Welcome back, fellow word sleuths and linguistic adventurers! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of cracking a truly clever crossword clue, is there? And today, we’re diving into one that’s a brilliant example of how crosswords play with our expectations and the very sounds of language.
The particular crossword clue on our radar today is “Studies marsh grasses, we hear (5)“. At first glance, it paints a vivid picture, doesn’t it? Marsh grasses, swaying gently in a coastal breeze, perhaps – a very specific image that immediately steers our thoughts towards botany, ecology, or perhaps a particular type of wetland expert. But then, there’s that crucial little phrase tacked onto the end: “we hear.”
This isn’t just flavour text; it’s the solver’s golden ticket. When you encounter “we hear,” “audibly,” “reportedly,” or “said to be” in a crossword clue, your brain should immediately switch gears. You’re no longer looking for a direct definition; you’re looking for a word that
sounds like
something else. This is a classic homophone clue, a staple of cryptic crosswords and often a delightful surprise in more standard grids. These types of challenging crossword clues demand that you listen carefully, not just read.
So, with “Studies marsh grasses, we hear (5),” we’re asked to think about what “marsh grasses” might
sound like
. It’s a beautifully deceptive little instruction. Your task isn’t to find someone who literally studies
actual
marsh grasses. Instead, you need to imagine saying “marsh grasses” aloud, then consider what other words or phrases, particularly ones related to the act of “studies” or a field of study, might bear a striking vocal resemblance. And, of course, the final answer must fit the five-letter length constraint.
This particular crossword clue is a fantastic exercise in lateral thinking. It combines a specific subject matter – marsh grasses – with a sound-alike indicator, forcing you to bridge two seemingly disparate concepts through the power of phonetics. It’s the kind of cryptic crossword clue that can leave you scratching your head until that “aha!” moment hits, and suddenly the whole thing clicks into place with a satisfying thud.
Unpacking such a clever crossword clue is precisely what makes solving so addictive. It’s not just about vocabulary; it’s about understanding the subtle signals the setter is sending, the unwritten rules of the game, and the joy of a linguistic puzzle well-crafted. So, take a moment, say “marsh grasses” out loud a few times, and consider what ‘studies’ might suggest in terms of a person or a pursuit. The answer, when it comes, is often surprisingly elegant. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
READS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 16 June 2025