Super Starter: A Culinary Crossword Conundrum
Hello, fellow word nerds and puzzle fiends! Today we’re diving into a particularly tantalizing crossword clue that’s been simmering in my mind like a complex broth. We’re talking about the clue: “Super starter awful – or delicious? (7)“
Immediately, the duality jumps out, doesn’t it? We’re presented with a fascinating contrast: “awful” versus “delicious.” The juxtaposition of these two diametrically opposed adjectives flags that this isn’t a straightforward description. It’s a wordplay clue, undoubtedly, and a clever one at that.
The key to unlocking this particular puzzle, I suspect, lies in how we interpret “starter” and “super.” “Starter” could refer to a culinary appetizer, of course. But the more abstract application of the word, where it refers to something or someone initiating something, is also possible.
“Super,” in this context, offers a similar branching of potential interpretations. It can simply mean “extremely” or “very,” amplifying either the “awful” or the “delicious” aspect. However, “super” can also point towards a specific element – a prefix, a modifier, or even a well-known brand or character. This ambiguity makes it exciting.
The length of the answer, indicated by the “(7),” is crucial. It dictates the parameters within which we must operate. We need a seven-letter word that somehow encapsulates this spectrum of awful-versus-delicious, modified or initiated by something “super.”
Considering the culinary angle, what ingredients or dishes could be perceived as intensely divisive? What culinary concoction could simultaneously elicit a grimace and a lip-smacking delight? Certain fermented foods spring to mind, known for their acquired taste. Then there are extremely spicy dishes, things that are at once painful and pleasurable.
Alternatively, if we move away from the literal culinary interpretation, “starter” might refer to someone who initiates a process or project. The “super” could be adding intensity to the nature of whatever they begin. Consider the kind of actions a ‘super’ starter could be involved with. Are we dealing with a moral puzzle with a bad starting decision eventually leading to good?
We can also explore wordplay, specifically anagrams or hidden words within the clue itself. Is “super starter” an instruction to rearrange letters in a specific manner? Are there letters cleverly concealed inside the phrasing? These are standard crossword solving tactics, but vital when dealing with clues as ambiguous as this one.
As always, the context provided by intersecting answers within the larger crossword grid is important. Do any of the crossing letters offer a helpful guide? Consider the theme of the crossword itself. Is it food-related, pop culture-related, or something else entirely? These contextual clues may point us in the right direction.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a good thesaurus. Examining synonyms for “awful,” “delicious,” and even “starter” and “super” might spark a creative connection. The answer might be a word you hadn’t initially considered.
So, there you have it: my initial thoughts on cracking this “Super starter awful – or delicious? (7)” crossword clue. It’s a real brain-bender, full of layered meaning and linguistic trickery. I’m looking forward to sharing more tips and tricks, to decipher and conquer those cryptic crosswords.
Available Answers:
SCRUMMY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 13 August 2025