For any dedicated crossword puzzle solver, there are certain cryptic crossword clues that stand out. They’re the ones that initially stump you, make you scratch your head, and then, with a flash of insight, reveal themselves as brilliant pieces of wordplay. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on just such a
crossword clue
: “Pursued, we hear, but remains pure (6)“.
This particular daily crossword gem is a fantastic example of a constructor’s art, weaving together sound, definition, and a dash of misdirection into a concise six-letter answer. If you encountered this in your morning puzzle and found yourself staring blankly, rest assured, you’re in good company. These are precisely the kinds of challenges that make the world of cryptic crosswords so endlessly fascinating. Unpacking a
crossword clue
like this one is a masterclass in linguistic deduction.
Let’s dissect this clever
crossword clue
. The phrase “we hear” is an immediate beacon for seasoned solvers. It’s a classic indicator, nudging us to think aurally. When you see “we hear,” “reportedly,” “audibly,” or “said,” your crossword brain should immediately shift into homophone mode. This means the word or phrase preceding it, “Pursued” in this instance, isn’t meant to be taken literally for its meaning, but for how it
sounds
. So, we need to consider what “Pursued” might sound like, or what words synonymous with being pursued might sound like. This is where the first layer of cryptic brilliance unfolds in this deceptively simple
crossword clue
.
Then we hit the conjunction “but,” which often signals a pivot or a contrast in a
crossword clue
. It bridges the homophone part with the defining element: “remains pure.” This second half provides the definition for our six-letter answer. “Remains pure” suggests something untouched, uncorrupted, untainted, or perhaps something that maintains its original, pristine state. The beauty here is how the constructor has managed to connect two seemingly disparate ideas – the sound of being “pursued” and the state of “remaining pure” – within a single word. It’s a testament to the richness of the English language and the cleverness of
crossword puzzle
construction. For a
crossword clue
to achieve this level of elegance is truly commendable.
The six-letter constraint is, of course, our final vital piece of information, narrowing down the possibilities once we’ve unraveled the wordplay. It forces us to be precise with our homophone and our definition. Unpacking this type of
crossword clue
isn’t just about finding the answer; it’s about appreciating the elegant construction, the subtle misdirections, and the satisfaction of piecing together the linguistic puzzle. It’s what makes daily crossword solving such a rewarding mental exercise.
Whether you’re a long-time solver seeking a little reassurance or a newcomer looking to sharpen your cryptic
crossword
skills, analyzing clues like “Pursued, we hear, but remains pure (6)” offers invaluable insight into how these intricate puzzles operate. It highlights the delightful interplay between sound, meaning, and a constructor’s wit, proving that every
crossword clue
has a story to tell. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the solution and explain the full logic behind this engaging
crossword clue
.
Available Answers:
CHASTE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Saturday, 28 June 2025