crossword clue play on words – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "crossword clue play on words" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PUN: A humorous use of a word or phrase so as to suggest two or more meanings or the meaning of another word of similar sound.
WIT: The quick and inventive use of language, often to create humor or insight through clever wordplay.
8 Letters
WORDPLAY: The witty exploitation of the meanings and ambiguities of words, especially in the form of puns.
More About "crossword clue play on words"
The concept of a "play on words" is central to humor, poetry, and especially crosswords. It involves manipulating language to create a humorous or insightful effect by using words that have multiple meanings, or words that sound similar but have different meanings. In crosswords, clues that imply a play on words often require solvers to think laterally, moving beyond the obvious literal interpretation to uncover a hidden layer of meaning.
From simple puns to more complex double entendres, wordplay enriches our communication and challenges our cognitive flexibility. Recognizing these types of clues is a vital skill for any crossword enthusiast, as they are a staple in both cryptic and standard puzzles. Mastering them not only helps you solve the current puzzle but also sharpens your overall linguistic intuition.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Homophones: If a clue sounds like something else, consider words that sound the same but are spelled differently (e.g., "hear" vs. "here"). Clues might use phrases like "reportedly" or "we hear" to indicate this.
- Identify Double Meanings: Many words have more than one meaning. If the literal interpretation of the clue doesn't make sense, think about other definitions of the words involved.
- Consider Cryptic Indicators: While "play on words" is a direct clue, many cryptic crosswords use specific indicators for puns, anagrams, or other wordplay. Familiarize yourself with common cryptic clue types.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words as a guide. They can often provide crucial hints to narrow down the possibilities for a wordplay clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'play on words' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, a 'play on words' clue indicates that the answer might involve a pun, a double meaning, or a phrase that sounds like another. It often requires thinking outside the literal interpretation and considering alternative meanings or homophones.
How can I spot a 'play on words' clue?
Look for linguistic indicators such as 'perhaps,' 'reportedly,' 'sounds like,' 'might mean,' 'in a way,' or cryptic phrasing. Also, a clue that seems unusually simple, nonsensical, or appears to have a hidden meaning often hints at a play on words.
Is 'pun' always the answer for 'play on words'?
While 'PUN' is a very common and direct answer for 'play on words,' other solutions like 'WIT,' 'WORDPLAY,' 'DOUBLE ENTENDRE,' or even specific phrases related to linguistic trickery can also fit, depending on the letter count and other intersecting clues in the puzzle.