crossword in name only – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "crossword in name only" by Letter Count
6 Letters
ENIGMA: Something mysterious or puzzling; a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand, resembling a 'crossword' in its complexity but not its form.
7 Letters
MYSTERY: Something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain. A situation that is a 'mystery' can feel like a complex puzzle or 'crossword' to unravel.
9 Letters
CONUNDRUM: A perplexing and difficult problem, which, like a crossword, can be a mental challenge, but is not literally a grid-based word puzzle.
More About "crossword in name only"
The clue "crossword in name only" is a classic example of how crossword setters use figurative language. It asks you to think about something that possesses the *qualities* of a crossword – complexity, a need for deciphering, a challenging nature – without actually being a printed grid of intersecting words. This type of clue tests your ability to interpret metaphors and idiomatic expressions.
Answers to such clues often point to abstract concepts or situations that are inherently puzzling or difficult to resolve. The phrase "in name only" is key, signalling that the literal definition of 'crossword' is not what's sought, but rather a parallel concept that shares its core essence as a mental challenge or intricate problem.
Understanding these nuances is crucial for becoming a proficient crossword solver. It moves you beyond simple synonym matching to a deeper appreciation of wordplay and linguistic flexibility, often leading to more satisfying 'aha!' moments.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Figurative Language: When a clue seems odd or doesn't have a direct synonym, consider if it's using a metaphor, an idiom, or a play on words, like "in name only."
- Think About Context: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can provide hints for metaphorical clues. What kind of 'puzzle' might fit a broader narrative?
- Consider Abstract Nouns: For clues that suggest concepts rather than concrete objects, focus on abstract nouns that describe situations, feelings, or qualities. Words like 'dilemma', 'enigma', or 'quandary' often fit.
- Check Word Lengths: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use the required length to narrow down potential metaphorical answers. This can significantly reduce options.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'crossword in name only' imply?
This phrase typically refers to something that has the *characteristics* of a crossword – perhaps it's complex, puzzling, or requires careful thought to decipher – but it isn't literally a crossword puzzle. It's a metaphorical 'crossword'.
How do you approach cryptic clues like 'crossword in name only'?
For such clues, think beyond the literal meaning. Consider synonyms for 'puzzle', 'mystery', 'complex situation', or 'riddle'. The phrase 'in name only' indicates a metaphorical usage rather than a direct definition, so look for words describing abstract challenges.
Can 'riddle' be an answer for 'crossword in name only'?
Yes, 'riddle' can be a suitable answer. A riddle is a question or statement intentionally phrased so as to require ingenuity in ascertaining its answer, which aligns with the idea of something being a 'crossword' (a mental challenge) but not in its literal form.