Today’s daily crossword puzzle brought forth a truly evocative and wonderfully constructed crossword clue: “Tests, as a microphone.” Oh, the joy of a clue that paints such a vivid picture while simultaneously demanding a very specific, often singular, type of action! This particular crossword clue is a prime example of the “X, as a Y” construction, a classic type of wordplay that seasoned solvers and newcomers alike often encounter.
When tackling any crossword clue of this nature, the first step is always to break down the components. Here, we have “Tests” and “a microphone,” linked by the descriptive “as.” The phrase “as a microphone” tells us
how
the “tests” are performed, or perhaps
what
is being tested
through
the lens of a microphone. It’s not just any test; it’s a test specifically related to the function or typical interaction with a microphone.
Think about the quintessential image that springs to mind when you consider a microphone being tested. Is it someone meticulously calibrating it with complex equipment? Perhaps. But in the world of crossword clues, especially the kind found in your morning paper or online puzzle, the answers tend to lean towards the more common, everyday actions. What do people typically do when handed a microphone to see if it’s working? What are the immediate, almost instinctive, actions? This particular crossword clue wants that specific, common interaction.
The word “Tests” also carries significant weight. It’s plural. This immediately signals that our desired answer will also be a plural noun or verb form. This is a vital piece of information when you’re trying to fit the answer into a grid. Many a solver has been stumped by forgetting to account for a simple pluralization, only to have the solution click into place once that ‘S’ is added or removed. The number of letters in the grid entry is, of course, the ultimate guide, but the grammatical form provided by the crossword clue itself is the first hint.
This kind of crossword clue often relies on a common idiom, a frequently observed behavior, or a universally understood action. It’s not about obscure technical terms, but rather the collective human experience with a particular object. The microphone, in this context, isn’t just a piece of audio equipment; it’s an object of common interaction, often preceding a speech, a performance, or even a simple announcement. The “tests” are those brief, preliminary actions designed to confirm functionality.
The beauty of this type of crossword clue lies in its elegance. It presents a simple scenario, yet it requires you to filter out all but the most immediate and common association. It’s a test of observation, general knowledge, and linguistic precision. What singular action or sound is universally associated with confirming a microphone’s readiness? The answer is often a single, powerful word that encapsulates the entire process.
So, when faced with a crossword clue like “Tests, as a microphone,” don’t overthink the technicalities. Instead, close your eyes and picture the scene. What sound, what action, what verbal confirmation is made? The answer isn’t complex, but it is precise. It’s a rewarding moment when that perfect word clicks into place, revealing the ingenuity behind the crossword constructor’s craft. This is why we love solving crosswords – for those moments of clarity derived from a clever and well-crafted crossword clue.
Available Answers:
TAPSON.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Wednesday’s Daily By John Kugelman / Ed. Patti Varol