There’s a unique thrill that comes with unraveling a particularly elegant crossword clue, isn’t there? That moment when the words just slot into place, revealing an answer that feels both obvious and brilliantly hidden. Today, we’re taking a closer look at a phrase that often graces the grids and prompts a quiet nod of appreciation from solvers: “Smooths, as the way.”
This isn’t just any ordinary crossword clue; it’s one that immediately conjures images and actions, suggesting a process rather than a static object. The beauty of this specific crossword clue lies in its active nature, urging us to think about how paths are prepared, how obstacles are cleared, and how journeys are made less arduous.
Consider the verb “smooths.” What does it imply? It suggests an action of reduction, of making something even, frictionless, or more agreeable. Think about a rough surface being polished until it gleams, or a crumpled fabric pressed flat. It’s about refinement, about removing the bumps and the snags that impede progress. This isn’t just a literal action; it extends into the metaphorical realm with significant ease.
Then there’s the crucial qualifier: “as the way.” This tells us we’re not just smoothing
anything
; we’re specifically addressing a path, a course, a journey, or even a future trajectory. It’s about facilitation, about making the passage easier for someone or something. Imagine a diplomat paving the way for negotiations, an engineer clearing a route for construction, or perhaps even a friend offering comfort to make a difficult situation more bearable. In each instance, there’s an active effort to ensure a smoother transition or progression.
When you put “smooths” and “as the way” together, you get a powerful concept. It encapsulates the act of preparation, of making conditions optimal for what is to come. It speaks to foresight, effort, and an intention to create an unhindered progression. This kind of descriptive crossword clue often requires us to think beyond the most literal interpretation and consider the broader implications of the action.
For any seasoned solver, encountering such a crossword clue is a familiar pleasure. It tests your vocabulary, certainly, but also your understanding of idiomatic expressions and the subtle nuances of language. The answer isn’t typically obscure; rather, it’s a common, everyday verb that, when placed in this specific context, gains a depth that makes it a satisfying solve. It’s the kind of cryptic crossword clue that reminds you why you love these puzzles in the first place – the elegant simplicity that masks a clever linguistic challenge.
So, the next time you encounter “Smooths, as the way” in your daily crossword clue, take a moment to appreciate the verb in action. It’s a testament to the power of language and the cleverness of clue writers to evoke so much with so few words. It truly embodies the spirit of preparing the ground for what lies ahead, making every step a little less taxing.
Available Answers:
GREASES.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0720-25 NY Times Crossword 20 Jul 25, Sunday