This will not fly!

This Will Not Fly! A Cryptic Crossword Conundrum

Ah, the cryptic crossword. A delightful puzzle for the seasoned solver, and a baffling enigma for the novice. Today’s clue has me stumped, and I’m sure it’s doing the same for you!

“This will not fly!” – it’s a simple enough phrase, but in the world of cryptic clues, simplicity is often a mirage. The words themselves offer no obvious answer, and the exclamation mark adds an air of urgency that begs further analysis.

Is this a straight definition clue, masking an everyday object? Or perhaps it’s a wordplay clue, requiring a clever bit of wordplay? Let’s dive in and explore the possibilities!

The Clues within the Clue:

“This”

: Is this a reference to a specific item, or a more general concept?

“Will not fly”

: The phrase can be interpreted in various ways. It could imply something is impossible, impractical, or even dangerous.

The exclamation mark

: This adds a sense of emphasis, suggesting the clue is hinting at something particularly important.

Unraveling the Mystery:

Let’s consider the potential avenues for solving this cryptic puzzle. We could be looking for:

A noun

: An item that simply “will not fly” in a literal sense.

A verb

: An action or state that is considered unacceptable.

An adjective

: A quality that makes something undesirable.

A phrase

: A common expression that embodies the idea of something being impossible.

The Importance of Context:

The surrounding clues and the overall theme of the crossword can offer invaluable hints. Is this a general knowledge crossword, or focused on a specific topic like literature or science? Are there any other clues that seem related to this one?

The Joy of the Hunt:

The beauty of cryptic crosswords lies in the journey of deduction. It’s not just about finding the answer, but about the process of unraveling the clues and piecing together the puzzle.

So, fellow crossword enthusiasts, let’s put on our thinking caps and delve into the depths of this cryptic riddle. I’m sure with a bit of effort and ingenuity, we’ll crack the code and reveal the answer to this perplexing clue!

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. What are your initial impressions of the clue? What potential answers are you considering? Happy solving!

Available Answers:

EMU.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 31 Aug 24, Saturday