Crossword Clue Crusher: Decoding Tricky Puzzles
Hello fellow word nerds and crossword aficionados! Welcome to another deep dive into the captivating world of cryptic clues and head-scratching definitions. Today, we’re tackling a particularly intriguing specimen, a fiendishly clever clue that requires a bit of lateral thinking and a dash of imaginative flair.
The clue in question is: “Play supervisor organising a strange game (5,7).”
At first glance, the clue seems fairly straightforward. We’re looking for a two-word answer, one with five letters and the other with seven. The clue contains two key elements: a ‘play supervisor’ and ‘organising a strange game.’ Let’s break down each component to unlock its hidden meaning.
The ‘play supervisor’ aspect likely refers to someone in a position of authority or responsibility within a recreational setting. Consider different roles related to play, be it in a school, park, or community center. The supervisor oversees activities, maintains order, and ensures everyone is having a safe and enjoyable experience. This individual might be a teacher, a camp counselor, or even a parent volunteer. The puzzle maker could be using this descriptor to elicit a specific role or even a generic term for someone in charge.
Now, let’s analyze the phrase ‘organising a strange game.’ This is where the clue starts to become more intriguing. The word ‘organising’ suggests an action – the act of arranging, structuring, or putting something in order. We need to think of a type of game that could be considered ‘strange.’ What constitutes strangeness in a game? Is it unusual rules, bizarre equipment, or an unconventional objective?
The use of ‘organising’ hints at a rearrangement of elements within the game itself. Perhaps the letters of a word are being scrambled, or the players are being placed in an unusual formation. Consider games that involve wordplay, deception, or unconventional scoring systems. The “strange” element could also refer to the outcome of the game, creating unpredictable situations.
Furthermore, the juxtaposition of the ‘play supervisor’ and ‘organising a strange game’ could imply that the supervisor is the one responsible for this unusual arrangement. Perhaps they are bending the rules, creating a modified version of a classic game, or inventing something entirely new.
Consider the possibility of hidden wordplay within the clue itself. Are there any anagrams or embedded words that could lead us closer to the solution? The numbers (5,7) are vital, indicating the precise length of each word.
Think about synonyms for ‘strange,’ such as unusual, odd, peculiar, or bizarre. Substitute these terms into the clue to see if they spark any new ideas.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and consider less obvious interpretations. The best crossword clues often rely on misdirection and clever wordplay. Remember, the key to cracking this puzzle lies in understanding the relationship between the ‘play supervisor’ and the ‘strange game’ they are organising. Good luck and happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
STAGEMANAGER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 31 July 2025