“That’s gotta hurt!”

“That’s Gotta Hurt!” – A Cryptic Crossword Clue Decoded

Ah, the joys of crossword puzzles! Those moments of triumphant “aha!” when you finally crack a tricky clue, the satisfaction of seeing those black squares filled with carefully chosen letters. But sometimes, the clues throw us a curveball, leaving us scratching our heads and muttering, “That’s gotta hurt!”

This week, we’re tackling one such cryptic clue that has left many solvers in a state of bewildered frustration. It’s a doozy, folks, one that requires a bit of lateral thinking and a healthy dose of wordplay.

The clue itself is a simple phrase: “That’s gotta hurt!” But what does it really mean? Is it a simple expression of sympathy? A veiled warning? Or something entirely different?

Let’s break it down. Firstly, we need to consider the context. Is this clue for a straight definition clue or a cryptic one? Cryptic clues often employ wordplay and double meanings, so we need to be on the lookout for hidden clues within the phrase itself.

“That’s gotta hurt” implies pain, discomfort, or injury. But is it physical pain, emotional pain, or something else entirely? We also need to consider the grammatical structure of the clue. “That’s” suggests a singular object, while “gotta hurt” hints at an action or consequence.

So, how do we connect these pieces of the puzzle? What word or phrase could be both a source of pain and an action or consequence? The key lies in understanding the wordplay and deciphering the double meaning hidden within the phrase.

Don’t worry, we’re not leaving you hanging. In the coming paragraphs, we’ll explore the various possible interpretations of this tricky clue, analyze the wordplay, and ultimately arrive at the solution. So, grab your trusty dictionary, sharpen your pencil, and get ready to unlock the secrets of this cryptic crossword clue!

Available Answers:

OOF!.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 14 Jul 24, Sunday