Trifling Around with Crossword Clues: Tips for Deciphering Informal Language
Crossword puzzles can be fun and challenging, but sometimes they can be frustrating, especially when encountering informal or slang terms used in clues. It can be tough to decipher and solve such clues, but with the right approach, anyone can become adept at it. Here are some tips for cracking informal language crossword clues.
Understand the Context
One of the most critical aspects of solving any crossword puzzle is understanding the context. In many cases, the informal language in the clue leads to a pun or a play on words.
For example, the clue: “Hightail it out of here” could have the answer “scram” or “skedaddle.” It is essential to recognize that “hightail” is colloquial language meaning to hurry, which in the context of the clue leads to the answer.
Use a Thesaurus
Sometimes, the solution to an informal language crossword clue lies in finding a synonym that fits the definition. A thesaurus is an excellent tool to help you accomplish this.
For example, the clue: “Cool cat” is informal language for a composed, confident person. Searching for synonyms for “cool” in a thesaurus leads to words such as “calm” or “collected,” which ultimately leads to the answer.
Watch out for Homophones
Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings. Informal language crossword clues can often depend on these soundalike words to trick solvers.
For example, the clue: “Mary’s lamb” is an informal reference to the nursery rhyme “Mary Had A Little Lamb.” The answer is “fleece,” which sounds like “fleas” – a common parasite associated with sheep.
Keep an Eye on Tense and Plurals
Keeping track of the tense and plural forms in clues is another essential aspect of solving informal language crossword puzzles. A single letter change in the tense or plural form can lead to a completely different answer.
For example, the clue: “Something to spill” is informal language for “the beans.” Changing “spill” to “spilled” leads to the plural form “beans,” which is the answer.
Final Thoughts
Solving informal language crossword puzzles can be tricky, but with the right approach and a little practice, it can be an entertaining and rewarding experience. Understanding the context, using a thesaurus, watching out for homophones, and keeping track of tense and plurals will ensure success in deciphering informal language in crossword clues. Happy puzzling!
