Signify (6): Cracking the Code of Crosswordese
Six letters. One deceptively simple word. The world of crossword clues often presents such conundrums, words that seem ubiquitous in everyday language, yet hold layers of potential meanings when nestled within the grid. “Signify (6)” is a prime example, a seemingly straightforward clue that can lead solvers down a rabbit hole of synonyms and associated concepts.
The beauty (and frustration) of crossword clues lies in their ambiguity. While a definition might seem obvious at first glance, seasoned solvers know to dig deeper, considering all possible interpretations. “Signify” itself boasts a rich semantic field. At its core, it means “to be an indication of,” but this simple definition blossoms into a myriad of possibilities.
Think about the nuances. Does the clue require a word implying
representation
? Consider synonyms like denote, symbolize, or represent itself. Perhaps the focus is on
communication
. In that case, words like convey, express, or communicate might fit the bill. The trick is to carefully analyze the surrounding clues and the letters you’ve already filled in, searching for overlaps in meaning that resonate within the puzzle’s specific context.
Beyond direct synonyms, crossword setters often employ clever wordplay, bending the conventional understanding of a word to create a more challenging puzzle. “Signify” could, for instance, be used in a slightly more archaic or figurative sense. Is there a hint of emphasis? Might “betoken” or “augur” be relevant, suggesting a foreshadowing or prediction?
Furthermore, context is king. Pay close attention to the overall theme of the crossword. Does the puzzle lean towards a particular subject matter – history, literature, science, perhaps even a specific area of pop culture? If so, the intended meaning of “Signify” may be subtly influenced by that theme. A clue in a science-themed puzzle might call for a technical term signifying a particular measurement or process.
Don’t discount the possibility of abbreviations or foreign language equivalents masquerading as the answer. Crosswords are rife with abbreviations and common foreign words, especially those derived from Latin or French. Is there an abbreviation that could somehow fit the definition of “signify”? Could a common Latin phrase, translated into English, capture the essence of the clue?
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, remember the cardinal rule of crossword solving: trust the crossing letters. The letters you’ve already filled in from intersecting clues are your most valuable allies. They serve as anchors, guiding you towards the correct solution by eliminating incompatible possibilities. If you have a ‘A’ in the second position of the answer, you can easily discard anything like “Denote” or “Convey”. Pay close attention to patterns, vowel-consonant sequences, and any other clues that might emerge from the existing letters.
Available Answers:
DENOTE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Sunday, 6 July 2025