There are those moments when a crossword clue just pops up on the grid, seemingly innocent, deceptively simple, and yet it stops you dead in your tracks. Today, we’re zeroing in on one such linguistic puzzle: “Stick fast (6).” At first glance, it might appear straightforward. “Stick”? We all know what that means, right? Adhere, glue, bond. And “fast”? Quick, rapid, speedy. But seasoned solvers know that the beauty, and indeed the challenge, of a compelling crossword clue lies in its ability to dance between common understanding and subtle, sometimes archaic, meanings.
This particular six-letter crossword clue immediately presents a delightful ambiguity. Is it about something attaching itself with great speed? Or is “fast” being used in its less common, yet equally valid, sense of being firmly fixed, resolute, or unmoving? The English language, in all its glorious complexity, is a playground for setters, and “Stick fast (6)” is a prime example of a clue that leverages this richness. Every time you encounter a crossword clue like this, it’s an invitation to delve deeper into the nuances of vocabulary, to re-examine words we use every day but perhaps don’t fully appreciate in their multifaceted glory.
The parenthetical (6) is, as always, our crucial guide. Six letters. It’s enough to suggest a variety of possibilities, yet restrictive enough to eliminate many wild guesses. It forces us to think precisely, to search for that single, perfect word that encapsulates both ‘stick’ and ‘fast’ in their most appropriate crossword clue context. Is it a verb? An adjective? The phrasing “Stick fast” leans heavily towards a verb phrase, implying an action of adhering firmly.
Think about the synonyms that might come to mind for “adhere firmly.” Do any of them perfectly fit a six-letter slot? This is where the real fun of a challenging crossword clue begins. It’s not just about recalling words; it’s about discerning the
exact
shade of meaning intended by the setter. The journey to solve a tricky crossword clue often involves a mental stroll through various semantic fields, discarding words that are close but not quite right, until that elusive perfect fit emerges from the linguistic fog.
The art of solving a good crossword clue like “Stick fast (6)” lies in understanding the setter’s mind. They’re not trying to trick you unfairly, but rather to lead you down a path of contemplation, to stretch your vocabulary, and to make you appreciate the subtle power of words. So, before you rush to any conclusions, take a moment. Consider the various interpretations of “stick” and “fast.” Ponder the elegance of a six-letter word that can capture such a specific action or state. This is more than just a puzzle; it’s a linguistic adventure. Unpacking a concise crossword clue like this one is a testament to the satisfying intellectual workout that crosswords provide, making you a sharper and more precise thinker with every grid you tackle. Get ready to explore the possibilities and truly
stick fast
to the meaning!
Available Answers:
ADHERE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Metro Quick Crossword Clues Wednesday, 8 October 2025
Metro Quick Crossword Clues Thursday, 26 June 2025