There’s a unique satisfaction that washes over you when a particularly knotty crossword clue unravels, isn’t there? It’s that exhilarating mental stretch, the subtle shift in perspective, and then—
bam!
—the sudden clarity as the answer slots perfectly into place. For lovers of wordplay and linguistic gymnastics, deciphering a well-crafted cryptic crossword clue is not just a pastime; it’s an intellectual adventure, a delightful dance between wit and words.
Today, we’re casting our net over a brilliant example that recently caught my eye and certainly made me pause, ponder, and appreciate the artistry behind the setter’s craft. It’s the kind of cryptic crossword clue that looks straightforward enough at first glance, but quickly reveals layers of playful misdirection and clever construction.
The clue in question?
“Pinch fish returning to have extra time in bed (5,2)“
.
Just reading it aloud, you can almost hear the gears grinding, can’t you? This isn’t your average, straightforward definition. Oh no, this is the realm where common phrases take on new meanings, where words are twisted and turned, and where a single indicator can completely flip your understanding. It’s what makes the cryptic crossword clue such a rich and rewarding challenge.
Let’s break down the initial impressions, without, of course, giving anything away. We have “Pinch fish,” which immediately conjures images. Is it a type of fish? Is it an action performed
on
a fish, or by one? Then there’s the intriguing “returning.” In the world of cryptic crossword clues, words like “returning,” “reversed,” “back,” or “up” (in down clues) are often neon signs pointing towards a specific type of wordplay. They tell you that a part of the answer, or even a component of the wordplay, needs to be read backward. This is a crucial piece of the puzzle, directing your thought process down a particular path.
And finally, the definition: “to have extra time in bed.” Ah, a classic. This is the part of the cryptic crossword clue that usually provides the straight meaning of the solution, often in a wonderfully evocative or common phrase. The setter’s genius lies in marrying this clear definition with the seemingly unrelated, convoluted wordplay.
Then there are the numbers in brackets: “(5,2)”. These are, of course, the word lengths. They’re invaluable guides, confirming the structure of our elusive solution. It tells us we’re looking for a two-word answer, the first part five letters long, and the second, two letters. This small detail can significantly narrow down the possibilities once you start to piece together the wordplay and definition.
This particular crossword clue is a prime example of how setters combine various elements—a potential definition, an indicator of word manipulation, and perhaps even a hidden component—to create a complete, satisfying puzzle. It demands a bit of lateral thinking, a willingness to play with words, and an eye for those subtle signals that unlock the true meaning.
Whether you’re a veteran at deciphering a cryptic crossword clue or just dipping your toes into the fascinating waters of word puzzles, clues like “Pinch fish returning to have extra time in bed (5,2)” offer a masterclass in construction. They teach you to look beyond the obvious, to appreciate the layers of meaning, and to savor the journey of discovery.
It’s these moments of pure mental wrestling, culminating in that triumphant solution, that keep us coming back for more. So, take a moment with this one. Let the different parts of the crossword clue tumble around in your mind. Consider how “pinch fish” might be clued, how “returning” works its magic, and what “extra time in bed” truly entails. The joy is in the chase, in the unraveling, and in the sheer cleverness of it all. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
SLEEPIN.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 2 July 2025