blend of linguistic agility and lateral thinking.
When confronted with a
crossword clue
like this, the first step is always to take a deep breath and break it down. Cryptic clues, unlike their simpler quick crossword counterparts, are usually composed of two main parts: a definition and some form of wordplay. Our job is to identify each element and then figure out how they interweave to form the solution.
Let’s start with the definition. In this particular
crossword clue
, “Old boatbuilder” immediately jumps out as the likely candidate. This sets the scene, pointing us towards a specific profession, possibly an archaic or historical one, and hinting at a person. Knowing this provides a crucial anchor for our search. The two numbers in parentheses, (2,4), further refine our quest, indicating that the answer is a two-word phrase, with the first word having two letters and the second having four. This structural hint is invaluable for narrowing down possibilities.
Now, for the wordplay – the truly intricate heart of any cryptic
crossword clue
. “holds tongue at first when sworn in” is where the magic (and the challenge) truly lies. This phrase is packed with potential indicators and deceptive twists. The phrase “holds tongue at first” is particularly intriguing. In cryptic crosswords, “at first” is a classic indicator for initial letters. But what initial letters? Is it simply the first letters of “holds tongue”? That would give us ‘H.T.’, which conveniently fits the two-letter requirement for the first word of our answer. If so, then the rest of the clue must somehow explain the four-letter second word and link it all back to our “old boatbuilder.”
However, we must also consider the deeper meaning of “holds tongue.” This idiom implies silence, a state of being quiet or refraining from speech. How might this concept of silence or restraint integrate with “at first” and the subsequent phrase “when sworn in”? Cryptic clues often employ a double layer of meaning, so while “at first” strongly suggests initials, the idiom “holds tongue” might also be contributing to the wordplay in a more conceptual way.
Then we come to “when sworn in.” This part of the
crossword clue
introduces another rich vein of possibilities. What happens when someone is sworn in? They often take an oath, make a solemn promise, or are formally inducted into a position. Is there a word or a common action associated with this act that could be cleverly hidden or hinted at here? Could it refer to the language used during such a ceremony, or perhaps the mental state of the person undergoing it? The very act of being sworn in often involves a moment of profound gravity, perhaps even a period of quiet contemplation before uttering a vow.
The beauty of a well-crafted cryptic
crossword clue
like this is how these disparate elements are designed to click into place, creating a coherent and satisfying whole. The “old boatbuilder” definition, the cryptic instructions of “holds tongue at first,” and the contextual nuance of “when sworn in” all work together to guide you towards a specific solution. It requires you to consider various interpretations of each phrase, testing them against the letter count and the overall definition until the pieces finally align. It’s a rewarding journey of linguistic exploration, pushing you to think outside the box and truly appreciate the art of clue construction. Keep digging into the layers; the solution to this engaging
crossword clue
is undoubtedly within reach!
Available Answers:
ONOATH.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 24 September 2025