Precisely on the beat without a minute to spare (4,2,4)
Precisely on the beat without a minute to spare (4,2,4): Cracking a tricky clue
Ah, the joy of a good crossword puzzle! That moment of satisfaction when you finally crack a tricky clue, the feeling of accomplishment as you fill in the grid, the sheer pleasure of a brain teaser well solved. But what about those moments when a clue just leaves you stumped? Those cryptic riddles that seem to defy all logic?
Today, we’re tackling a particularly intriguing clue: “Precisely on the beat without a minute to spare (4,2,4).” This clue is a real head-scratcher, one that requires a bit of lateral thinking and a keen understanding of language.
The first thing to note is the clue’s structure. It’s a double definition clue, meaning it has two distinct meanings that both lead to the same answer. The first part, “Precisely on the beat,” hints at a musical context. We’re looking for something that is perfectly timed and in sync with a rhythm.
The second part, “without a minute to spare,” adds a sense of urgency and precision. It tells us that the answer is something that occurs without any delay or hesitation.
Putting these two pieces together, we need to find a word or phrase that represents both perfect timing in music and an action that is carried out with absolute precision.
Now, let’s consider the wordplay. The clue provides us with the answer’s length: “4,2,4.” This tells us that the answer is a nine-letter word or phrase with a specific arrangement.
This is where the real fun begins! We need to delve into our vocabulary and explore various musical terms and phrases, looking for something that fits the description of being “precisely on the beat” and “without a minute to spare.”
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. The answer may not be a straightforward musical term. It could be a metaphorical phrase or even a well-known saying that has a hidden musical link.
This clue is a great example of how cryptic crosswords can challenge our minds and expand our vocabulary. So, put on your thinking cap, grab a pen and paper, and let’s crack this cryptic gem together. Remember, every puzzle, no matter how difficult, can be solved with a little bit of patience, persistence, and a healthy dose of wordplay!
Available Answers:
JUSTINTIME.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 28 August 2024