Insights on Today’s Crossword Clues

Today, we dive into the fascinating world of crosswords, where each clue invites us to think creatively and flex our linguistic muscles. The clues presented today are both challenging and entertaining, showcasing the cleverness of their construction. Let’s break down the clues and explore their potential solutions while offering some thoughtful analysis.

Noteworthy Clues and Their Interpretations

• 1 Down: *Brilliant contribution from Graeme Garden (4)*
• 2 Down: *If you’re not sure, keep it! (4,4)*
• 3 Down: *Twice turn round and, losing heart, deny being pious (5-5)*
• 4 Down: *One of Barry, Robin or Maurice performing – what an animal! (6)*
• 5 Down: *When at first you are getting frisky, position doesn’t matter (8)*
• 6 Down: *Pale, stop messing around (4)*
• 7 Down: *Position away from the freezer? (6)*
• 8 Down: *Tire jack (4)*
• 13 Down: *Floods burrows (5)*
• 15 Down: *Slippery customer felt up in quite sweet surroundings (10)*
• 16 Down: *Spray a bit of scent on 3 (5)*
• 18 Down: *Those restoring sight with chicken’s heart and rabbit’s foot could be witches (8)*
• 20 Down: *White offspring of stallions and donkeys sounds like a horse (8)*
• 22 Down: *Esteban’s really, really upset Japanese schoolgirl (3-3)*
• 23 Down: *One that writes about grams, a tonne, or an ounce? (3,3)*
• 24 Down: *Spooner’s to drop some pounds somewhere in Scotland (4,4)*
• 25 Down: *See 24 Down*
• 27 Down: *‘Green sage stems in yogurt’ and other delicious appetizers (4)*

Thoughts on the Clues

Each clue serves as a delightful puzzle, requiring not just knowledge but also an appreciation for wordplay. For instance:

• The clue for 3 Down is particularly intriguing, as it plays with the idea of “turning” and “losing heart,” suggesting a deeper meaning that may relate to a common phrase.
• 18 Down hints at witchcraft, tying in elements of folklore with wordplay, showcasing how crosswords can connect cultural references.
• Clues like 20 Down cleverly utilize homophones, which always add a layer of complexity and fun to the solving experience.

Crosswords are not merely about filling in letters; they are a blend of logic, culture, and creativity. The variety of themes and wordplay in today’s clues exemplifies why many find this pastime so engaging and rewarding.

For those interested in the original clues and their possible solutions, I encourage you to check out the full crossword at the source: The Guardian.