“Put on show (7)” – a seemingly straightforward
crossword clue
that often holds more layers than one might initially perceive. These types of
crossword clues
, where a common phrase is presented for a single-word answer, are the bread and butter of many puzzles, from your daily quick solve to the more challenging cryptic editions. They invite solvers to delve into the nuances of language, to strip away the conversational fluff and pinpoint the core action or object.
When faced with a
crossword clue
like “Put on show (7),” the first impulse is often to brainstorm immediate synonyms. The phrase itself evokes a clear image: making something visible, presenting it for others to see. But the true art of solving lies in the precision required, especially when a specific letter count, in this case, seven, acts as a crucial filter. Many words might fit the general meaning of “put on show” – “display,” “present,” “reveal,” “demonstrate” – but not all of them will fit the exact seven-letter constraint.
This particular
crossword clue
demands a careful examination of verbs associated with presentation. Is it about making something available for public viewing in a formal setting? Or is it simply about making something visible? The difference can be subtle, yet profound, dictating whether you land on the correct solution or find yourself staring blankly at the grid. Consider the various contexts in which something might be ‘put on show’. A gallery might ‘put on show’ works of art, a student might ‘put on show’ their skills, or a shop might ‘put on show’ new merchandise. Each scenario points to a similar action, but the precise word choice can vary.
Often, these simple-looking
crossword clues
serve as excellent testbeds for your vocabulary. You might think of a five-letter word that perfectly captures the essence, or perhaps a longer, ten-letter synonym. The challenge then becomes unearthing that one precise seven-letter word that aligns perfectly with both the meaning and the numerical restriction. It’s a rewarding moment when the right word finally clicks into place, revealing itself as the optimal fit for the space provided.
For those tackling a cryptic
crossword clue
with a similar surface reading, the approach would be entirely different. The phrase “Put on show” could be part of a clever wordplay mechanism, a hidden anagram, or even a double definition where one part of the clue points to ‘put on’ and another to ‘show’. However, in a standard quick crossword, the intention is usually more direct: find the most fitting single word equivalent.
To effectively solve such a
crossword clue
, consider breaking down the phrase. “Put on” implies an action, an initiation. “Show” refers to the act of displaying or revealing. Combining these, what single verb of seven letters encapsulates making something visible, often for appreciation or inspection? Think about the common places you might encounter this action. What do museums do? What do artists do with their work? What do stores do with their products?
The process of elimination is key here. As you generate potential synonyms for “put on show,” immediately check their letter count. If a word like “display” comes to mind, quickly count the letters – six. That won’t work for this specific
crossword clue
. If “demonstrate” surfaces, count again – eleven. Still not right. This iterative process, refining your vocabulary against the numerical constraint, is fundamental to mastering these types of
crossword clues
.
Understanding the common patterns in
crossword clues
also helps. Many puzzles reuse certain thematic ideas or even specific words across different grids. If you’ve encountered a similar concept before, that memory can provide a significant advantage. This “Put on show (7)“
crossword clue
is a fantastic example of how a simple instruction can lead to a satisfying mental workout, urging you to explore the depths of your lexicon. It’s not just about knowing the answer; it’s about appreciating the journey to get there, narrowing down possibilities until only the perfect word remains.
Available Answers:
EXHIBIT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 20 October 2025