The world of cryptic crosswords often presents a fascinating blend of the arcane and the everyday, the scientific and the idiomatic. Some
crossword clues
are straightforward, a simple anagram or a direct synonym. Others, however, demand a multi-layered approach, requiring solvers to peel back layers of meaning like an onion. These are the clues that truly test one’s linguistic agility and lateral thinking.
Consider a recent challenge that appeared, a truly memorable seven-letter
crossword clue
that perfectly encapsulates this intricate dance: “To block polluted drains with nitrogen takes guts (7)“. At first glance, it might seem like a chemistry problem or an environmental engineering task, far removed from the typical fare of a word puzzle. Yet, therein lies its genius. It forces a cognitive shift, moving from the literal interpretation of “polluted drains” and “nitrogen” to the metaphorical realm implied by “takes guts”.
This particular
crossword clue
is a masterclass in misdirection and clever construction. The initial phrase, “To block polluted drains with nitrogen,” paints a vivid, almost scientific, picture. One might start thinking about chemical reactions, inert gases, or even physical obstructions. The mind immediately drifts towards terms associated with sanitation, chemistry, or environmental remediation. This is precisely the intention: to set a mental trap, guiding the solver down a path of literal interpretation, only to be yanked back by the final, crucial phrase.
“Takes guts” is the pivot. It’s the unexpected twist that transforms a seemingly technical definition into a clever wordplay mechanism. In common parlance, “takes guts” implies bravery, courage, or resilience. But in the context of a cryptic
crossword clue
, it often points to something far more literal, or perhaps, a component within the word itself. This is where the true cryptic nature of the clue reveals itself. It’s not about courage in the face of a blocked drain, but about extracting something essential, something core.
The challenge this kind of
crossword clue
poses is not just about vocabulary, but about understanding the very mechanics of cryptic construction. It’s about recognizing when a phrase shifts from being part of the definition to being an indicator of how the answer is formed. The scientific veneer of “nitrogen” and “polluted drains” serves as a sophisticated smokescreen, making the solver work harder to identify the true nature of the wordplay. One must look beyond the surface, beyond the immediate, to unlock the hidden meaning.
Such clues exemplify the joy of cryptic crosswords. They are puzzles within puzzles, each element carefully chosen to both define and mislead. They invite a deep dive into language, playing on synonyms, homophones, anagrams, and clever double meanings. For those who relish the intellectual chase, a
crossword clue
like this one is pure gold. It’s a testament to the setter’s skill, crafting a challenge that is both frustratingly elusive and immensely satisfying to decipher. It reinforces the idea that in crosswords, as in life, things are rarely as they first appear.
Unpacking this particular seven-letter answer requires a flexible mind, willing to abandon initial assumptions and explore alternative interpretations. It calls for a systematic approach, considering each part of the clue not just for its semantic value, but for its potential role in the cryptic wordplay. The solution lies not in a dictionary of engineering terms, but in understanding how the phrase “takes guts” can literally inform the structure of a word, especially one that pertains to the initial, somewhat unusual, definition. It’s a testament to the ingenuity that can be packed into just a few words.
Available Answers:
INNARDS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 16 June 2025