That’s Unexpected… and Unexpectedly Tricky: A Crossword Clue Deep Dive
Sometimes, a crossword clue hits you like a rogue wave. You think you’ve got a handle on things, you’re cruising along, and BAM! You’re staring at a seemingly simple phrase that belies a complex and cunning wordplay. “That’s unexpected …” certainly falls into that category.
At first glance, the clue screams “surprise!” or “something surprising!” You might jump to synonyms like “shock,” “jolt,” or even “bombshell.” But the beauty – and the challenge – of crossword clues lies in their multi-layered nature. It’s rarely that straightforward.
This particular clue, “That’s unexpected …,” begs us to consider: what kind of unexpectedness are we dealing with? Is it a dramatic, life-altering surprise? Or something more subtle, a mild deviation from the norm? Is the unexpected element positive, negative, or neutral?
The ellipsis, “…,” is also a crucial signal. It hints that the answer is likely
part
of a longer phrase, a common crossword trick. We need to consider idioms, catchphrases, or well-known expressions that begin with “That’s unexpected” or something semantically similar. This means casting a wide net and thinking beyond single-word synonyms.
Think about context. Does the surrounding fill give you any hints regarding the era, tone, or subject matter? Are there any other clues that seem to be playing on a similar theme? Crossword constructors are masterminds of interconnectedness; often, clues relate to each other in subtle and surprising ways. Paying attention to these relationships can unlock even the most perplexing entries.
Consider the number of letters required for the answer. This is a fundamental piece of information, and frequently overlooked in the initial rush to solve. Knowing the length immediately narrows down the possibilities, eliminating a vast number of potential answers. Write down the letter pattern, marking known letters from intersecting words. This visual aid can sometimes spark a connection and illuminate the correct solution.
Then, explore less obvious avenues. Are there any puns or homophones at play? Crossword clues often employ wordplay to mislead solvers, and “unexpected” itself could be a trigger for such trickery. Could the clue be referring to a proper noun, like a person or place known for being unpredictable? Think about famous figures with erratic behavior, or geographical locations known for their volatile climates.
Finally, consider the overall difficulty of the puzzle. Is it a Monday puzzle, designed for beginners, or a Saturday brain-buster crafted for seasoned solvers? This will influence the complexity of the wordplay and the obscurity of the answer. A Monday puzzle is more likely to feature a common phrase, while a Saturday puzzle might require deeper knowledge and lateral thinking.
So, before you throw your hands up in frustration, take a moment to dissect the clue. Break it down into its component parts, consider the possible meanings, and explore all the potential avenues of wordplay. Remember, the unexpected is often hiding in plain sight. Good luck, and happy solving!
Available Answers:
ODD ….
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0625-25 NY Times Crossword 25 Jun 25, Wednesday