A new week, a fresh grid, and a familiar feeling of staring at a seemingly straightforward but utterly elusive
crossword clue
. Today, that particular head-scratcher demanding our attention is “Start already!” It’s a phrase that many of us have likely uttered, or had directed at us, at some point in our lives. On the surface, it feels direct, almost impatient. But in the world of crosswords, directness often masks clever wordplay, a hidden meaning, or a subtle turn of phrase designed to make us pause and truly
think
.
This specific
crossword clue
presents an interesting challenge because of its imperative nature and the exclamation mark. Is it truly a command? Or is the exclamation simply indicating a strong emotion associated with the desired action? When approaching any
crossword clue
that feels like an everyday expression, it’s crucial to consider how the puzzle constructor might be playing with language. They could be looking for a literal interpretation, a slang term, or even something much more abstract.
Let’s break down the components of this intriguing
crossword clue
. First, we have “Start.” This word alone has a multitude of meanings: to begin, to initiate, to launch, to set in motion, to be startled. The context within the larger puzzle, such as surrounding letters or the theme of the day, can sometimes offer subtle hints, but often, a truly well-crafted
crossword clue
like this one stands on its own, relying on our general knowledge of vocabulary and idiom.
Then there’s “already.” This small but mighty word adds a layer of impatience or immediacy. It implies that the “start” is overdue, or should have happened some time ago. It’s not just “start,” it’s “start
now
, because you’re late, or because I’m tired of waiting.” This element is key. It takes the simple act of beginning and infuses it with a sense of urgency, expectation, or even exasperation. How does that impatience translate into a single word, or a short phrase, that fits the grid? That’s the beauty and the frustration of a good
crossword clue
.
When you encounter a
crossword clue
that’s an entire phrase, especially one with an exclamation, you need to think about common interjections, colloquialisms, or single words that encapsulate the entire sentiment. Is it a verb, a noun, an adverb, or perhaps an onomatopoeic word? The possibilities can seem endless, which is why systematic thinking is vital. Consider synonyms for “start” that also carry the weight of “already.” Think about the implied context – what situation would elicit such a command?
Many seasoned solvers know that the best way to tackle a tricky
crossword clue
is to brainstorm around its core meaning, but also to consider its less obvious interpretations. Could “Start already!” be a hint at a specific type of beginning, perhaps in a game, a race, or a performance? Could it refer to a feeling rather than an action? The more angles you consider, the closer you get to unlocking the constructor’s intent.
The satisfaction of finally cracking a challenging
crossword clue
like “Start already!” is immense. It’s a testament to the power of language and the cleverness of puzzle design. It forces us to slow down, examine words not just for their dictionary definitions, but for their emotional weight, their common usage, and their potential for double meanings. Keep thinking about this one, and you might just find that “aha!” moment lurking just around the corner, waiting to kick off the rest of your solve. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
GETONIT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Kaye Brown / Ed. Patti Varol