Decoding the Crossword: “What ___ you?”
Welcome, puzzle aficionados, to another dive into the cryptic world of crossword clues! Today, we’re tackling a deceptively simple-looking phrase: “What ___ you?”
At first glance, it might seem like a straightforward fill-in-the-blank. But as any seasoned crossword solver knows, simplicity can often mask layers of clever wordplay, misdirection, and hidden meanings. A good clue is designed to lead you down a specific path, only to reveal the solution lurking just off the beaten track.
The challenge with clues like this lies in their open-ended nature. “What ___ you?” could be the beginning of a question, a statement, a command, or even a piece of slang. The blank could be filled with a verb, an adjective, a noun, or even an interjection. The possibilities seem endless, making it crucial to consider all potential angles.
Before we jump into dissecting the possibilities, let’s consider the context. Where did you find this clue? What size answer are we looking for? Knowing the number of letters required is always our first, and perhaps most critical, piece of information. The length of the word dramatically narrows the scope of possible solutions, eliminating countless near-misses and forcing us to focus on the most likely candidates.
Next, examine the surrounding clues and answers. Are there any thematic elements at play? Does the puzzle seem to be focused on a particular subject, era, or style? Clues often work together, building on shared themes or allusions. Identifying these connections can provide valuable hints and suggest potential solutions that might otherwise be overlooked.
Consider also the tone and style of the clue. Is it witty, sarcastic, straightforward, or literary? Crossword constructors often use specific language and phrasing to signal the type of answer they’re looking for. A clue with a question mark might indicate a play on words or a pun, while a more formal-sounding clue might suggest a more literal or obscure solution.
Let’s brainstorm some possible directions. Think about common phrases that begin with “What” and contain a verb. “What are you… doing? wearing? thinking?” are quick examples. But that’s too easy, isn’t it?
Perhaps the blank represents a characteristic. “What kind of…fool? person? animal?” are possibilities. This directs us to consider adjectives that might fit both the grammatical structure of the phrase and the overall theme of the puzzle.
The clue could also be interpreted as an incomplete idiom or saying. Many common phrases begin with “What,” and the crossword constructor might be relying on our familiarity with these sayings to lead us to the correct answer. Think about how partial phrases are commonly used in crosswords.
Finally, never underestimate the power of sheer guessing. Sometimes, the best approach is to simply try different words in the blank until something clicks. Start with common words that fit the letter count and see if they trigger any connections or associations.
Remember, the goal is not just to find
an
answer, but to find
the
answer that fits perfectly within the overall structure and logic of the crossword puzzle. Keep your mind open, consider all possibilities, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
SAY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0723-25 NY Times Crossword 23 Jul 25, Wednesday