Welcome back, fellow word-sleuths and puzzle aficionados! There’s nothing quite like the mental workout a truly clever
crossword clue
provides, and today’s offering is a fantastic example of the nuanced wordplay we all adore. We’re diving into a particular
crossword clue
that, at first glance, might seem straightforward, but upon closer inspection, reveals delightful layers of wit. The
crossword clue
in question is:
Reportedly comment on satirical show (5)
This isn’t just any
crossword clue
; it’s the kind that sparks that ‘aha!’ moment, the kind that makes you appreciate the constructor’s genius. For those of us who live for the thrill of a well-crafted cryptic, this one sings. It brings together a classic indicator with a wonderfully evocative definition, all wrapped up in a neat five-letter package. When you encounter a challenging
crossword clue
like this, the satisfaction of the solve is immense, solidifying why we all love engaging with daily crossword challenges.
Let’s peel back the layers of this intriguing
crossword clue
. The first word, “Reportedly,” is our golden ticket to a specific type of wordplay. In the world of cryptic crosswords, “reportedly” (along with siblings like “heard,” “audibly,” “it’s said,” or “sounds like”) is an unmistakable signal that we’re dealing with a homophone. This means the answer isn’t
what the definition literally describes
, but rather
something that sounds like
what the definition describes. It’s a beautifully deceptive device, often leading solvers down a garden path only to reveal the true solution through aural recognition. When you encounter “reportedly” in a
crossword clue
, your ears, not just your eyes, become your primary tool. You’re searching for a word that, when spoken aloud, evokes another word, and it’s that
other
word that fits the actual definition part of the
crossword clue
. It’s a brilliant way to test your phonological awareness and your ability to think outside the literal box, a quintessential element of advanced crossword puzzle solving. This particular application within
this
crossword clue
is especially neat, playing on common pronunciations and leading to a satisfying discovery for any seasoned crossword puzzle solver.
Then we move to the definition part of this fascinating
crossword clue
: “comment on satirical show.” This phrase immediately conjures images of late-night television, sharp-witted political commentary, and the often-hilarious critique of current events. A satirical show itself is designed to make observations, to poke fun, to highlight absurdities through humor and exaggeration. So, a “comment on satirical show” could be many things – a review, an analysis, a reaction, or even the act of
being
a comment. The brilliance of this part of the
crossword clue
lies in its generality, allowing for multiple interpretations until the homophone element clicks into place. What kind of comment would be appropriate for such a show? What action is being described? The scope is broad enough to keep you guessing, but focused enough to steer you towards the right linguistic neighborhood. The beauty of solving crossword clues like these is how the seemingly disparate parts suddenly coalesce into a cohesive and logical whole, offering a true intellectual workout for those seeking crossword clue assistance.
The true artistry of this
crossword clue
is in how “Reportedly” interacts with “comment on satirical show.” You’re not looking for a five-letter word that
is
a comment on a satirical show, but a five-letter word that
sounds like
a comment on a satirical show. It forces you to mentally list words associated with the definition, then
listen
to them in your head, searching for that auditory twin that fits the length and the context. This synergy between the cryptic indicator and the descriptive definition is what makes certain
crossword clues
stand out as truly exceptional. The solver is invited on a mini linguistic adventure, navigating sound and meaning to arrive at a single, perfect word. It’s a prime example of the kind of clever wordplay that elevates a simple daily crossword clue into a memorable puzzle-solving experience.
Solving a
crossword clue
of this caliber isn’t just about filling in boxes; it’s about appreciating the linguistic craftsmanship involved. It’s about the journey of deduction, the momentary frustration, and the ultimate triumph when the pieces snap together. This particular
crossword clue
offers all of that in spades. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of these daily mental puzzles, reminding us why we keep coming back for more. As you ponder this excellent
crossword clue
, consider the subtle dance between sound and sense, and the satisfaction that comes from unlocking its secret. It’s a fantastic example of a well-constructed puzzle that challenges and delights any crossword enthusiast.
Available Answers:
REVUE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 17 September 2025