Tackling “Wide St.” in Today’s Crossword
The crossword puzzle, that daily mental workout, throws a curveball every now and then. Today, that curveball comes in the form of “Wide St.” This clue might seem simple on the surface, but the ambiguity lurking beneath can turn a quick fill-in into a head-scratching exercise. The challenge lies in interpreting what kind of “wide” the clue is referring to, and what kind of street fits that description.
Street nomenclature itself can be a minefield. Are we dealing with a specific, well-known street that’s simply broader than average? Or does the clue hint at a generic term for a wide thoroughfare, a type of road designed to handle a significant volume of traffic? Thinking about the different types of roadways is a good first step. Boulevards, avenues, parkways – all these terms denote specific types of streets, and some inherently imply a wider expanse than, say, a lane or alley.
The context of the crossword puzzle is crucial. Look at the intersecting clues and the number of letters required for the answer. This will narrow down the possibilities. Are the intersecting clues dealing with geography? Urban planning? Or perhaps something more abstract, like a figurative use of “wide”? Answering those intersecting clues could bring clarity.
Think about the common abbreviations used in crosswords. “St.” is already an abbreviation for “Street,” so we can expect the answer to be a shortened version of something. Is there a commonly abbreviated term related to wide streets that fits the number of letters? Consider this carefully.
Many streets are named after prominent figures, historical events, or geographical features. While a literal “Wide Street” exists in some places (though often quite small and unremarkable), it’s unlikely to be the answer in a mainstream crossword. Therefore, we should think figuratively and about the street type.
“Wide” could also be metaphorical. Is the crossword trying to be clever, perhaps referencing a street with a name that suggests expanse or openness? Brainstorm synonyms for “wide” and see if any of them trigger associations with street names. Think “broad,” “open,” “grand” – do any of these lead you down a promising path?
Remember that crossword constructors often employ misdirection. The obvious interpretation of “wide” might be a trap. Consider alternative meanings of the word. Could it refer to a street that’s widely known? Or one with a wide variety of businesses and attractions?
The key to cracking this “Wide St.” crossword clue is a combination of general knowledge, crossword-solving experience, and a bit of lateral thinking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different possibilities, cross-referencing with the intersecting clues until the solution clicks into place. Good luck, and happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
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Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Thursday’s Daily By Kathy Lowden / Ed. Patti Varol