Every seasoned crossword solver knows the peculiar joy and occasional frustration that comes with deciphering a well-crafted crossword clue. Some appear straightforward, almost too simple, only to reveal layers of complexity upon closer inspection. Others seem utterly baffling until that single, elusive synonym or turn of phrase clicks into place. Today, we’re considering a particularly elegant example that perfectly illustrates the power of a finely tuned definition: ‘Sharp (hearing) (5).’
The word ‘sharp’ itself is a lexical chameleon, capable of shifting its meaning dramatically depending on its surroundings. In a culinary context, it might describe a tangy cheese or a piquant flavor. Physically, it could refer to a keen edge of a knife, a pointed object, or a sudden, abrupt turn. Intellectually, it denotes quick wit or keen observation. Musically, a ‘sharp’ note raises its pitch, creating a distinct sonic quality. For a crossword solver, this multi-faceted nature means that ‘sharp’ is a prime candidate for clever wordplay, often leading solvers down delightful rabbit holes of definition. This broad usage makes ‘sharp’ a common, yet often tricky, keyword in any daily crossword clue.
However, the addition of that seemingly innocuous parenthetical, ‘(hearing)’, transforms this common word from a general descriptor into a highly specific one, narrowing the field considerably for any astute crossword solver tackling this crossword clue. This qualifier is the key, the essential guidepost that directs our linguistic exploration. It tells us that we’re not looking for a synonym of ‘sharp’ in its general sense, nor its meaning related to vision or intellect, but rather exclusively how it pertains to auditory perception. What kind of sharpness are we talking about when it comes to hearing? Is it about intensity, clarity, or a heightened sense of perception? This contextual precision is what elevates a good crossword clue from a simple vocabulary test to a genuine puzzle.
And then there’s the five-letter constraint. Many a challenging crossword clue is resolved not just by understanding the definition, but by fitting that understanding into the grid’s precise architecture. A five-letter answer forces a particular kind of conciseness, demanding the most direct and fitting term for ‘sharp’ as it relates to hearing. This isn’t a long, descriptive phrase, but a single, potent word that encapsulates the entire concept. It’s the kind of five-letter word that, once discovered for a compelling crossword clue, often feels so obvious you wonder how it eluded you for so long.
This specific crossword clue ‘Sharp (hearing) (5)‘ therefore presents a classic miniature puzzle. It’s a test of vocabulary, contextual understanding, and the ability to pivot rapidly between different shades of meaning. For solvers, it’s a rewarding journey from a broad term to a precise, context-bound answer. The beauty lies in the elegant economy of the clue – just two words and a number, yet it prompts a fascinating mental sprint through synonyms and definitions. It’s a prime example of how even a seemingly simple crossword clue can hide a rich linguistic challenge, inviting us to delve deeper into the precise usage of words and revel in the satisfaction of uncovering that perfect fit for the grid. The pursuit of such a solution is what makes the world of crossword puzzles endlessly captivating for every dedicated solver.
Available Answers:
ACUTE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Wednesday, 17 September 2025