There’s a unique thrill that washes over every dedicated solver when faced with a particularly clever crossword clue. It’s that moment of delightful challenge, where the words on the page transform from simple letters into an intricate puzzle waiting to be unwound. Whether you tackle the daily crossword in your morning paper or dive into more complex cryptic offerings online, the quest to crack that elusive answer is a shared passion. Today, we’re dissecting a fascinating example that combines a evocative phrase with a structural hint, providing ample fodder for our collective brain-teasing enjoyment.
We’re talking about a crossword clue that reads: “‘We’d hate to forget’ (Last five letters + …).” This isn’t just any old definition; it’s a compelling invitation to delve deep into wordplay and strategic thinking. Right off the bat, a seasoned crossword solver will notice the dual nature of this particular crossword clue. On one hand, you have the evocative phrase, “‘We’d hate to forget’,” which immediately conjures images of memory, importance, and things that simply must be remembered or retained. This part of the crossword clue functions as the definitional hook, guiding our thoughts towards concepts related to recall, remembrance, or perhaps even a tangible item that helps us keep things in mind. The rich semantic field it opens up is wide, yet subtly directed. Is it something that prevents forgetting? Or something that is itself unforgettable? The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in this kind of delightful ambiguity, prompting us to explore various avenues of thought.
Then comes the second, equally crucial part of this crossword clue: “(Last five letters + …).” This is where the structural genius of the puzzle maker shines through. For any serious puzzle solver, this isn’t just an aside; it’s a powerful instructional directive. It tells us something fundamental about the construction of the answer itself. Such a hint within a crossword clue is a beacon, narrowing down the vast ocean of potential words to a specific category. It indicates that the solution isn’t a single, monolithic word defined purely by the first phrase. Instead, it’s a composite, an amalgamation, or a word whose ending is explicitly dictated by another component or a specific characteristic. This type of instruction is common in word puzzles and is a favorite tool of setters to add an extra layer of challenge and satisfaction. It transforms the crossword clue from a simple definition-matching exercise into a mini-assembly project.
The synergy between these two components of the crossword clue is what makes it truly stand out. You have the conceptual framework provided by “‘We’d hate to forget’,” and then the precise architectural blueprint given by “(Last five letters + …).” To successfully solve this type of crossword clue, one must not only understand the potential meanings behind the phrase but also be adept at breaking down words, identifying suffixes, or constructing new words from given parts. It’s a brilliant test of both vocabulary and analytical skill, a true brain teaser for anyone passionate about solving crosswords. Getting this specific crossword clue right often feels like unlocking a secret code, and it’s these moments of triumph that keep us coming back to our beloved word puzzles day after day. Analyzing such a layered crossword clue is a prime example of why we love the intellectual sport of puzzle solving.
Available Answers:
REMINDUS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Division of Labor By Kareem Ayas