That’s Not True! (A Crossword Conundrum)
Welcome, fellow logophiles and grid-iron gladiators, to another dive into the fascinating world of cryptic clues and lateral thinking! Today, we’re tackling a particularly mischievous crossword entry that left me chuckling, scratching my head, and eventually, feeling utterly enlightened.
The clue in question is:
“That’s not true!’ … or what you might say about the end of each starred clue’s answer?”
Right off the bat, the structure is intriguing. We have a declarative statement, “That’s not true!”, followed by a suggestive ellipsis and a crucial qualifier: “…or what you might say about the end of each starred clue’s answer?” This immediately points us towards a meta-puzzle. We’re not just solving one clue; we’re solving a set of clues,
then
applying another layer of deduction to their answers.
The key, as the clue so cleverly suggests, lies within the answers to the starred clues. We must solve those starred clues, carefully examine their final letters or sounds, and then find a common phrase or word that essentially refutes, contradicts, or negates that ending. Think of it as a mini-debate with the tail end of each answer!
The beauty of this type of clue is that it demands a multi-faceted approach. You need strong vocabulary, familiarity with crossword conventions (abbreviations, synonyms, etc.), and a healthy dose of imaginative thinking. It’s not enough to just get the right answers; you have to understand
why
those answers are right, and then
how
their endings connect to the main clue’s solution.
Think about common ways to express disagreement. Consider words that indicate falsehood, inaccuracy, or denial. Also, pay close attention to the tense and tone of the original statement, “That’s not true!”. Is it accusatory? Sarcastic? Matter-of-fact? The nuances can offer vital clues.
Beyond simply thinking of antonyms, consider the phonetic qualities of the answer endings. Does the answer to the crossword clue sound like anything when spoken aloud? Play with homophones and near-rhymes to open up different avenues of investigation.
Ultimately, this is a crossword clue that celebrates the playful and creative side of language. It challenges us to see words not just as definitions, but as building blocks for more complex and nuanced meanings. It rewards cleverness, persistence, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.
So, sharpen your pencils, gather your wits, and prepare to engage in a linguistic showdown. Solving this clue is not just about filling in a grid; it’s about uncovering a hidden connection, a witty twist, and a satisfying “aha!” moment. Happy solving!
Let me know in the comments how you tackled this tricky clue, and if you uncovered the clever connection between the starred answers!
Available Answers:
IDONTBELIEVEIT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Show Me the Proof By David Ding