Brain Strain: Diving Deep Into “That Was Exhausting”
Welcome back, fellow cruciverbalists! Today, we’re tackling a crossword clue that likely resonated with anyone who’s ever chased a deadline, run a marathon, or even just survived a particularly chaotic Tuesday: “That Was Exhausting.”
This seemingly simple clue packs a surprising punch. It speaks to the very essence of weariness, the feeling of depletion that follows a period of intense effort. But as we know, crossword clues are rarely straightforward. The beauty lies in the double meanings, the subtle wordplay, and the clever misdirection.
So, what makes this particular clue so intriguing? Firstly, it’s an expression. We’re not looking for a single word, but rather a phrase that perfectly encapsulates the sentiment of being utterly spent. This immediately narrows down the possibilities, pushing us away from single-word synonyms like “tired” or “weary.” We need something with a bit more
oomph
, something that carries the weight of lived experience.
Consider the different contexts where someone might utter “That Was Exhausting.” Was it physical exertion, leaving you breathless and aching? Or was it mental fatigue, the kind that makes your brain feel like a scrambled egg? Perhaps it was emotional drain, the kind that leaves you feeling hollow and raw. The answer will need to consider these possibilities, and be something all-encompassing.
The length of the answer, dictated by the grid, is obviously crucial. A short answer might suggest a more pithy, declarative response. A longer answer allows for a more descriptive and nuanced expression of exhaustion. Think about the rhythm of speech, the natural cadence of how someone might express this feeling in real life.
The surrounding entries in the crossword provide invaluable context. Do they offer thematic clues, perhaps related to physical activity, mental challenges, or even a particular field like medicine or sports? Are there any cross-referencing clues that might indirectly shed light on the answer? Examining the intersecting letters is also critical. These are like breadcrumbs, leading us closer to the solution. Even a single correctly placed letter can unlock the entire word, triggering a domino effect that brings the rest of the answer into focus.
Beyond the literal meaning, we should also be thinking about figurative language. Could the clue be alluding to an idiom or a common expression that represents exhaustion in a more abstract way? Crossword constructors often play with these types of linguistic devices, using them to add an extra layer of complexity and challenge to the puzzle.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of intuition. Sometimes, the answer simply
feels
right. Trust your gut feeling and don’t be afraid to try out different possibilities, even if they seem a little far-fetched at first. Crossword solving is a process of trial and error, of carefully weighing different options and ultimately landing on the solution that fits both the clue and the grid. Good luck!
Available Answers:
INEEDANAP, IMSOTIRED.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Washington Post Crossword -Wednesday’s Daily By Terry Sun & Shannon Rapp / Ed. Patti Varol
Universal Crossword – Themeless Sunday 143 By Rebecca Goldstein and Rafael Musa