Cracking the Code: “Write the last – or last but one! (11)”
Ah, the joy of a good crossword puzzle! But sometimes, even the most seasoned solver can get stumped. Today’s clue, “Write the last – or last but one! (11)“, is one of those head-scratchers that leaves you staring blankly at the grid. But fear not, fellow cruciverbalists! Let’s delve into the world of wordplay and unravel this cryptic gem together.
This clue is a classic example of a
double definition
, where the answer fits two distinct meanings. The first part, “Write the last”, points towards a specific action or process. The second part, “last but one”, adds another layer of meaning, likely hinting at a positional aspect.
To solve this, we need to think about what words can be both a verb and a noun, and how that relates to the idea of “last” or “last but one”. Is there a word that describes an action that involves the final or penultimate item in a sequence? Or perhaps a word that is literally the last or second-to-last in a series?
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different word families and consider synonyms. The answer might be hiding in plain sight, disguised by clever wordplay. Remember, the key is to look beyond the literal meaning of the words and explore the potential connections and double meanings.
With a bit of careful analysis and a dose of crossword intuition, I’m confident you’ll crack this clue and revel in the satisfaction of a solved puzzle. Good luck!
Available Answers:
PENULTIMATE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 21 August 2024
Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Tuesday, 20 August 2024