The sheer delight of a perfectly crafted crossword clue is something only fellow solvers truly understand. That moment when the gears click, or the frustration of a particularly fiendish bit of wordplay, is all part of the game. Today, we’re zeroing in on a nine-letter enigma that has recently caught the eye of many a dedicated crossword solver: “Worth a look (9)“.
This particular crossword clue presents a fascinating challenge, isn’t it? At first glance, it seems deceptively straightforward. “Worth a look” – a common enough phrase in everyday conversation, conjuring images of something recommended, something that merits attention. But as any seasoned puzzle aficionado knows, the simplest phrases often hide the most cunning solutions in the world of the daily crossword. The beauty of a well-designed crossword clue is its inherent ambiguity until the light bulb moment.
When a crossword clue comes with a specific letter count like (9), it immediately narrows the field. Nine letters is a substantial length, offering plenty of room for both direct synonyms and more complex, multi-word answers or even idiomatic expressions. The art of deciphering such a crossword clue lies in considering the various interpretations of “worth a look.” Is it literally something you visually inspect? Or is it something that merits consideration in a broader sense – perhaps an idea, a piece of advice, or even a person?
To tackle a crossword clue like “Worth a look (9)“, a good strategy is to begin by brainstorming synonyms for “worth” and “look” separately, then trying to combine them into a nine-letter word or phrase. Think about synonyms for “valuable,” “deserving,” or “important” when considering “worth.” For “look,” ponder “inspection,” “glance,” “observation,” or even “attention.” Sometimes, the answer springs from a less common, but perfectly valid, synonym that fits the letter count precisely.
Another angle to explore for this crossword clue is its potential for metaphorical meaning. “Worth a look” could imply something that is interesting, compelling, or even noteworthy. Does it suggest something new and exciting, or something timeless and enduring? The context of the surrounding grid, if you’re working on a larger puzzle, can often provide invaluable cross-references, helping to confirm or dismiss potential solutions. This interweaving of clues is what makes the entire crossword puzzle experience so richly rewarding.
Consider the possibility of a hidden wordplay or a cryptic element, even if it’s not explicitly labeled as a cryptic crossword clue. Many standard crosswords embed subtle hints that go beyond mere synonymity. Could “look” be a verb in one sense, and a noun in another? Is there a common phrase that, when abbreviated or rephrased, fits the bill? These are the kinds of mental gymnastics that truly elevate the crossword-solving experience from a simple vocabulary test to a genuine brain teaser.
When you’re faced with a crossword clue that feels just out of reach, it’s often helpful to step away for a moment. Let your subconscious work on it. Sometimes, the solution to a tricky nine-letter crossword clue like this one will simply pop into your head when you least expect it, perhaps while you’re making a cup of tea or taking a short walk. The human brain is an amazing thing when it comes to pattern recognition and word association, especially when it’s been primed by a challenging puzzle.
The satisfaction of cracking a tough crossword clue is immense. It’s a testament to your lexical prowess and your ability to think flexibly and creatively. So, for “Worth a look (9),” keep those mental gears turning. Explore all the possibilities, consider the nuances of the phrasing, and trust your instincts. The perfect nine-letter fit is waiting to be discovered, ready to unlock that satisfying sense of accomplishment that defines every successful crossword solver.
Available Answers:
WATCHABLE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Sunday, 20 July 2025