Cryptic Crossword Clue Types

Most cryptic crosswords employ a variety of different clue types and recognising the type of clue is part of the battle in solving it. Some clue types are more common than others, but there are many that crop up time and time again in different guises.

Anagrams

An anagram is a clue where the answer is formed by rearranging the letters of another word or phrase, usually given as part of the clue. For example, the clue “orchestra arrangement for Beethoven’s Ninth?” could have the answer “Ode to Joy”.

Container clues

A container clue contains two parts – the container and the contents. The contents go into the container to make the answer. For example, the clue “putting pen to paper” could have the answer “writing”.

Hidden Words or Phrases

This is where a word or phrase is hidden inside another word or phrase. For example, the clue “has time for rest and relaxation” could have the answer “relax”.

Reversal clues

A reversal clue is where the answer is found by reversing (or reading backwards) another word or phrase, usually given as part of the clue. For example, the clue “animal seen in pet shop?” could have the answer “dog”.

Subtraction clues

A subtraction clue is where a word or phrase is taken away from another word or phrase to make the answer. For example, the clue “heated exchanges” could have the answer “argues”.

Assorted other clue types

There are many other clue types that can be used in cryptic crosswords, including: abbreviations, charades, clues containing foreign words, clues with multiple definitions, and wordplay using homophones.

Word Constructions

A word construction clue is where the answer is built up from a series of smaller words or parts. For example, the clue “one following suit perhaps” could have the answer “overcoat”.

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Acrostic clues

An acrostic clue is where the answer is spelled out by the first letter of each word in the clue. For example, the clue “Neat and tidy” could have the answer “clean”.

Homophone clues

A homophone clue is where a word or phrase is used that sounds the same as the answer, but has a different meaning. For example, the clue “I heard you were seeing red” could have the answer “mad”.

Punning clues

A punning clue is where a word or phrase is used that has a double meaning. For example, the clue “a new type of film” could have the answer “celluloid”.

Initials clues

An initials clue is where the answer is spelled out by the first letter of each word in the clue. For example, the clue “Neat and tidy” could have the answer “clean”.

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