There are those moments in crossword solving when a clue hits you with a familiar yet elusive elegance, and today’s focus, the simple yet potent phrase “Très très,” is a perfect example. For many seasoned solvers, a French crossword clue like this is a welcome sight, a little linguistic detour that adds flavor to the grid. But for others, it can be a delightful head-scratcher, prompting a quick mental dive into school-day French or, let’s be honest, a discreet peek at a dictionary.
“Très très” stands out not just for its foreign origin but for its charming repetition. In French, “très” means “very.” So, when you see it doubled, it’s not just “very very” in a literal sense, but rather “extremely,” “exceptionally,” or even “supremely.” This intensifier is common, casual, and incredibly effective, much like certain go-to expressions we use to amp up our adjectives in English. It’s this nuance of emphatic intensity that a clever crossword constructor is hoping to evoke with this particular crossword clue.
When approaching a foreign language crossword clue, especially one that carries such a clear meaning, the first step is often a direct translation. Here, “very very” immediately springs to mind. But crosswords are rarely that straightforward, are they? The magic often lies in finding the
perfect
English equivalent that fits the grid’s constraints – both in length and in spirit. The challenge with “Très très” is to move beyond the literal and capture the
essence
of its heightened emphasis.
Consider the constructor’s mindset. Why would they choose this specific phrasing? Perhaps to lead you to a word that is itself an intensifier, a word that perfectly mirrors the double emphasis implied by the repeated “très.” It’s not just about a high degree of something; it’s about the
absolute highest
degree, pushed to its limit. Think about words we use daily to convey such extreme states. What common English words convey that “très très” level of intensity, that push beyond mere “very”?
This kind of crossword clue often tests not just your vocabulary, but your understanding of how language subtly shifts meaning. It’s a brilliant way to nudge solvers away from the obvious and towards a more nuanced, yet equally common, synonym. The number of letters in the answer will, of course, be your biggest guide. Is it a short, punchy word? Or something a bit longer that unpacks the intensity more fully? The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue is that it makes you ponder these possibilities, activating different parts of your linguistic brain.
For daily crossword enthusiasts, clues involving foreign words, especially French ones, are quite common. From “Rue” to “Etude” to “Voilà,” French terms have a long and storied history in the crossword puzzle landscape. “Très très” falls into this tradition, offering a gateway to a word that might initially seem unrelated to its French origin but perfectly encapsulates its meaning. The best solutions for such a crossword clue often feel incredibly obvious once you’ve found them, making you wonder why it took so long!
So, the next time you stare at this particular crossword clue, remember its double nature: its French origin and its emphatic repetition. Both elements are crucial hints, pointing you towards an answer that signifies not just a little, but
a whole lot
. It’s a delightful journey from a simple French phrase to a perfectly fitting English equivalent, a testament to the satisfying intellectual workout a good crossword provides. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
ULTRA.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Amie Walker & Wendy L. Brandes / Ed. Patti Varol