Decoding the Crossword: Presidential Power and a Numerical Puzzle
Alright, crossword aficionados, let’s dive into a clue that’s been stirring up a bit of discussion: “Presidential appointment … or the start of 18-, 24-, 39- or 52-Across?“
This clue is a classic example of crossword trickery, blending a straightforward definition with a sneaky reference to other entries within the puzzle. The key here is understanding how the two parts of the clue interact.
Presidential Appointment: The Obvious Path
The first part, “Presidential appointment,” immediately steers our thoughts toward the realm of politics. Think about positions within the government that the President has the authority to fill. Cabinet members spring to mind, as do judges, ambassadors, and heads of various agencies. This is likely where many solvers started, and for good reason. It’s a direct and logical interpretation of the initial wording.
The challenge, of course, is that the answer must also connect to the second part of the clue: “the start of 18-, 24-, 39- or 52-Across?” This indicates that the solution isn’t
just
a general term for a presidential appointment; it’s a word or phrase that begins four other entries within the puzzle.
The Numerical Rabbit Hole: Unlocking the Pattern
This is where things get interesting. We need to locate entries 18-Across, 24-Across, 39-Across, and 52-Across within the crossword grid. Once we find them, we need to identify the common starting word or phrase that connects all four.
It’s highly probable that the lengths of the answers for 18-, 24-, 39-, and 52-Across will vary, but they will share that opening element. The skill lies in considering what that common starter word might be.
Think of words that can stand alone but also readily form the beginning of longer phrases. Often, these are common nouns, adjectives, or even prepositions that naturally link to other words.
A Strategy for Success: Combining Clues
The best approach here is to work both angles simultaneously. As you consider potential answers for “Presidential appointment,” keep the numerical component firmly in mind. Ask yourself:
Could this word reasonably start other words or phrases?
If it did, would those phrases make sense in the context of a crossword puzzle?
Similarly, as you begin to fill in other sections of the grid, pay close attention to 18-, 24-, 39-, and 52-Across. Even solving just one or two of these entries can provide a crucial hint about the shared starting word.
Potential Pitfalls: Red Herrings and Distractions
Be wary of overly simplistic solutions. The clue is deliberately crafted to be multifaceted, and the most obvious answers are often decoys.
Also, don’t get bogged down in overthinking the “Presidential appointment” aspect. While it’s important, the numerical link to the other entries is likely the more critical part of the clue.
Focus on the connections. The successful solve depends on finding a word that bridges both the political and numerical elements of the crossword clue. Good luck, and happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
CABINETPICK.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Set The Table By Matt Revis