Lights Out: Tackling a Tricky ‘Out of Power’ Crossword Clue
Power outages. They’re frustrating, inconvenient, and often leave us fumbling in the dark. But fear not, crossword enthusiasts, because today we’re shining a light (pun intended!) on a common crossword clue that evokes that very feeling: ‘Out of Power.’
This seemingly simple phrase can lead to a surprisingly diverse range of answers, depending on the grid’s constraints and the overall theme of the puzzle. Before diving into the possibilities, let’s consider what ‘out of power’ truly means. It speaks to a state of being without energy, either in a literal electrical sense or in a more metaphorical context.
We need to think beyond simply ‘dead battery’ or ‘blown fuse’ (though those
could
be valid, depending on the number of letters required). The brilliance of a good crossword constructor lies in their ability to play with language, leading us down unexpected paths.
Consider the political arena. A deposed leader is certainly ‘out of power.’ The word might allude to a team no longer in first place, knocked off their pedestal. The phrase could even point to a feeling of helplessness, of being powerless in a given situation.
So, how do we approach deciphering this clue? The most important factors are:
The Length of the Answer:
This is your first and most crucial piece of information. Count the boxes in the grid to determine the number of letters the solution must contain. This will immediately eliminate many possibilities.
Crossings:
Look at the letters you already have in place from intersecting words. These can act as valuable guideposts, leading you closer to the correct answer. A single well-placed letter can narrow down the options considerably.
The Theme (If Any):
Is the crossword puzzle built around a particular theme? Knowing the theme can provide valuable context and point you towards answers related to that subject. For example, if the theme is electrical engineering, the solution is more likely to be technical. Or, if the theme is chess, it will likely be chess-related.
Think Outside the Box (But Stay Within the Grid):
This is where the art of crossword solving truly lies. Don’t be afraid to consider less obvious interpretations of ‘out of power.’ Is it a euphemism for something else? A reference to a historical event? A play on words?
Let’s explore some general avenues of thought to help you brainstorm:
Political Terms:
Consider words related to political downfall, such as ‘deposed,’ ‘ousted,’ or ‘defeated.’
Electrical Terminology:
Think of terms associated with power failures, like ‘offline,’ ‘downed,’ or ‘unplugged.’
Figurative Language:
Explore words that describe a lack of influence or control, such as ‘impotent,’ ‘helpless,’ or ‘weakened.’
Sporting Terms:
If the puzzle has a sporting bent, think of terms describing teams that have lost their lead or are no longer in contention.
Abstract Concepts:
Consider words that represent a loss of momentum or vitality.
Keep your mind open, consider all the angles, and remember to leverage those crucial crossing letters. Good luck, and may your grids be ever in your favor!
Available Answers:
DEAD.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Friday’s Daily By Wendy L. Brandes / Ed. Patti Varol