Greetings, fellow word wranglers and lexicon lovers! There are days when a crossword puzzle simply sings, and then there are days when it throws down a gauntlet so elegantly crafted, you can’t help but admire its artistry. Today felt like one of those latter days, especially when encountering a certain
crossword clue
that truly stood out from the grid.
The clue in question? “Outstanding effort … or a feature of 16-, 21-, 34- and 46-Across?“
Now, if that doesn’t immediately pique your interest, you might need to check your word-nerd pulse! This isn’t just any ordinary
crossword clue
; it’s a masterclass in misdirection and meta-puzzle brilliance. It’s the kind of clue that makes you pause, puts a little smile on your face, and sends you on a delightful scavenger hunt through the grid itself.
Let’s unpack this beauty. On the surface, “Outstanding effort” immediately suggests a common phrase, perhaps something about admirable work or a superlative achievement. Your mind races through possibilities, searching for synonyms or common idioms. And for a moment, you might even jot down a potential answer, feeling quite pleased with yourself. But then you hit the ellipsis, and that’s where the magic truly begins.
“…or a feature of 16-, 21-, 34- and 46-Across?” This second half transforms the entire nature of the
crossword clue
. It shifts from a straightforward definition into a thematic reveal, a unifying element that ties together four seemingly disparate answers within the puzzle. This isn’t just about defining a term; it’s about identifying a pattern, a shared characteristic, or a clever linguistic trick woven into the very fabric of the grid.
For seasoned solvers, this type of
crossword clue
is a pure delight. It’s a nod from the setter, a wink that says, “I’ve built something special here, and I invite you to discover its hidden depths.” It elevates the puzzle from a simple word-fill exercise to a genuine intellectual challenge, rewarding keen observation and a willingness to look beyond the obvious.
My initial approach to this
crossword clue
involved a bit of a dance. I first tackled 16-, 21-, 34-, and 46-Across individually, trying to solve them based on their own clues. Once I had a few of those in place, the wheels started turning. What could possibly connect them all? Was it a type of word? A shared prefix or suffix? A common theme? The process of identifying the common thread is incredibly satisfying. It’s that wonderful “aha!” moment when the pieces click into place, and you realize the elegance of the setter’s design.
This particular
crossword clue
is a perfect example of why crosswords remain such an enduring and beloved pastime. They challenge us, entertain us, and occasionally, they amaze us with their cleverness. It’s a testament to the skill of the constructor to craft such a multi-layered riddle, one that works on both a surface level and as a guide to the puzzle’s deeper structure.
So, how did this
crossword clue
treat you? Did you spot the connection quickly, or did it make you scratch your head for a while? Share your thoughts on tackling these thematic clues in the comments below – but remember, no spoilers for those still working on it! Let’s keep the mystery alive for now.
Available Answers:
A-PLUS WORK.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0708-25 NY Times Crossword 8 Jul 25, Tuesday