Hello, puzzle aficionados and wordplay warriors!
Another day, another delightful grid to conquer, and boy, did today’s challenge offer some truly intriguing wordplay. As always, some entries pop right into place, while others require a bit more thoughtful contemplation, a deep dive into our mental lexicons, and perhaps a fresh cup of coffee. But it’s those head-scratching moments that make solving a good crossword clue so incredibly rewarding, isn’t it?
Today, we’re shining a spotlight on a particularly fascinating crossword clue that stands out for its multi-layered construction and its clever thematic connection to other parts of the puzzle. This isn’t just any ordinary crossword clue; it’s a revealer, a key, a very clever piece of the puzzle that unlocks the deeper meaning of several other seemingly disparate entries. For those of you who revel in the intricate dance of words and themes, this one was a real gem.
The crossword clue in question is:
“Survive an audition, and what one may do to the start of 18-, 23-, 36-, or 54-Across?“
At first glance, this crossword clue presents a couple of distinct challenges. The first part, “Survive an audition,” immediately brings to mind images of performers, nerve-wracking tryouts, and the ultimate triumph of securing a coveted role or spot. This often points us towards a term related to success in a competitive artistic field. Are we looking for a verb, a noun, an adjective? The phrasing “what one may do” hints strongly at an action or a state.
But then, the second part of this crossword clue introduces a whole new dimension: “and what one may do to the start of 18-, 23-, 36-, or 54-Across?” This is where the magic of the constructor truly shines through. Whenever a crossword clue references other numbered entries, especially with phrases like “the start of” or “the end of,” you know you’re dealing with a thematic element. This isn’t just a standalone definition; it’s the glue that binds together several other answers, revealing a hidden pattern or transformation.
Understanding how this crossword clue functions is crucial for unlocking the full potential of the puzzle. It tells us that the solution to this specific entry isn’t just a word; it’s an action or a concept that, when applied to the
beginning
of the words found at 18-, 23-, 36-, and 54-Across, creates a new, related word or phrase. This kind of wordplay is a hallmark of expertly crafted crosswords, turning what could be a simple grid into a cohesive and delightful intellectual exercise.
Think about it: what kind of action could apply to the
start
of various words to create a new meaning, especially one that ties back to the idea of succeeding at an audition? It suggests a manipulation, an addition, or a specific kind of linguistic operation. The brilliance lies in the constructor’s ability to find a common thread, a single action or concept, that links together disparate words in a meaningful and often amusing way.
Deciphering a multi-part crossword clue like this is always a thrill because it’s not just about knowing vocabulary; it’s about understanding the constructor’s clever mechanics. It pushes us to think outside the box, to consider not just definitions but also transformations, prefixes, and word extensions. If you’ve been pondering this elusive crossword clue, you’re not alone. It’s designed to make you pause, consider, and then, with a satisfying “aha!” moment, reveal its elegant solution.
Stay tuned as we break down this fantastic crossword clue and how it ties into the broader theme of today’s challenging yet utterly rewarding puzzle!
Available Answers:
MAKETHECUT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Monday’s Daily By Mary Winslow / Ed. Patti Varol