Unraveling “Try getting a model to entice (7)“: A Cryptic Crossword Challenge
There’s nothing quite like the daily ritual of diving into a fresh crossword puzzle. For me, it’s not just a pastime; it’s a mental gym, a linguistic playground where every
crossword clue
is a new puzzle box waiting to be unlocked. Some days, the answers flow smoothly, a gratifying cascade of ‘aha!’ moments. Other days, a single, particularly cunning
crossword clue
can stop you dead in your tracks, demanding more than just a passing glance. It’s these clues, the ones that make you lean back, stare at the ceiling, and perhaps even consult a thesaurus (just for inspiration, of course!), that truly define the joy of the solve.
Recently, one such gem emerged from the grid, a seven-letter marvel that immediately caught my eye and sparked that familiar blend of frustration and intense curiosity: “Try getting a model to entice (7)“. What a beauty! It’s the kind of cryptic
crossword clue
that perfectly encapsulates the art of wordplay – seemingly straightforward on the surface, yet brimming with layers of delightful deception underneath. The bracketed (7) immediately tells us the length of our desired word, a crucial piece of information, but beyond that, the path to the solution feels wonderfully obscured, a testament to brilliant clue-setting.
Let’s unpack this fantastic
crossword clue
a little, without, of course, giving away the satisfying secret. The first word, “Try,” often serves as the definition component in a cryptic clue. Immediately, our brains start buzzing with synonyms:
attempt, endeavor, make an effort, test, give it a go
. Each of these potential meanings sends us down different mental alleys, setting the stage for the wordplay. But then comes the intricate dance of “getting a model to entice.” This is where the magic (and the misdirection) truly happens. Is “model” a noun, referring to a person, an object, or a type? Or is it a verb, suggesting shaping or forming? The versatility of such a common word is a prime tool for setters aiming to craft a truly engaging
crossword clue
.
Consider the word “model” itself. It could mean a prototype, an example, or even a person who poses. It could also hint at a specific letter, like an ‘M’ for model, or even a well-known type of model. Or perhaps it refers to the act of modelling something, like clay. And what about “entice”? Is it simply part of the charming surface reading, or is it an instruction? Could it be hinting at an anagram, a container element where one word ‘gets’ or ‘entices’ another, or even a hidden word component? The cleverness of this
crossword clue
lies in how it prompts us to explore every linguistic avenue. We’re looking for a seven-letter word that fits the definition of “Try” while simultaneously being cleverly constructed from the elements within “getting a model to entice.” This balance of definition and wordplay is the hallmark of a truly great cryptic
crossword clue
.
The process of dissecting a
crossword clue
like this is what makes daily crosswords so addictive. It’s about recognizing familiar cryptic patterns – charades, anagrams, reversals, containers – and applying them to the seemingly disparate parts of the clue. The phrase “getting a” can be particularly tricky, sometimes acting as a simple connector, other times indicating a more complex interaction between letters or words. When faced with such a compelling
crossword clue
, a solver learns to appreciate the subtlety, the economy of words, and the sheer ingenuity of the setter. It’s a challenge that hones your vocabulary, sharpens your logical thinking, and deepens your appreciation for the English language, making every solved
crossword clue
a small victory.
This particular
crossword clue
is a testament to the enduring appeal of the puzzle. It invites you to pause, to re-read, to muse, and to ultimately achieve that delightful spark of insight when all the pieces finally click into place. It’s a rewarding journey, and one that every
crossword clue
enthusiast cherishes. So, take a moment, ponder “Try getting a model to entice (7)“, and enjoy the intellectual gymnastics it demands. The solution, once found, feels not just like an answer, but a small victory in the ongoing battle of wits against the grid. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
ATTEMPT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 10 November 2025