Crossword Clue More

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Crossword Clue More
Crossword Clue More

Crossword Clue: More Than You Bargained For? A Deep Dive into Cryptic Clues

Crossword puzzles, those seemingly simple grids of squares, can hide a world of linguistic complexity. And nowhere is this more apparent than in the cryptic clues, those devilishly clever wordplay puzzles that often leave solvers scratching their heads. This article delves into the fascinating world of crossword clues, focusing specifically on clues that hint at "more" than meets the eye.

Understanding "More" in Crossword Clues

The word "more" in a crossword clue rarely means a simple addition. Instead, it often acts as a subtle indicator of several possible cryptic devices:

1. Addition or Augmentation

Sometimes, "more" signifies a straightforward addition. For instance, a clue might read: "More fruit (5)" and the answer might be PLUMS (a type of fruit) + MORE (additional letters to form the word). This is a less common usage, as cryptic clues usually rely on more sophisticated techniques.

2. Suffixes and Prefixes

More frequently, "more" hints at the addition of a suffix or prefix. Think of clues like:

  • "More refined (8)": This could lead to answers like POLISHED (adding a suffix to make the base word "polish" more refined).
  • "More assertive (7)": The answer might be BOLLDER (adding a prefix to "bold").

The key here is to look for base words that, with a simple addition, fit the clue's definition.

3. Hidden Words

A sneaky use of "more" can be to indicate a hidden word within a longer phrase. The clue might disguise itself by saying:

  • "More in the mix (6)": This could indicate the hidden word "among" within a longer phrase, suggesting that 'among' is "more" contained within the phrase.

4. Double Meaning

Cryptic clues often play on words with multiple meanings. "More" can indicate that you need to consider the answer in its more expanded, figurative sense, rather than the literal. For example:

  • "More noise, more trouble (4)": This clue might point to the answer "HISS," as a snake's hiss can cause more trouble.

Tackling Cryptic Clues: A Strategic Approach

Solving cryptic clues requires patience, practice, and a keen eye for detail. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Identify the definition: Often, a part of the clue acts as a straightforward definition of the answer.
  2. Look for wordplay: Identify the cryptic element within the clue; this might be an anagram, a hidden word, a charade, or another cryptic device.
  3. Consider "more" strategically: As seen above, 'more' may require you to add letters, add prefixes or suffixes, or consider a hidden word, rather than taking it literally.
  4. Check letter counts: The number in parentheses at the end of the clue specifies the number of letters in the answer. Use this to check the viability of your solution.
  5. Experiment: If you're stuck, try different approaches. Often, the answer comes only after several attempts and some educated guesses.

Beyond "More": Expanding Your Cryptic Clue Knowledge

Mastering the cryptic crossword clue is a journey, not a destination. To hone your skills further, explore other cryptic devices such as anagrams, charades, reversals, and container clues. Practice is crucial; work through various crosswords, and gradually you will unravel the secrets of these clever word puzzles.

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