Today, we’re diving deep into a fascinating little puzzle, a crossword clue that might have given you pause, made you scratch your head, and then, hopefully, led you down a delightful path of deduction. The power of a single phrase in a crossword grid to spark such mental gymnastics is truly what makes this hobby so captivating. We’re talking about that gem: “Still red, say.”
At first glance, this crossword clue seems deceptively simple. “Still red.” What could be easier? But then comes that crucial, often mischievous, little word: “say.” And suddenly, the landscape of possibilities expands, inviting us into the glorious world of crossword wordplay.
When you encounter a crossword clue like “Still red, say,” the immediate instinct might be to list things that are, well, still red. A sunset, perhaps? A cardinal in winter? A perfectly ripe apple that hasn’t spoiled? While these are all perfectly valid examples of “still red” things, the “say” often signals a different kind of semantic journey. It’s an invitation to consider an alternative phrasing, an example, or a specific context where “still red” takes on a particular meaning. This is where the magic of a good crossword clue truly shines, challenging us to look beyond the obvious.
Let’s break down the components. “Still” implies continuity, persistence, or an unchanging state. Something that remains, endures, or continues to be red. It’s not just red
now
, but red
consistently
. This isn’t just a fleeting crimson; it’s a steadfast scarlet. Then there’s “red.” Red is a color, yes, but in crosswords, colors are rarely just colors. Red can symbolize passion, anger, danger, revolution, or even specific political affiliations. It’s a hue rich with connotations, waiting to be explored.
And then, the maestro of misdirection (or clarification, depending on your perspective): “say.” In the realm of a crossword clue, “say” can act as an indicator for an example, an alternative way of phrasing something, or sometimes, a phonetic hint – although that seems less likely here given the straightforward nature of “still red.” More often, it’s prompting us to think, “What’s another way to express something that is ‘still red’?” Or, “What is an
example
of something that is ‘still red’ that fits the character count and the surrounding letters?” This is the essence of cracking a tricky crossword clue: understanding the subtle signals embedded within the phrasing.
The art of solving a crossword clue often lies in appreciating these layers. Is it a literal interpretation? A metaphorical one? Is the clue hinting at a specific type of word or a common phrase? “Still red, say” pushes us to consider all these angles. It forces us to stretch our minds, to look for connections we might not initially see, and to appreciate the cleverness of the constructor.
Consider the various contexts where something might be described as “still red.” Is it about a dye that doesn’t fade? A political party that retains its original ideology? A historical event whose impact remains vivid? Each path offers a fresh perspective on this intriguing crossword clue. This isn’t just about finding
a
red thing; it’s about finding
the
red thing that encapsulates the persistent quality suggested by “still” and fits the “say” structure.
The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue like this is that it doesn’t give away its secrets easily. It requires patience, a bit of lateral thinking, and sometimes, a return to it after tackling other parts of the grid. The surrounding letters, of course, are your best friends in narrowing down the possibilities once you’ve truly wrestled with the meaning. But before you even get there, understanding the nuances of the clue itself is paramount.
So, the next time you encounter “Still red, say” or any similarly worded crossword clue, take a moment. Don’t rush to the obvious. Deconstruct it. Ponder the implications of each word. Because within that careful construction lies not just an answer, but a delightful journey of discovery. Happy solving, fellow word enthusiasts! Keep pushing those boundaries, and you’ll master every crossword clue that comes your way.
Available Answers:
RARE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 1029-25 NY Times Crossword 29 Oct 25, Wednesday