Okay, here we go. This week’s crossword puzzle brought with it the usual mix of gimmes and head-scratchers. One, in particular, kept me circling back, a persistent little gremlin that refused to yield its secrets easily. The clue? “Very soon now (2,3,6).”
It’s a deceptively simple phrase at first glance, evoking a sense of anticipation, of immediacy. The promise of something about to happen hangs heavy in the air. And yet, translating that feeling, that specific timeframe, into a precise eleven-letter answer? That’s where the challenge truly lies.
The length is crucial, of course. Eleven letters, broken into that specific 2-3-6 configuration. That immediately rules out a lot of common synonyms for “very soon.” “Shortly,” “presently,” “anon” – all beautiful words, all utterly useless in this context. The construction of the answer is important, so the arrangement is key.
It forces us to consider the
way
we express the concept of near-future events. Are we talking about an imminent arrival? A looming deadline? A quickly approaching holiday? The possibilities, initially vast, begin to narrow as you mentally sift through options.
The “very” in the clue adds a layer of nuance. It’s not just “soon,” it’s
very
soon. This suggests a heightened level of anticipation, a sense of urgency perhaps. It’s not just around the corner, it’s practically here. This helps us zero in on solutions that have that sense of imminence.
Think about the different contexts where you might use such a phrase. Are you waiting for a package? Are you anticipating a phone call? Are you about to embark on a trip? Considering these scenarios can unlock potential avenues of thought. Think about the situations where the phrase “very soon now” might naturally pop into your head.
Another tactic is to break down the clue into its component parts. What does “very” mean in this context? What does “soon” mean? How do they combine to create a specific timeframe? Exploring these individual elements can sometimes reveal a fresh perspective. Sometimes, it will simply lead you down a rabbit hole.
Don’t underestimate the power of synonyms. While “shortly” and “presently” might not fit the letter count, thinking about their broader meaning can spark connections. What are other ways to express the idea of something happening in the immediate future? Brainstorming a list of these synonyms, no matter how seemingly irrelevant, can sometimes lead to a breakthrough.
And then, of course, there’s the tried-and-true method of looking for intersecting letters. If you’ve already filled in some surrounding answers, use those letters to your advantage. Even a single letter can significantly narrow down the possibilities, transforming a seemingly impossible clue into a manageable puzzle piece.
This particular clue is a testament to the art of crafting the perfect puzzle. It’s concise, evocative, and challenging, requiring you to think creatively and consider multiple angles. It’s a reminder that crosswords aren’t just about knowing facts; they’re about problem-solving, linguistic dexterity, and a healthy dose of intuition. The best crossword clues test your vocabulary, your lateral thinking, and your ability to see the world in a slightly different way. This one certainly succeeded on all fronts.
Available Answers:
ATANYMOMENT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Saturday, 20 September 2025