Navigating the Crossword Seas: A Tricky Clue on the Channel
Ahoy there, crossword aficionados! Today, we’re diving headfirst into a particularly intriguing six-letter clue that’s been making waves in the crossword community: “Shanghai sailor by the channel.” It’s a clue that conjures images of bustling ports, salty sea dogs, and the ever-present allure of international waterways. But what exactly is the setter getting at with this combination of location, profession, and geographical feature?
Let’s break down the components of this clue and explore the potential avenues for solving it. The first word, “Shanghai,” immediately transports us to the vibrant Chinese metropolis, a city steeped in history and a major global shipping hub. This geographical anchor is crucial, as it suggests the answer must be related to something found or originating in or near Shanghai.
The second element, “sailor,” points us towards a maritime profession. Think of the various roles on a ship: the captain, the mate, the deckhand, the bosun…the possibilities are vast. A “sailor” isn’t just anyone on a boat; it implies someone who works on a ship, typically involved in its operation and maintenance. This gives us a direction, something or someone involved in navigation or boat work.
Finally, we have “by the channel.” This is where the clue really starts to get interesting. A channel is a waterway, a passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water. It could be a natural channel, like a strait or a narrow sea, or a man-made channel, like a canal. So, we’re looking for something related to a sailor in Shanghai who is also associated with a channel or waterway.
The genius of this clue lies in its potential for misdirection. Does “by the channel” refer to a physical location – a specific channel near Shanghai? Or could it be a more metaphorical connection, perhaps relating to a characteristic of the sailor or their work? It’s a question that demands careful consideration and a willingness to think outside the box.
To solve this crossword clue, we need to consider synonyms for “sailor” that also fit the six-letter constraint. Are there any regional terms for sailors that are particularly relevant to Shanghai or East Asia? What kind of channels or waterways are common in the region, and could any of them be directly linked to a type of sailor? Think also on professions often related to sailors.
Consider the possibility of a slang term, something more colloquial than a standard nautical term. Crossword setters often employ wordplay and linguistic trickery, so don’t be afraid to explore unconventional definitions.
Also, the word “by” is crucial to understand. It might mean “near”, in a literal sense, but it may also mean “according to” or “in relation to”. Is the answer someone described as a sailor
according to
the Channel?
The key is to combine all these elements – the Shanghai connection, the maritime profession, and the channel association – to arrive at a solution that fits both the literal and figurative interpretations of the clue. Good luck, and happy solving! May your wits be sharp and your deductions lead you to the correct answer! The satisfaction of cracking a clever clue like this is what makes crossword solving so rewarding. Let me know in the comments what your initial thoughts are – I’m eager to discuss this tricky clue with you.
Available Answers:
ABDUCT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 27 July 2025