That particular crossword clue, “Remains to be seen?“, often sparks a delightful blend of intrigue and momentary head-scratching. It’s a classic example of how a seemingly straightforward phrase, when punctuated by that innocent-looking question mark, can transform into a cunning riddle designed to test a solver’s linguistic agility. For seasoned crossword enthusiasts and newcomers alike, deciphering such a crossword clue is where the real fun lies.
At its core, this crossword clue plays on the dual nature of language, offering both literal and figurative interpretations. Let’s unpack “remains” first. On one hand, it refers to what is left over – the vestiges of something that once was. We can think of archaeological remains, the skeletal remains of an organism, or even the remnants of a meal. This interpretation invites us to consider answers related to physical remnants, historical artifacts, or the aftermath of an event. Many a good crossword clue relies on this kind of tangible imagery.
Then there’s the verb “remains,” meaning to continue to exist or to stay in a particular place or condition. “The issue remains unresolved,” for instance, or “She remains calm under pressure.” This opens up a different avenue of thought for our crossword clue, suggesting persistence or an ongoing state.
Now, let’s turn our attention to “to be seen.” Literally, it means something that will be observed visually in the future. “The eclipse is yet to be seen.” But figuratively, and more commonly in idiomatic use, “it remains to be seen” implies uncertainty about future events or outcomes. It’s a way of saying, “We don’t know what will happen yet.” This is a crucial pivot for understanding this particular crossword clue. The question mark strongly hints that the setter isn’t just asking about something physically visible in the future, but rather leaning into this idiomatic sense of doubt or pending outcome.
The beauty of this type of crossword clue lies in its misdirection. Are we looking for something that
is
a “remain” and
will be
“seen”? Or are we looking for something that
has yet to be determined or observed
in the future, playing on the idiom? The question mark is your biggest hint here. In the world of cryptic crosswords and even many standard puzzles, a question mark almost always signals wordplay, a pun, a twist on a common phrase, or a non-literal interpretation. It’s the setter’s wink, inviting you to think beyond the obvious.
When you encounter such a challenging crossword clue, it’s helpful to consider the potential answer’s length, if you have it. Is it a short, punchy word? Or a multi-word phrase? This constraint can often guide your thinking. For instance, if it’s a short answer, it might be a single word that cleverly encompasses both “remains” and the idea of being “seen” or “observed.” If it’s a longer phrase, it could be a direct play on the idiom itself, or a creative reinterpretation of it.
Another strategy when tackling a tricky crossword clue like this is to consider how the answer might interact with intersecting words. Sometimes, the initial letters provided by other solved clues are the key to unlocking the intended wordplay. Don’t be afraid to jot down a few possibilities for each interpretation of “remains” and “to be seen,” and then see which ones could fit the letter pattern.
Ultimately, solving a compelling crossword clue like “Remains to be seen?” offers immense satisfaction. It’s a testament to the cleverness of language and the ingenuity of crossword setters. It pushes us to think laterally, to consider the multiple layers of meaning within seemingly simple words, and to appreciate the artistry involved in crafting such a compelling puzzle piece. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most puzzling crossword clue is the one that hides its true meaning in plain sight, just waiting for a fresh perspective. Keep at it, and you’ll soon see the light!
Available Answers:
RUINS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 1004-25 NY Times Crossword 4 Oct 25, Saturday