Decoding the Deceptive: A Redundancy Riddle
Welcome, crossword aficionados! Today, we’re diving into a clue that’s likely to have you questioning your vocabulary and logic – a clue brimming with self-referential trickery and a subtle nudge towards the world of excess. We’re grappling with “Something extra, redundantly.”
At first glance, this clue appears straightforward. “Something extra” immediately conjures ideas of surplus, supplement, or addition. But the inclusion of “redundantly” throws a wrench into the works. It’s a direct signal that we need to consider words that inherently imply excess, a doubling, or even a triple-dipping of meaning. We’re not just looking for something that adds; we’re looking for something that
already
contains the idea of ‘more’ within its very definition.
This type of clue is a classic example of the crossword setter’s art: using misdirection to lead solvers down a garden path. The common impulse is to think of literal additions – bonus points, extra helpings, supplementary information. While those concepts are certainly relevant to the “something extra” aspect, they fail to account for the crucial “redundantly” qualifier. The key lies in identifying a word where the ‘extra’ is baked right into the word itself.
Think about prefixes, suffixes, and root words. Do any of these trigger the notion of repetition or excess? Consider synonyms for ‘extra’ or ‘redundant’ and see if they spark connections. The best approach is to dissect the clue into its component parts, understanding the individual meaning of “something extra” and “redundantly,” and then seeking the intersection between the two.
Furthermore, pay attention to the length of the answer. The number of squares provided in the grid is a vital piece of information. This often helps narrow down the possibilities significantly. If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting clues, use these as anchors to test out potential answers. Does the letter combination create a viable word that aligns with the overall meaning of the clue?
Consider the tone of the clue as well. “Redundantly” suggests that the crossword setter isn’t playing it straight. This is probably not a straightforward definition, but rather a play on words, a homophone, or a clever literary reference. The use of an adverb like ‘redundantly’ adds another layer of sophistication. It suggests a state or condition, rather than a simple description. The answer is more than simply ‘extra’; it embodies the state of being excessively extra.
The brilliance of this clue lies in its self-awareness. It’s a riddle wrapped in an enigma, stuffed with a hint of mischievousness. So, put on your thinking cap, embrace the ambiguity, and allow yourself to be guided by the subtle nudges of the clue. The answer is out there, waiting to be uncovered – a testament to the power of words and the joy of cracking the crossword code. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
ADDEDBONUS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Universal Freestyle 199 By Amie Walker and Amanda Rafkin