Some of them are obviously lying in a cunning way (5)
Decoding Deception: Cracking That Tricky 5-Letter Crossword Clue
Ah, the crossword puzzle. A delightful mental workout, a test of vocabulary, and sometimes, a frustrating battle of wits. Today’s challenge comes in the form of a particularly sneaky clue: “Some of them are obviously lying in a cunning way (5).” Five letters, seemingly straightforward, yet brimming with deceptive possibilities.
This clue plays on our understanding of language, relying on double meanings and clever wordplay. The phrase “lying in a cunning way” immediately points towards deception, falsehood, or perhaps even a cleverly concealed secret. But what
are
these things that are capable of such artful deception? Are we looking for a type of person, a group of individuals, or perhaps something more abstract?
The challenge lies in recognizing the subtle shift in meaning. The clue doesn’t directly state
who
is lying, but rather
what
is doing the lying – or, more accurately, what
can
be interpreted as lying. This opens up a wide range of possibilities, demanding a thorough search of our mental lexicon.
Consider the various interpretations of “lying.” We can think of physical positioning – lying down, for example – but this seems unlikely given the addition of “in a cunning way.” The clue points toward a more metaphorical sense of lying, suggesting deceit or falsehood.
Think about the words associated with cunning and deception. We might consider words linked to trickery, manipulation, or falsehood itself. Are we looking for a type of person known for their deceptive nature? A group of individuals acting in concert? Or perhaps something more abstract, like a type of statement or action?
The beauty of a cryptic crossword is its capacity to force us to think outside the box. We’re not simply searching for a synonym, but unraveling a small, carefully constructed riddle. The “5” further narrows down the field, but the challenge remains, to sift through the multitude of potential words, weighing each for its suitability.
To solve this, we need to consider each word’s various meanings and connotations. Remember that crossword clues frequently use double meanings and wordplay to mislead and challenge the solver. Don’t let the apparent simplicity fool you. This five-letter word is a master of disguise, patiently awaiting its exposure. Good luck, and happy puzzling! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. And remember to share your solutions (or your struggles!)
Available Answers:
SLYLY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 15 November 2024