Robust enough to take a leathering? (9)
“Robust enough to take a leathering? (9)“: Cracking the Code
Ah, the joy of a tricky crossword clue. Those moments where you stare at the grid, the letters swimming before your eyes, the frustration mounting. But then, the penny drops! That feeling of satisfaction, of victory over the cryptic language, is simply unmatched.
Today, we’re tackling a particularly intriguing clue:
“Robust enough to take a leathering? (9)“
. This one has the potential to leave even seasoned solvers scratching their heads.
Let’s break it down.
“Robust enough to take a leathering”
: The clue immediately suggests something strong and resilient. It hints at an object or material that can withstand punishment.
“(9)”
: This tells us the answer will have nine letters.
So, where do we begin?
The Art of Deciphering Cryptic Clues
Crossword clues are a fascinating form of wordplay. They often involve a combination of literal meaning, metaphors, and hidden puns.
Here’s a quick guide to the elements often found in cryptic clues:
Double Meaning:
Many clues have a double meaning, one literal and one figurative. You’ll need to figure out both to arrive at the answer.
Anagrams:
The letters in the clue might be rearranged to form the answer.
Hidden Words:
The answer might be hidden within the clue itself, either forward or backward.
Definitions:
The clue might directly define the answer, but with a twist.
Applying the Clues to Our Puzzle
Let’s apply these principles to our clue: “Robust enough to take a leathering? (9)“.
“Leathering”
: This suggests a beating, something tough enough to endure punishment.
“Robust enough”
: This highlights the need for resilience and strength.
Keep in mind that the answer must have nine letters.
Think about materials or objects that are known for their durability. What words come to mind?
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different word combinations, even if they seem farfetched at first. The answer is out there, waiting to be uncovered.
Happy solving!
Available Answers:
STRAPPING.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Tuesday, 29 October 2024