The humble phrase “That way” often graces our daily puzzles, a seemingly innocuous pairing of words that, when presented as a
crossword clue
, can bring even the most seasoned solver to a grinding halt. It’s one of those linguistic shapeshifters, effortlessly navigating various contexts and meanings, which is precisely what makes it a setter’s dream – and occasionally, a solver’s delightful torment.
At first glance, “That way” might seem straightforward. Its most immediate interpretation often points to a
direction
. Imagine someone indicating a path with a hand gesture, saying, “The shop is just
that way
.” Here, it functions as a spatial indicator, guiding us towards a specific location. This is a common understanding, and many a crossword clue will play on this literal sense, forcing us to consider geographical terms or simple directional pointers. The elegance of the phrase lies in its simplicity; it doesn’t specify north, south, east, or west, but rather a relative vector, leaving plenty of room for creative clueing.
However, the versatility of “That way” extends far beyond mere direction. It can also describe a
manner or method
. “She always does things
that way
,” one might comment, referring to a particular style or approach. In this context, the phrase delves into the realm of custom, habit, or characteristic behavior. A
crossword clue
leveraging this meaning asks us to think about adjectives describing a mode of action or perhaps an idiom signifying a particular methodology. The ambiguity here is potent: is it about
how
something is done, or
where
it’s done? The intersecting letters become paramount in deciphering the setter’s intent.
Furthermore, “That way” can denote a
state or condition
. “Things have been
that way
for a while now,” a sentence might begin, indicating a persistent situation or a particular emotional state. This usage adds another layer of complexity for the solver. When faced with such a nuanced
crossword clue
, one must consider words related to status quo, prevailing circumstances, or even unspoken feelings. “Are you feeling
that way
about him?” is a perfect example of its deployment in a more personal, emotional sense, hinting at affection or strong sentiment. The challenge lies in distinguishing between a physical state and an emotional one, or even a logical conclusion.
The true genius of “That way” as a
crossword clue
lies in its brevity and its power to hint at multiple possible answers, all equally valid given the right context. A master crossword setter delights in phrases that force solvers to dig deep into their lexicon, considering every possible nuance before committing to an answer. It demands a holistic approach, where the number of letters and the surrounding words in the grid become crucial allies in narrowing down the possibilities.
So, the next time “That way” emerges from the grid as your latest
crossword clue
, pause and appreciate its linguistic dexterity. It’s not just a challenge; it’s an invitation to explore the rich tapestry of the English language, reminding us how a simple phrase can hold a world of meaning. Unraveling its layers is one of the true joys of daily crossword solving, a testament to the satisfying intellectual pursuit that is the common crossword clue.
Available Answers:
YON.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 1115-25 NY Times Crossword 15 Nov 25, Saturday