Stuck on a Sticky Wicket: Tackling Troublesome Crossword Clues
Right then, crossword aficionados, let’s dive into another head-scratcher. Today’s culprit? A deceptively simple-looking clue that’s proving trickier than it initially appears: “Stick out if badly troubled with large omission (7)“.
Seven letters. Seems manageable, doesn’t it? But that’s the insidious charm of a good crossword clue. It lures you in with a false sense of security, only to throw a curveball that leaves you questioning your entire vocabulary.
The key, as always, is to dissect the clue. We’re dealing with a phrase that suggests a
result
of being “badly troubled with large omission”. This tells us we’re likely looking for a word that describes a visible consequence, something that
sticks out
as a result of some kind of hardship or deficiency.
Let’s break down the components. “Badly troubled” hints at a state of distress, anxiety, or difficulty. Think of synonyms: afflicted, burdened, tormented, distressed. These words all paint a picture of someone or something experiencing hardship. Keep these mental images simmering in the back of your mind.
Next, we have “large omission”. This is where the wordplay gets interesting. “Omission” itself implies something missing, something removed. The adjective “large” suggests the omission is significant, impactful. It’s not just a minor oversight, but a substantial absence.
This could be a literal omission – perhaps a part is missing from a physical object, or information is left out of a document. Or it could be more figurative. Maybe someone is lacking in a particular skill, quality, or resource. The possibilities are surprisingly broad.
Now, how do we combine these two elements? We need to find a word that describes something that “sticks out” because of being “badly troubled” while also implying a “large omission”. Think about situations where something becomes more noticeable due to a deficiency. A plant, for example, might “stick out” because it’s withered and discolored due to a lack of water.
Consider also the interplay between the words themselves. Is there a synonym for “badly troubled” that might have a clever connection to “large omission”? Crossword setters are masters of wordplay, so be open to unconventional interpretations.
Don’t get bogged down in overthinking, though. Sometimes the simplest solution is the right one. Try jotting down some words that spring to mind when you consider each part of the clue independently. Then, see if you can find a way to merge them into a single seven-letter word that fits the bill.
Remember to consider common crossword conventions. Look for abbreviations, hidden words, anagrams, and other sneaky tricks that crossword setters love to employ. The answer might be staring you in the face, disguised by clever wordplay.
Good luck, solvers! And remember, the joy of crossword solving lies not just in finding the answer, but in the journey of deciphering the clue. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
OBTRUDE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Tuesday, 18 November 2025