The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its ability to be simultaneously direct and playfully deceptive. Take, for instance, the seemingly straightforward challenge: “Start of the working week (6)“. At first glance, it appears almost too simple, yet the careful solver knows that even the most benign crossword clue can hide a subtle twist. This particular phrase is a classic, often appearing in quick crosswords and occasionally setting the tone for a more complex cryptic grid.
Deciphering this particular crossword clue begins with a foundational understanding of what “the working week” generally implies within the context of most English-speaking cultures, especially those reflected in popular puzzles. It speaks to the standard five-day period of employment or education, widely observed from one day to another. While some professions might operate on different schedules, a general crossword clue nearly always defaults to the most common societal understanding. The phrase itself is universally recognized, making the initial hurdle of interpretation relatively low for this specific crossword clue.
Next, we hone in on the word “Start.” In many crossword clue scenarios, “start” can have multiple meanings: the beginning of a word, an initial letter, or a figurative genesis. However, for a straightforward, non-cryptic crossword clue like this, “start” almost invariably refers to the literal commencement of the period described. It’s not looking for a synonym for ‘beginning’ in a poetic sense, but rather the actual point in time when the working week is universally considered to begin. Pinpointing the precise ‘start’ referenced by a crossword clue can be surprisingly tricky if you overthink it, but here, simplicity is key.
Then, there’s the crucial numerical hint: (6). The letter count in any crossword clue is your most reliable guide, an invaluable sieve that filters out countless incorrect possibilities. For “Start of the working week (6)“, this six-letter constraint immediately narrows down the field significantly. It eliminates any potential answers that might spring to mind but don’t conform to the exact length. Every seasoned crossword clue solver knows that matching the word length is half the battle won, and it’s especially powerful when the clue is as direct as this one. You’re not just looking for
any
word that fits the description, but specifically one with precisely six letters.
When tackling any crossword clue, a common strategy involves brainstorming potential answers that fit the descriptive phrase, then cross-referencing them with the letter count. For “Start of the working week,” you’d consider the various days of the week, pondering which one most accurately and commonly represents the start of that standard five-day work cycle. This process of elimination, guided by the (6) constraint, quickly focuses your thoughts. It’s about finding the perfect lexical fit that marries the descriptive power of the crossword clue with its numerical requirement.
Ultimately, solving a compelling crossword clue brings a unique sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s an easy crossword clue or a genuinely baffling one, the journey of connecting the linguistic dots to arrive at the perfect answer is incredibly satisfying. This straightforward yet engaging crossword clue serves as a perfect example of how clear language combined with a precise length indicator can lead you directly to the solution. Master a crossword clue like this, and you’re well on your way to tackling much larger grids with confidence and skill.
Available Answers:
MONDAY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Friday, 3 October 2025