The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its ability to challenge, mislead, and ultimately, enlighten. Today, we’re diving into one such intriguing example: “Reportedly remained sober (5)“. This isn’t just any straightforward definition; it’s a classic example of how crosswords use wordplay to add layers of complexity and fun to the puzzle-solving experience.
At first glance, this crossword clue might seem deceptively simple. We have a clear definition: ‘remained sober’. This immediately brings to mind concepts of abstinence, clarity of mind, and perhaps a general state of temperance. For many solvers, the initial thought process involves a quick mental scan for five-letter synonyms related to not being intoxicated or abstaining from drink. This is a common and entirely valid first step when tackling any crossword clue.
However, the real key to unlocking this particular crossword clue lies in a single, powerful word: ‘Reportedly’. This word isn’t just flavour text; it’s a crucial signal, a subtle nudge from the clue-setter guiding you towards a specific type of wordplay. In the lexicon of crossword puzzles, especially cryptic ones, ‘reportedly’ is almost universally a strong indicator of a homophone. This means you’re looking for a word that
sounds like
something else, even if it’s spelled differently. The challenge then shifts from merely finding a synonym to identifying a word that, when spoken, mimics another word or phrase that fits the definition.
The genius of such a crossword clue is how it forces your brain to shift gears. You’re no longer just thinking about meaning; you’re also considering sound. What five-letter word, when spoken, could sound like something meaning ‘remained sober’ or a related concept? Or, more commonly, what word that
means
‘remained sober’ might
sound like
something else entirely, with ‘reportedly’ serving as the bridge between the two? This distinction is vital for dissecting homophone clues. The ambiguity is part of the fun, pushing you to consider multiple angles for the same crossword clue.
The five-letter constraint is another critical piece of information. It immediately narrows down the vast possibilities, focusing your search to words of a specific length. This constraint is a double-edged sword: it limits potential answers, but it also means that every letter counts, and even a single incorrect guess can throw off your entire grid. For this “Reportedly remained sober (5)” crossword clue, the length is a precise filter that helps in confirming or discarding potential answers once the homophone aspect is considered.
Unpacking a crossword clue like this one is incredibly satisfying. It’s a testament to the solver’s ability to not only understand vocabulary but also to appreciate the nuances of language and its auditory qualities. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, what you
hear
is just as important as what you
read
in the pursuit of the correct solution. As we delve deeper into this specific puzzle, keep the homophone indicator firmly in mind. It’s the most significant hint to cracking what initially appears to be a straightforward but ultimately cunning crossword clue. Let’s explore the pathways to solving this engaging word puzzle.
Available Answers:
STAID.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 10 August 2025