Welcome back, fellow word sleuths, to another dive into the captivating world of crossword puzzles! Today, we’re tackling a particular type of crossword clue that, at first glance, seems wonderfully straightforward but often makes us pause, squint, and wonder if we’re overthinking things. It’s the kind of clue that relies on a universal understanding of a concept, combined with that ever-so-helpful letter count.
The crossword clue in question?
“Person over the age of eighteen (5)“
.
Ah, the classic definitional crossword clue. These are the bedrock of many a daily crossword, offering a direct path to an answer without the need for intricate anagrams, cryptic wordplay, or obscure geographical knowledge. They’re meant to be accessible, a solid anchor point from which to branch out into more challenging parts of the grid. Yet, sometimes, it’s precisely their apparent simplicity that throws us for a loop. Our minds, accustomed to the linguistic gymnastics often required for a tough crossword clue, might initially skip over the most obvious solution in search of something more profound or convoluted.
Let’s dissect this specific crossword clue. First, we have the definition itself: “Person over the age of eighteen.” This immediately brings to mind a significant life stage, a legal and social benchmark recognized across many cultures. It signifies a transition from childhood to a new set of responsibilities, rights, and privileges. Think about all the implications of this age: the right to vote, to enter into contracts, to purchase certain goods, and often, a greater degree of independence. It’s a fundamental concept, deeply embedded in our collective understanding of society.
Then there’s the crucial numerical constraint:
(5)
. Five letters. This is where the magic truly happens in solving many a crossword clue. Once you’ve grasped the core concept, the letter count acts as a powerful filter, helping you narrow down the possibilities. Without it, your mind might wander to phrases or longer terms that fit the description. But with “five letters” staring back at you, the search space dramatically shrinks. It forces a precision in thought, demanding that single, succinct word that perfectly encapsulates the definition.
When confronted with such a crossword clue, the process often involves a few steps. First, establish a clear understanding of the definition. What exactly does “Person over the age of eighteen” signify? Brainstorm related terms or concepts. Is there a single, commonly accepted word that summarizes this status? Next, bring in the letter count. Go through your mental list of possibilities, filtering them through the five-letter requirement. More often than not, a common, everyday word will emerge, sometimes with an almost embarrassing clarity, leaving you to wonder why it didn’t instantly spring to mind.
These types of crossword clues are essential for momentum. They build confidence, help you fill in crucial intersecting letters, and provide a toehold in a larger, more complex puzzle. The satisfaction of slotting in a correct answer, even for a seemingly straightforward clue, is a core part of the crossword solving experience. It’s a reminder that not every challenge needs to be a linguistic Everest; sometimes, the most rewarding solves come from a simple, elegant match between definition and word length. So, the next time you encounter a clear-cut definitional crossword clue like this, trust your instincts, respect the letter count, and enjoy that satisfying moment of recognition!
Available Answers:
ADULT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Thursday, 11 September 2025