Decoding the Enigma: “Once tried to become abstruse (9)” – A Crossword Clue Conundrum
Ah, crossword enthusiasts! Have you ever encountered a clue that sends you spiralling into a vortex of synonyms, definitions, and cryptic wordplay? Today’s puzzle presents just such a challenge: “Once tried to become abstruse (9).”
This nine-letter word, seemingly simple at first glance, demands a deeper dive into the nuances of language. The clue utilizes a classic cryptic crossword technique – it doesn’t offer a direct definition. Instead, it presents a cryptic description, hinting at the answer through a clever word puzzle.
Let’s break down the components:
“Once tried”
: This phrase suggests a past tense action. We are looking for a verb in its past participle form, or perhaps a noun related to a past attempt.
“to become abstruse”
: This tells us something about the nature of the word we’re seeking. “Abstruse” means obscure, difficult to understand, or recondite. The answer, therefore, must be connected to the idea of being difficult or obscure.
The combination of these elements is key to unlocking the solution. We must consider words that imply a past attempt to achieve something obscure or complicated. Perhaps a past endeavor related to creating something complex, or perhaps a past action involving the deliberate obfuscation of something.
This clue demands a careful consideration of word roots, prefixes, and suffixes. It requires a thorough understanding of synonyms and near synonyms. Think about words related to secrecy, mystery, complexity, or obfuscation. Think about words associated with attempting to create something hard to understand.
Consider the possibilities. Are we looking for a specific noun related to a particular historical event or practice? Or perhaps a more general term linked to the act of creating something complex?
The beauty of cryptic crosswords lies in their ability to challenge our vocabulary and our lateral thinking skills. This particular clue is a perfect example of this. It’s a fascinating exercise in wordplay, requiring us to think outside the box and to fully utilize our knowledge of the English language.
So, put on your detective hats, crossword solvers! Let’s unravel this linguistic riddle. Share your thoughts and potential solutions in the comments below! Let’s see who can crack this code first. Good luck! Remember to check back later for the answer and a full explanation. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
RECONDITE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 8 December 2024