Every seasoned solver understands the unique thrill and occasional agony that comes with tackling a particularly elusive
crossword clue
. The daily grid presents a fresh set of challenges, a linguistic obstacle course designed to both delight and occasionally baffle. Today, we delve into one such intriguing
crossword clue
that perfectly encapsulates the wit and cleverness inherent in these beloved puzzles: “Some suppers contain stimulant (5)“.
At first glance, this
crossword clue
might seem straightforward, almost deceptively so. “Suppers” evokes images of evening meals, perhaps comforting and familiar. “Stimulant” immediately brings to mind energy, alertness, or even a kick-start to the day. The five-letter constraint then narrows the field, pushing the solver to think about concise, impactful words. But the brilliance of many
crossword clues
lies in their subtle misdirection, the way they lead your mind down one path only to reveal a completely different, yet perfectly logical, solution.
This particular
crossword clue
is a masterclass in how setters guide solvers through layers of meaning. When dissecting any challenging
crossword clue
, the initial step often involves identifying potential wordplay indicators. Here, the phrase “Some… contain” is a classic hint in certain types of
crossword clues
. It often signals what’s known as a ‘hidden word’ clue, where the answer is literally spelled out using consecutive letters
within
the words of the clue itself. The solution is embedded, waiting to be unearthed from its textual camouflage. This is a common technique employed in
crossword clues
to hide the answer in plain sight, rewarding careful observation more than encyclopedic knowledge.
However, a
crossword clue
of this nature can also suggest other forms of wordplay. Could it be an anagram, where the letters of “suppers” or “stimulant” are rearranged to form the answer? Or perhaps a cryptic definition, where the entire phrase hints at a more obscure meaning through word association or a double entendre? The beauty of a well-crafted
crossword clue
like this one is its ability to evoke multiple lines of thought, keeping the solver on their toes.
Another vital piece of information in any
crossword clue
is the number in parentheses – in this case, (5). This numerical constraint is a powerful tool, instantly eliminating countless possibilities and focusing the search. A five-letter word related to both “suppers” and “stimulant” under the guise of “contains” becomes the singular focus. Understanding the nuances of each word within a
crossword clue
is paramount; “some” isn’t just filler, and “contain” isn’t just a verb. They are deliberate signposts, guiding the astute solver towards the intended interpretation.
The interplay between “suppers” and “stimulant” in this
crossword clue
creates a fascinating lexical puzzle. Is it a food item that acts as a stimulant? Or something consumed during supper that fits the description? The joy comes from the mental gymnastics required to connect these seemingly disparate concepts into a single, cohesive five-letter word. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that makes you smile once you see the elegant solution, a testament to the setter’s ingenuity. The satisfaction of conquering a complex
crossword clue
is unparalleled, a small victory in the daily intellectual arena. This
crossword clue
serves as a perfect example of why this brain-teasing pastime continues to captivate millions around the globe.
Available Answers:
UPPER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 19 June 2025