There’s a unique thrill that washes over you when you encounter a crossword clue that just
sings
. Not necessarily an easy one, but one that presents a delightful puzzle, where the surface reading paints a vivid picture, yet the underlying mechanics are cleverly hidden. It’s the kind of crossword clue that makes you pause, smile, and eagerly dive in, knowing a satisfying ‘aha!’ moment awaits.
Today, we’re shining a spotlight on just such a gem:
“Soldier crashes flash Daimler (5,7)“
.
At first glance, it’s a scene straight out of an action movie. A soldier, a flash Daimler – the imagery is immediate and striking. And that, dear solvers, is often the genius of a great cryptic crossword clue. The setter wants to lead you down a scenic path, distracting you with narrative, while the true meaning lies in carefully dissecting each word.
The structure of this particular crossword clue, with its (5,7) enumeration, immediately tells us we’re looking for a two-word phrase. This adds an extra layer of challenge and satisfaction. Instead of hunting for a single noun or verb, we’re piecing together a compound idea, or perhaps a descriptive phrase, that perfectly fits both the definition and the intricate wordplay.
When confronted with a multi-word answer crossword clue like this, the seasoned solver knows to separate the sheep from the goats – or rather, the definition from the wordplay. Where does the soldier come into play? Is that the direct definition, making the rest the wordplay? Or is ‘Soldier’ part of a more elaborate charade? These are the initial questions a shrewd solver asks when faced with a compelling crossword clue.
And what about ‘crashes flash Daimler’? The word ‘crashes’ itself can be a powerful indicator in cryptic crosswords, often hinting at anagrams, or perhaps words colliding or being embedded within others. And ‘flash Daimler’… a luxury car, certainly, but how does it integrate into the puzzle? Is it an object for an anagram? A container for specific letters? Or perhaps even a homophone or a pun related to speed or luxury? The possibilities, as ever with a brilliant crossword clue, are tantalizingly numerous.
The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue like “Soldier crashes flash Daimler” lies in its ambiguity and its elegance. It’s not about finding the answer instantly; it’s about savouring the journey of discovery. It’s about testing your vocabulary, your knowledge of cryptic conventions, and your ability to see beyond the obvious. Each component word – ‘soldier,’ ‘crashes,’ ‘flash,’ ‘Daimler’ – could hold a key to unlocking the solution. The interplay between them is what makes this crossword clue so engaging.
For many, the initial hurdle is often figuring out which part of the clue is the definition. Is ‘Soldier’ the direct definition, making the rest the wordplay? Or is ‘Soldier’ part of a larger cryptic definition where the wordplay is more interwoven? These are the delightful questions that bubble to the surface when tackling such a rich crossword clue, pushing you to explore all avenues of interpretation.
Ultimately, solving a crossword clue like this one is a testament to perseverance and creative thinking. It’s an intellectual exercise that sharpens the mind and provides a genuine sense of accomplishment. It reminds us why we love crosswords – the cleverness, the wit, and the sheer joy of unravelling a beautifully spun linguistic knot.
Take your time with “Soldier crashes flash Daimler (5,7)“. Ponder each element. Consider the synonyms, the possible cryptic indicators, and the myriad ways a setter can play with language. The solution, when it eventually clicks, will be all the more satisfying for the thought and effort you’ve invested. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
FIELDMARSHAL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 4 December 2025