double crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "double crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PUN: A form of wordplay that exploits multiple meanings of a term, or of similar-sounding words, creating a 'double' entendre.
4 Letters
DUAL: Signifying two, or consisting of two parts; a direct interpretation of 'double'.
7 Letters
CRYPTIC: Refers to a type of crossword clue that has two parts – a definition and wordplay, hence 'double'.
TWOFOLD: Meaning consisting of two parts or elements; double.
ANAGRAM: A word or phrase formed by rearranging the letters of a different word or phrase, often involving a 'double' interpretation.
More About "double crossword clue"
The phrase "double crossword clue" often points towards the intricate world of cryptic crosswords, where clues are designed with multiple layers of interpretation. Unlike straightforward definitions, these clues demand solvers to look beyond the surface meaning, identifying both a direct definition and a playful wordplay element that leads to the same solution. This dual nature is what makes them 'double' and notoriously challenging, yet immensely rewarding to solve.
Understanding a 'double' clue involves dissecting it into its distinct components. One part will usually provide a literal definition for the answer, while another part will offer a form of wordplay, such as an anagram, charade, hidden word, reversal, or homophone. The true art lies in recognizing how these two seemingly disparate elements converge on a single word, requiring a flexible and creative approach to language.
For example, a clue might read, "Crazy about new game (7)". Here, "Crazy" could hint at an anagram, while "new game" is the definition for the answer. The 'double' aspect makes these clues fascinating puzzles in themselves, pushing solvers to engage deeply with vocabulary and linguistic nuances.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Identify the Clue Type: Determine if you're dealing with a direct definition, a cryptic clue, or a specific type of wordplay. Look for indicators of anagrams, hidden words, or reversals.
- Break Down Cryptic Clues: For 'double' clues, try to separate the definition part from the wordplay part. The definition is usually straightforward, while the wordplay requires more analysis.
- Consider Synonyms and Homophones: Sometimes the 'double' nature comes from words that sound alike but have different spellings or meanings, or simply multiple synonyms that fit the letter count.
- Check Cross-References: Use solved intersecting words as critical hints. Often, a letter from a perpendicular answer is the breakthrough needed for a difficult 'double' clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'double' crossword clue?
A 'double' crossword clue often refers to a clue that has multiple layers of meaning or wordplay. This is most commonly seen in cryptic crosswords where clues contain both a straightforward definition and a separate wordplay element (like an anagram, charade, or hidden word) that leads to the same answer. It requires solvers to 'double' their thinking process.
How do I identify a cryptic crossword clue?
Cryptic clues are typically characterized by their two-part structure: a definition and a wordplay element. They often use specific indicators for anagrams (e.g., 'confused', 'mixed up'), charades ('on', 'with'), reversals ('up', 'from left to right'), and hidden words ('in', 'part of'). Look for unexpected phrasing or punctuation.
Are all crossword clues 'double'?
No, not all crossword clues are 'double'. Many crosswords, especially quick or standard crosswords, use direct definitions. 'Double' clues are primarily a feature of cryptic crosswords, which are designed to be more challenging and involve intricate wordplay.