Cryptic crosswords are a popular form of puzzle that require a different kind of thinking compared to regular crossword puzzles. The clues in cryptic crosswords are typically composed of two parts: a definition of the answer and a wordplay element that helps the solver arrive at the correct solution. They can be challenging but also rewarding once you start to crack the code.
If you’re new to cryptic crosswords, it can be helpful to start with some examples to get a feel for how they work. Here are a few examples of cryptic crossword clues to help you get started:
Cryptic Crossword Examples
Cryptic Crossword Examples
1. “Sailor confused by a storm (6)”
Answer: MARINER
In this clue, “sailor” is the definition of the answer, while “confused by a storm” is the wordplay element indicating that the letters in the word “a storm” should be rearranged to form the solution, which is MARINER.
2. “Cook takes a long time to get an Italian dish (7)”
Answer: LASAGNA
Here, “Italian dish” is the definition, while “cook takes a long time” suggests that the letters in “a long time” should be placed inside the word for “an Italian” to yield the answer, LASAGNA.
3. “One finds a king in a Spanish city (5)”
Answer: SEVIL
In this clue, “Spanish city” is the definition, and “one” indicates that the Roman numeral for one (I) should be placed inside the name of a king (SEV) to form the answer, SEVIL.
4. “Crafty insect? (4)”
Answer: WILE
Here, “crafty” is the definition, and “insect” is a homophone indicator suggesting that the answer sounds like the word for a small insect, WILE.
5. “One with an inflated ego? (9)”
Answer: BALLOONER
In this clue, “inflated ego” is the definition, and the wordplay element suggests that the answer is a play on words involving the word “balloon” and someone who might have an inflated ego, resulting in the answer BALLOONER.
With practice and patience, you’ll start to recognize the patterns and tricks commonly used in cryptic crosswords. Keep honing your skills, and soon you’ll be able to solve even the most challenging puzzles with ease!