There are some crossword clues that hit you like a crisp, autumn breeze, instantly familiar yet deceptively deep. Then there are others that make you pause, stare at the grid, and wonder if your palate has suddenly forgotten how to identify the most basic sensations. Today, we’re diving into one such delightful head-scratcher: ‘Tasting of apples or oranges, eg (6)‘.
If you’re a regular solver of the daily crossword, you know that sensory clues can be a real mixed bag. They demand a precision of language that often eludes us in everyday conversation. We might say an apple tastes ‘good’ or ‘sweet,’ but a crossword clue isn’t looking for our subjective enjoyment; it’s searching for the defining characteristic, the quintessential descriptor that fits a specific number of letters and interacts perfectly with its intersecting words. This particular type of crossword clue often tests not just our vocabulary, but our ability to discern the subtle nuances of words.
This particular crossword clue offers a fantastic example of how seemingly simple concepts can hide a nuanced answer. ‘Apples or oranges’ – two of the most ubiquitous fruits, known globally, each with its own distinct profile. Yet, the clue asks for a commonality, a shared essence in their
taste
. It’s not about their color, their shape, or their texture, but what they evoke on the tongue. The ‘eg’ (exempli gratia, for example) is crucial here. It tells us that apples and oranges are just two instances of a broader category of things that share this specific six-letter taste characteristic. This isn’t a crossword clue asking for ‘fruit’ or ‘citrus’; it’s more specific, more evocative, pushing us to think outside the literal box.
The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its ability to challenge our assumptions and expand our vocabulary. When confronted with a clue like ‘Tasting of apples or oranges, eg (6)‘, my first thought process goes something like this: What
is
the common thread? What sensation, what quality, could apply to both a Granny Smith and a Valencia orange, transcending their individual sweetness or tartness? It’s about stripping away the obvious and digging into the fundamental, almost primal, aspect of their flavor. Solving crosswords often involves this kind of mental distillation.
Often, these types of descriptive crossword clues send us down a rabbit hole of synonyms. We might brainstorm words like ‘fruity,’ ‘juicy,’ ‘fresh,’ ‘sweet,’ ‘sour,’ ‘tart.’ But then we count the letters. Six. And suddenly, many of our initial thoughts are discarded. This is where the true detective work of solving crosswords comes in. It’s not just about knowing words; it’s about knowing the
right
word, the one that perfectly encapsulates the essence demanded by the clue and fits the structural constraints of the grid. This precision is what makes every crossword puzzle a unique linguistic challenge.
The ‘eg’ truly is your best friend on this kind of crossword clue. It broadens the scope just enough to nudge your brain towards a more general, yet precise, adjective. Think beyond just apples and oranges. What other items, perhaps even beyond fruit, might share this fundamental taste characteristic? It’s about finding the underlying chemical or sensory profile that links these seemingly disparate examples. It’s a classic example of how a good crossword clue encourages deeper thought.
Cracking a crossword clue that delves into sensory experiences is incredibly satisfying. It’s a moment of ‘aha!’ where language, logic, and a touch of intuition combine. This isn’t just about filling squares; it’s about appreciating the artistry of clue construction and the richness of the English language. So, take a moment with ‘Tasting of apples or oranges, eg (6)‘. Think about the fundamental flavor profile, the shared essence that ties these fruits together. The answer is out there, waiting for you to unearth it, and when you do, it will taste all the sweeter. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
FRUITY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Wednesday, 9 July 2025