A particularly intriguing crossword clue landed on the grid recently, one that immediately felt like it belonged in the hall of fame for clever wordplay: “What’s broken for a record?” It’s the kind of crossword clue that makes you pause, scratch your head, and then slowly, as the layers peel back, marvel at the ingenuity. For anyone who enjoys a good mental workout, analyzing a challenging crossword clue is half the fun.
The beauty of a well-crafted crossword puzzle lies in its ability to take seemingly straightforward words and twist them into something entirely new, often through a clever pun, a double entendre, or a subtle turn of phrase. This specific crossword clue is a prime example of that artistry. At first glance, “broken” might suggest something physically shattered, like a vase or an old 78 RPM vinyl. And “record” could lead you down the path of music, archives, or even a personal diary. The mind races through scenarios: a broken record player? A fragment of a historical document? This initial, literal interpretation is precisely where the crossword clue wants to send you, setting a delightful trap for the unwary solver. It’s a classic misdirection technique in puzzle solving.
But the seasoned crossword puzzle enthusiast knows better than to fall for the obvious. The best crossword clues often hinge on a less common definition, a metaphorical usage, or a play on words that transcends the literal. For “What’s broken for a record?”, the key lies in dissecting each word, not just in isolation, but in their surprising synergy. Effective clue analysis often begins by exploring every possible meaning of each word in the phrase.
Consider “broken.” Beyond its physical meaning, how else can something be “broken”? We talk about breaking a habit, breaking news, or even breaking a law. Each of these implies an interruption, a deviation from a norm, or an act of transgression. Then there’s “record.” Is it the tangible item, the vinyl disc or a written account, or is it something more abstract? Think about setting a new world record, or the act of recording something. These are verbs, actions, achievements. The journey to decode such a crossword clue often involves exploring these less common associations.
The power of this crossword clue resides in forcing you to abandon the most common interpretations and delve deeper into the lexicon. It demands a shift in perspective, moving beyond the physical and into the conceptual. What links the act of “breaking” with the concept of a “record” in a way that isn’t about physical damage? It’s a question that truly tests one’s vocabulary and lateral thinking skills, hallmarks of advanced puzzle solving. This type of wordplay is what elevates a simple daily crossword into a true brain teaser.
Many a daily crossword puzzle will feature a trickier crossword clue or two designed to make you think outside the box. This particular one is a masterclass in misdirection, guiding your thoughts down a dead-end street before revealing the brilliantly simple, yet elusive, connection. It reminds us why we love crossword puzzles: for the challenge, for the linguistic gymnastics, and for that satisfying “aha!” moment when the hidden meaning finally clicks into place. It’s not just about filling in boxes; it’s about appreciating the intricate dance between words and their myriad meanings. To fully appreciate this specific crossword clue, one must let go of conventional wisdom and embrace the delightful ambiguity that makes crossword solving such a rewarding intellectual exercise. The answer, when it finally emerges, often feels so obvious in hindsight, yet remains so cleverly concealed within the layers of the crossword clue itself. It’s a testament to the skill of the puzzle constructor.
Available Answers:
LAW.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0622-25 NY Times Crossword 22 Jun 25, Sunday