Crumbs and Crickey! Diving into a Tricky Crossword Clue
Right then, crossword aficionados, let’s untangle a real head-scratcher, shall we? We’re staring down the barrel of a six-letter word, hinted at by the phrase “Small pieces of bread – crikey!”
This clue presents us with a delicious (or perhaps frustrating) combination of direct definition and a good old-fashioned exclamation. Our task is to bridge the gap between tangible, edible fragments and a surprised utterance.
Let’s break down the components:
“Small pieces of bread”
: This is, ostensibly, our straightforward definition. We’re looking for a word that accurately describes the diminutive remnants of bread. Think about where you might find these “small pieces.” Are they the result of a careless slice? The aftermath of a particularly vigorous sandwich consumption? Or perhaps a byproduct of a more deliberate process? Consider synonyms for “small” and “pieces” – fragments, specks, bits, remnants, shards. The more mental pathways we explore, the better equipped we are to identify the solution.
“Crikey!”
: Ah, the exclamation! This is where the clue veers off the beaten path and invites us to think laterally. “Crikey!” is a classic expression of surprise, astonishment, or even mild alarm. Originating from the UK (though often associated with a certain Australian wildlife enthusiast!), it adds a layer of playful misdirection. How does this relate to bread? That’s the million-dollar question!
The challenge lies in finding a word that
simultaneously
fulfills both conditions. It must be a valid six-letter word, of course.
So, how do we approach this tricky customer?
Here are a few strategies to consider:
Think Figuratively
: Often, crossword clues use a figurative interpretation of a word. Could “crikey!” somehow
represent
the act of creating small pieces of bread? Or perhaps it describes the reaction
to
finding these pieces somewhere unexpected?
Consider Homophones
: While less likely with an exclamation, it’s always worth a fleeting thought. Could “crikey!” sound like something else that
does
relate to bread?
Anagrams
: Is there a hidden anagram within the clue itself? While not directly an anagram clue, sometimes a clever setter will subtly incorporate anagram-like elements to tease the solver.
Context is King
: Don’t forget to consider the surrounding clues and intersecting letters in your crossword. These intersecting letters can be invaluable in narrowing down possibilities and confirming potential solutions. They act as anchors, guiding you toward the correct answer.
Brainstorm and Free Associate
: Write down any words that come to mind when you think of “small pieces of bread” and “crikey!” Don’t censor yourself; let your mind wander. You never know what unexpected connections you might uncover. Even seemingly unrelated words can sometimes trigger the eureka moment!
Remember, crossword solving is a game of patience, deduction, and a little bit of luck. Keep turning the clue over in your mind, explore different angles, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. The satisfaction of cracking a particularly challenging clue is well worth the effort!
Happy solving, and may your bread be plentiful (and your crossword solutions even more so)! Let me know in the comments what approaches you take when faced with tricky clues like this!
Available Answers:
CRUMBS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 6 July 2025