The crossword clue “State that borders Canada” is a classic for a reason – it seems simple, yet holds a delightful geographical complexity that keeps even the most seasoned solvers on their toes. This seemingly straightforward prompt often leads to a moment of delightful head-scratching, as there isn’t just one state that fits the bill! For anyone tackling their daily crossword puzzle, encountering a clue like this immediately brings a smile, a slight furrow of the brow, and a mental scroll through the map of North America.
When you’re faced with this particular crossword clue, the first thing to remember is the sheer number of states that share a boundary with Canada. From the Atlantic to the Pacific, a significant portion of the United States coastline touches the Canadian border. This means the specific answer you’re looking for depends heavily on the context of your crossword puzzle grid. Is it a short word or a long one? Does it start with a ‘M’ or an ‘N’? These are the crucial questions that transform a broad geographical fact into a pinpointed crossword solution.
Crossword setters are masters of misdirection, even with what appears to be a direct geographical crossword clue. While “State that borders Canada” is quite literal, the challenge lies in filtering through the numerous possibilities. You might find yourself thinking of the Great Lakes states, the Pacific Northwest, or the New England region. Each area offers a valid contender, which is why simply knowing the states isn’t always enough to nail the answer immediately. This is where the art of crossword solving truly comes into play – relying on those precious crossing letters.
To successfully navigate this type of crossword clue, consider your strategy. First, assess the number of letters in the answer slot. This immediately eliminates many options. A three-letter slot will point you in a vastly different direction than a nine-letter slot. Next, look intently at the letters you’ve already filled in from intersecting clues. These are your most valuable allies. Does the fifth letter have to be a ‘G’? Does it end with an ‘E’? Each confirmed letter acts as a beacon, narrowing down the potential states dramatically.
Another layer of thought for this crossword clue is to consider if the setter might be hinting at something more specific within the broad category. While “State that borders Canada” is generic, sometimes companion clues or a themed puzzle might offer subtle nudges towards a particular region or characteristic of one of those states. For instance, if other clues revolve around national parks or specific waterways, it might subtly guide you to the correct state bordering Canada. However, in the absence of such hints, it’s all about length and existing letters.
Solving a crossword clue like “State that borders Canada” is a fantastic exercise in geographical knowledge combined with logical deduction. It’s a testament to the satisfying feeling of sifting through possibilities, eliminating the incorrect ones, and finally, with a flourish, writing in that perfect word that fits snugly into your crossword puzzle. Don’t let the apparent simplicity fool you; this crossword clue is a clever little challenge designed to test your knowledge and your solving acumen. Keep those atlases (or mental maps) ready, and enjoy the journey of finding the right state for your grid!
Available Answers:
IDAHO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Doubles Down By Frederick Lavoie