Welcome back, fellow word warriors and cryptic connoisseurs! There’s nothing quite like that satisfying “aha!” moment when a tricky
crossword clue
finally clicks into place. Today, we’re diving into one of those deceptively simple phrases that can leave you scratching your head: “Time of darkness (5)“.
This particular
crossword clue
might seem straightforward at first glance. “Time of darkness” – how many five-letter words could there possibly be for that? Well, as any seasoned solver knows, the joy (and occasional frustration) of a good crossword puzzle lies in its layers of meaning, its clever misdirections, and the subtle nuances of language. This isn’t just a simple synonym search; it’s an invitation to explore the concept of “darkness” itself, and how it might manifest as a “time.”
When you encounter a
crossword clue
like this, your mind probably jumps to the most obvious interpretations. Is it referring to the period after sunset? Or perhaps something more metaphorical, a spell of difficulty or an era of ignorance? The beauty of a well-crafted clue is its ability to evoke multiple possibilities, forcing you to consider the precise five-letter constraint as your ultimate guide.
Let’s break down the elements. “Time” can refer to a specific duration, an interval, or even a general period. “Darkness” can mean the absence of light, obscurity, gloom, or even a state of unconsciousness. The challenge of this
crossword clue
is sifting through these various definitions and aligning them with a word that perfectly fits both the literal and potentially figurative sense, all while adhering strictly to that precious five-letter count.
Often, with such a seemingly clear
crossword clue
, solvers can fall into the trap of overthinking or, conversely, dismissing it as too simple. Is it a common everyday word, or something a little more literary? Crossword setters love to play on these expectations. They might present a very familiar concept in a way that makes you second-guess yourself, or they might hide a less common word behind a universally understood phrase. This is where relying on those crossing letters from other clues becomes absolutely invaluable in your daily crossword adventure.
Consider the different contexts in which “time of darkness” might appear. Is it astronomical? Geological? Historical? Emotional? Each angle offers a slightly different set of potential five-letter answers. For instance, think about the natural progression of a day, or periods of significant change in history. Both could be described with this phrase, but only one five-letter word will ultimately fit the bill for this specific
crossword clue
.
Navigating these linguistic puzzles is what makes solving crosswords so engaging. It’s a fantastic mental workout, honing your vocabulary, your ability to think laterally, and your patience. So, when you’re faced with “Time of darkness (5),” take a moment. Don’t rush to the first word that comes to mind. Ponder the possibilities, consider the literal and the abstract, and let those crossing letters be your guiding light through the gloom of this intriguing
crossword clue
. Keep exploring, keep thinking, and that “aha!” moment will surely arrive.
Available Answers:
NIGHT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Friday, 10 October 2025