Crossword puzzles often present us with fascinating challenges, and some clues stand out for their cleverness, demanding a double-take before the “aha!” moment hits. Today, we’re diving into just such a gem, a crossword clue that blends a direct description with a subtle, yet crucial, structural hint. It’s the kind of clue that elevates the humble grid-filling exercise into a true linguistic puzzle, reminding us why we love tackling every new crossword clue we encounter.
The clue in question reads:
S-shaped hairstyle (In this clue’s answer, note the first two and last two letters)
.
At first glance, this might appear to be a straightforward definition. “S-shaped hairstyle” immediately brings to mind certain classic looks. Are we talking about a marcel wave, a finger wave, or something else entirely? Many hairstyles throughout history have embraced elegant curves and undulations that could be described as S-shaped. This initial interpretation is where many solvers begin, brainstorming various coiffures that fit the bill. But a seasoned crossword enthusiast knows to pay close attention to every detail, especially parenthetical additions. They are rarely there just for decoration.
The real intrigue of this particular crossword clue lies in its second part: “(In this clue’s answer, note the first two and last two letters)”. This isn’t just an extra piece of information; it’s a vital key, guiding us towards the specific solution and away from mere synonyms. This type of hint is a common, yet always engaging, device in the world of crossword clues. It directs our focus to the internal structure of the word itself, suggesting a layer of wordplay that goes beyond a simple definition.
So, how do we approach such a layered crossword clue?
First, let’s consider the definitional aspect: “S-shaped hairstyle.” Brainstorming here is essential. What specific styles are renowned for their distinct S-curves? Think about historical fashion, iconic looks from different eras, or even modern takes on classic styles. The more options you can generate, the better your chances of finding one that eventually aligns with the structural hint. This stage of solving any challenging crossword clue is about broad thinking and drawing upon your general knowledge.
Next, we turn our attention to the parenthetical instruction. What does “note the first two and last two letters” imply for the answer to a crossword clue?
Could it mean that those specific letters form another word or a related concept?
Perhaps they spell out something that cleverly reinterprets “S-shaped” in a surprising way?
It might hint at a word that uses those letters in a unique pattern, or even creates a visual or phonetic representation of the “S” shape or the idea of a “note.”
Sometimes, these hints point to a hidden word, a reversal, or a common phrase cleverly embedded within the solution itself. This emphasis on specific letters within the answer is a hallmark of sophisticated crossword clue construction.
The beauty of this crossword clue is that it forces you to synthesize both parts. You can’t just find any S-shaped hairstyle; you must find
the
S-shaped hairstyle whose first two and last two letters somehow play a significant role, as indicated by the clue. The answer isn’t merely described; it’s intricately woven into the fabric of the hint itself. This interplay is what makes solving a crossword clue of this caliber so deeply satisfying.
When you’re faced with a crossword clue that has such a detailed secondary instruction, it’s crucial to cycle back and forth between the definition and the hint. Does a potential hairstyle solution fit the “S-shaped” description? If so, does its specific letter pattern (first two, last two) resonate with the “note” instruction? This iterative process is the hallmark of cracking the most cunning crossword clues. Keep exploring how the letters themselves might hold a subtle message, guiding you directly to the elegant solution.
Unraveling this type of crossword clue provides a wonderful mental workout, sharpening your linguistic instincts and your ability to spot clever wordplay. It’s a reminder that every crossword clue, no matter how complex, holds its own unique key, waiting to be discovered.
Available Answers:
FINGERWAVE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Divided Numbers By Adam Simpson