Ah, the daily crossword clue. Sometimes they’re straightforward, a simple synonym hunt that fills a space with satisfying ease. Other times, they’re little linguistic puzzles, wrapped in a riddle, designed to make you pause, ponder, and perhaps even pull your hair out just a little. Today, we’re diving into one of those delightfully tricky ones: “When repeated, cry of approval.” This isn’t just any crossword clue; it’s a prime example of the clever wordplay that elevates crosswords from a mere vocabulary test to a true intellectual sport.
This particular crossword clue immediately tells us two crucial things about the answer. Firstly, the solution is a word that, when duplicated, forms a complete phrase or concept. The “when repeated” mechanism is a classic in the world of crossword puzzles. It’s a signal to look for a short, often monosyllabic word that gains new meaning, or significantly amplifies its existing meaning, through duplication. It’s a mechanic that demands you think beyond single words and consider the power of repetition in language. Many a challenging crossword clue employs this trick, and mastering it is key to becoming a faster, more intuitive solver.
Secondly, that resulting concept, the repeated word, is an “expression of approval.” This is where the real brain-tickling begins. What kind of approval are we talking about? Is it a polite nod? A vigorous cheer? A simple affirmation? The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its ability to be specific yet broad enough to send your mind down multiple avenues. “Cry of approval” could suggest something boisterous and public, or it could hint at a quieter, more personal form of acceptance. The spectrum of “cries” is wide, from a gentle sigh of satisfaction to a roaring ovation. For anyone passionate about solving crosswords, dissecting these nuances is half the fun.
When tackling such a crossword clue, my mind immediately starts listing words that fit the “repeated” pattern. Think of words that sound natural when said twice, or words that transform into a common phrase when doubled. Then, I cross-reference these with the “cry of approval” aspect. Does the doubled word genuinely convey agreement, enthusiasm, or endorsement? This isn’t about finding a direct synonym for “approval”; it’s about finding a
sound
or
exclamation
that represents it. It’s a testament to the constructor’s skill when they can combine these two distinct elements into a single, elegant crossword clue that points to a very specific, yet elusive, answer.
Solving a crossword clue like this isn’t just about knowing your vocabulary; it’s about understanding the unique grammar and wordplay of crosswords themselves. It’s about seeing how words fit together, how their forms can change meaning, and how a clever constructor can guide you to a very precise answer through seemingly simple words. This kind of word puzzle reminds us why we love daily crosswords so much – they push us to think creatively and embrace the delightful ambiguities of language. For many a crossword enthusiast, the moment that little lightbulb goes off – the “aha!” moment – for a challenging crossword clue like this, is pure gold. It’s the satisfaction of deciphering linguistic artistry and cracking the code that makes every solved grid a small victory. This particular type of crossword clue truly embodies the spirit of intellectual play that makes crosswords so addictive and rewarding.
Available Answers:
HEAR.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Gary Larson & Amy Ensz / Ed. Patti Varol