A truly captivating crossword clue has the power to make you pause, ponder, and perhaps even smile at its sheer brilliance. Today, we’re dissecting one that exemplifies the wit and cleverness so often found nestled within the grid: “Terse, like all the words in this clue? (12)“. This isn’t just any old definition; it’s a masterful piece of self-reference, a puzzle wrapped inside its own description, and a fantastic example of what makes solving a good crossword clue such a rewarding experience.
The immediate charm of this particular crossword clue lies in its meta-narrative. “Terse, like all the words in
this clue
?” The constructor invites us to turn our analytical gaze not outward, but inward, upon the very words forming the challenge itself. And indeed, a quick scan confirms the observation: “Terse,” “like,” “all,” “the,” “words,” “in,” “this,” “clue” are, without exception, short, sharp, and to the point. This kind of playful, self-aware wordplay elevates a simple crossword clue from a linguistic task to an engaging intellectual game.
The concept of “terse” is, in essence, the very soul of crossword construction. Every single crossword clue is meticulously crafted for brevity. There’s an inherent elegance in the economy of language required to fit a definition, a pun, or a cryptic instruction into a concise phrase. Constructors are wordsmiths who understand the power of every syllable, every letter. They strip away the unnecessary, leaving behind a compact package that, ideally, provides just enough information (or just enough misdirection!) to lead the diligent solver to the correct answer. This specific crossword clue not only embodies terseness but explicitly points out its own adherence to this fundamental principle, making it a joy for any seasoned crossword solver.
Approaching a self-referential crossword clue like this demands a specific strategy.
First, a thorough
deconstruction
is key. What is the primary concept being conveyed? “Terse.” The second part of the clue, “like all the words in this clue?”, serves as both an illustrative example and a crucial hint regarding the
nature
of that terseness. It’s not just about being concise generally; it’s about being concise in a particular way – specifically, through the use of short, often single-syllable words.
Next, consider the
length
of the answer: (12). This immediately tells us we’re not looking for a simple synonym like “short” or “brief.” We need a more expansive term, a single word or phrase that accurately describes something characterized by the use of short words. What is the specific linguistic term for text or speech composed primarily of short words? This thought process is where the true fun of solving a challenging crossword clue begins. It’s about moving beyond direct synonyms and delving into the deeper characteristics of language itself.
Finally, the moment of
realization
often arrives with a satisfying click. When the 12-letter solution aligns perfectly with both the definition of “terse” and the self-referential observation that the clue itself consists of short words, it’s a testament to the crossword constructor’s ingenuity. It’s a moment that reminds us why we love to engage with these daily brain teasers, pushing our vocabulary and lateral thinking.
This type of crossword clue is a beautiful example of how puzzles can transcend simple vocabulary tests to become miniature works of art, inviting us to appreciate the nuances of language and the cleverness of its arrangement. It’s a brilliant crossword clue that will undoubtedly resonate with anyone who appreciates the craft of puzzle making.
Available Answers:
MONOSYLLABIC.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 9 October 2025