Today’s spotlight falls on a particularly graceful and illustrative crossword clue: ‘Pirouetting, say‘. If you’ve ever found yourself twirling with a pen in hand, pondering the subtle nuances of a challenging crossword puzzle, then this one likely caught your eye. It’s a classic example of how constructors lead us to think not just about a word itself, but the broader category it belongs to.
‘Say’ in a crossword clue is a common indicator, a subtle but significant signal from the puzzle setter. It tells us that the word provided – in this case, ‘pirouetting’ – is not the definition we seek, but merely an example. Our task, then, is to identify the overarching concept, the group, or the type of activity that ‘pirouetting’ is an instance of. This moves beyond a simple synonym hunt or a direct definition, inviting a more conceptual leap. It’s a favorite technique for creating truly elegant and satisfying crossword clue experiences.
When faced with a crossword clue like ‘Pirouetting, say‘, the initial step involves deconstructing the given term. ‘Pirouetting’ immediately conjures images of dance, ballet, graceful movement, spinning, and performance. The act is fluid, often rhythmic, and typically involves the body. But the ‘say’ prompts us to step back. What
kind
of thing is pirouetting? What category does it fit into? Is it a form of exercise? A type of art? A specific kind of physical action? The beauty of solving a good crossword clue lies in exploring these interconnected ideas and finding the perfect fit.
These types of “example” clues are highly effective for crossword constructors because they test a solver’s ability to generalize and categorize. They demand a shift in thinking from the specific to the general. For seasoned solvers, recognizing the ‘say’ prompt instantly narrows down the range of potential answers, guiding them towards a broader classification. However, for those newer to the world of cryptic crosswords or even standard definition puzzles, it can be a subtle trap if you’re expecting a direct synonym. It’s a wonderful way to expand your mental dictionary and improve your lateral thinking skills, essential for mastering any crossword clue.
Consider the various contexts in which one might pirouette. On a stage, in a living room, perhaps even in a moment of playful spontaneity. What fundamental nature links all these instances? Is it the
act
itself? The
purpose
of the movement? The
way
it’s performed? These questions are key to unlocking the solution to this specific crossword clue. Many a brilliant crossword clue relies on this kind of associative and abstract thinking, pushing you beyond surface-level definitions.
Unpacking a crossword clue like ‘Pirouetting, say‘ is a truly rewarding experience. It reminds us that language is dynamic, and words often exist within families of concepts, not just as isolated definitions. Keep those mental gears turning, explore the possibilities that encompass this elegant action, and enjoy the intellectual satisfaction that comes with finding the perfect answer to such a nuanced crossword clue.
Available Answers:
ONTOE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Monday’s Daily By Amanda Cook / Ed. Patti Varol