Whispers and Woodworm: Deconstructing a Tricky Crossword Clue
Okay, fellow cruciverbalists, let’s dive headfirst into a clue that’s been buzzing around the crossword community: “White ant or his movement close enough to be heard (6,7)“. This one’s a real head-scratcher, isn’t it? At first glance, it appears straightforward, referencing a common pest – the white ant, more formally known as a termite. But the devil, as they say, is in the details.
The clue’s structure immediately suggests a two-word answer, with the lengths clearly indicated as six and seven letters respectively. This is always a valuable starting point, helping us to narrow down the possibilities and avoid chasing down entirely irrelevant rabbit holes.
Now, let’s break down the components. “White ant” itself likely serves as a definition or partial definition. We need to consider what other terms might be used to describe a white ant, or a characteristic associated with them. Think about their behavior, their habitat, or the damage they cause. Perhaps a synonym for “white ant” is at play here, or even a colloquial term.
The phrase “or his movement” adds a layer of complexity. The use of “his” personifies the white ant, suggesting we should consider actions or sounds directly related to the creature itself. This could lead us down the path of thinking about the specific noises a colony of termites might make. Are there any onomatopoeic words that could fit the bill? Remember, the crossword compiler often uses clever wordplay and misdirection.
Then we have “close enough to be heard,” which is a crucial qualifier. This tells us that we are looking for a sound, or a way something moves, that’s perceptible at a close distance. This eliminates any broad-strokes terms related to termite infestation in general; we need something more immediate and concrete.
The key here might lie in the relationship between the “white ant” and “his movement.” The second word of our answer probably describes some physical action. Is the first word directly related to termites? Or is it a more general clue related to auditory perception? Perhaps the first word sets up the context for interpreting the second.
When tackling a tricky clue like this, consider alternative meanings of words. For instance, “movement” could refer to a shift in position, a change in policy, or even a musical phrase. While the first interpretation seems most likely given the context of “white ant,” it’s always wise to keep other possibilities in the back of your mind.
Think also about common crossword devices. Anagrams are always a possibility, although less likely given the straightforward nature of the wording. Hidden words, reversed words, and abbreviations are other tools often employed by crossword setters to add a layer of challenge.
Before you tear your hair out, revisit the surrounding clues. Sometimes, crossing letters can provide invaluable clues, narrowing the possibilities significantly. Even if you don’t have a complete answer, partial letters can help you eliminate improbable solutions.
Finally, remember the joy of the challenge! Even if you don’t immediately crack the code, the process of dissecting the clue and exploring different avenues is a rewarding experience in itself. So, put on your thinking caps, sharpen your pencils, and let’s see if we can collectively decipher this intriguing puzzle. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
WITHINEARSHOT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 30 November 2025