What makes a crossword clue 'excellent'?

An excellent crossword clue is typically concise, precise, fair, and often features clever wordplay, double meanings, or misdirection without being overly obscure or misleading. It should provide just enough information to lead a solver to the correct answer with a satisfying 'aha!' moment.

How do you identify an 'excellent' clue while solving?

You often recognize an excellent clue by its elegant construction, its ability to surprise you with a simple yet brilliant twist, or by how it perfectly blends a seemingly direct definition with a deceptive surface reading. They are the clues that stick with you after you've solved the puzzle.

Are there different types of 'excellent' clues?

Yes, 'excellent' clues can encompass various types, including cryptic clues with elaborate wordplay (anagrams, reversals, hidden words), definition-only clues that are perfectly precise, or straight clues that use a clever synonym. The common thread is their ingenious design and solvability.

excellent crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "excellent crossword puzzle clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.

Solutions for "excellent crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count

3 Letters

APT: Short and precisely fitting, indicating a well-chosen word or concept for the clue.

5 Letters

WITTY: Characterized by quick and inventive verbal humor, a hallmark of an excellent crossword clue.

SHARP: Clear, distinct, and well-defined, often used to describe a concise and ingenious clue.

6 Letters

CLEVER: Quick to understand, learn, and devise or apply ideas; displaying ingenuity and often a touch of misdirection.

9 Letters

BRILLIANT: Exceptionally clever or talented, indicating a clue that stands out for its ingenuity or elegance.

More About "excellent crossword puzzle clue"

The phrase "excellent crossword puzzle clue" points to the pinnacle of crossword artistry. A clue considered excellent is often one that balances clarity with misdirection, leading the solver down an enjoyable path of deduction. It might use clever wordplay, a well-placed pun, or an ingenious double meaning that makes the solution feel both surprising and inevitable once discovered.

What sets an excellent clue apart is its ability to evoke an "aha!" moment—a sudden realization of the answer after a period of delightful struggle. These clues are usually concise, fair, and elegant, demonstrating the constructor's skill in crafting a challenging yet solvable enigma. They avoid obscurity or reliance on niche knowledge, instead focusing on common words or concepts presented in an uncommon, witty light.

Ultimately, an excellent crossword clue enhances the solver's experience, turning a simple word puzzle into a true intellectual game. It celebrates the versatility of language and the satisfaction of cracking a well-designed code, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

To master the art of solving crosswords, especially when facing clues like "excellent crossword puzzle clue," consider these tips:

Analyze Word Length: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is your first and most reliable constraint, eliminating many possibilities immediately.
Look for Wordplay Indicators: Clues described as "excellent" often hint at wordplay. Be alert for words that suggest anagrams ("mixed," "broken"), reversals ("back," "up"), or homophones ("sounds like").
Consider Multiple Meanings: Many top-tier clues leverage words with multiple meanings. If a direct definition doesn't fit, think about alternative interpretations of the words in the clue.
Context is Key: While the clue itself is paramount, sometimes the surrounding solved letters or the puzzle's theme can provide vital context or a hint towards the style of the answer.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "excellent" imply in a crossword clue?

In the context of a crossword clue, "excellent" typically suggests that the answer is highly suitable, cleverly conceived, or perfectly fitting. It often implies ingenuity in the clue's construction, leading to a satisfying solution.

How do constructors create "excellent" crossword clues?

Constructors craft excellent clues by employing techniques like precise definitions, ingenious wordplay (puns, anagrams, hidden words), misdirection, and ensuring a fair challenge. They strive for conciseness and an "aha!" moment for the solver.

Can an "excellent" clue be difficult?

Absolutely. An excellent clue can be quite difficult, but its difficulty stems from cleverness and wit rather than obscurity or unfairness. The challenge is part of what makes it "excellent," as the solution feels more rewarding.