Irish Times Crosaire Crossword August 27, 2024 Puzzle Answers

Ran back into line that was cramped Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is NARROW. The crossword clue "Ran back into line that was cramped" with the answer "NARROW" involves both wordplay and a descriptive element. The word "NARROW" means something that is cramped or confined, which fits the definition part of the clue. The wordplay comes from the phrase "Ran back," which suggests reversing the word "RAN."

In crossword puzzles, clues often combine a literal definition with wordplay to guide the solver to the correct answer. Here, "Ran back" cleverly signals the reversal of "RAN," and "into line" indicates that this reversed segment is to be inserted into another word ("ROW").

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Nothing for party to do but to launch by-product Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is OFFSHOOT. The crossword clue "Nothing for party to do but to launch by-product" with the answer "OFFSHOOT" is a cryptic clue that involves both wordplay and a definition. The word "OFFSHOOT" refers to a by-product or something that branches out from a main source. The wordplay in the clue breaks down as follows: "Nothing" is often represented by the letter "O" in cryptic crosswords. "Party" can be abbreviated as "FETE," and "to do" can also mean "SHOOT" (as in to cause something to happen quickly).

In crossword puzzles, especially cryptic ones, clues like this require solvers to deconstruct the clue into its constituent parts, where each word or phrase might represent a letter, abbreviation, or synonym.

Acne to be remedied immediately Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is AT ONCE. The crossword clue "Acne to be remedied immediately" with the answer "AT ONCE" involves an anagram and a direct definition. The phrase "immediately" is a direct definition of "AT ONCE," which means to do something without delay.

In crossword puzzles, clues often combine a straightforward definition with wordplay, such as anagrams, to guide solvers to the correct answer. Here, the solver needs to recognize that "remedied" is an indicator to rearrange the letters of "Acne," and when done correctly, it produces "AT ONCE."

One in lower temperature used as a strainer Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is COLANDER. The crossword clue "One in lower temperature used as a strainer" with the answer "COLANDER" combines wordplay with a direct definition. The word "COLANDER" refers to a kitchen utensil used as a strainer, specifically for draining liquids from foods like pasta.

In crossword puzzles, clues frequently involve inserting letters or numbers into other words to create the solution. Here, the clue "One in lower temperature" cleverly indicates that the solver should place "I" into "COLDER," leading to "COLANDER."

Hospital performs miracles occasionally with equipment Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is MATERIALS. The crossword clue "Hospital performs miracles occasionally with equipment" with the answer "MATERIALS" involves both a straightforward definition and a clever use of wordplay. "MATERIALS" refers to the equipment or supplies used in a hospital setting.

In crossword puzzles, clues often use the technique of selecting letters at specific intervals, such as "occasionally," to form the answer. Here, "performs miracles occasionally" instructs the solver to extract the relevant letters from the word "miracles," while "with equipment" serves as the definition.

Initially, oddball adhered to his solemn vows Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is OATHS. The crossword clue "Initially, oddball adhered to his solemn vows" with the answer "OATHS" is a clever play on both an acrostic and a definition. The word "OATHS" refers to solemn vows or promises, which is the definition provided by the clue. The wordplay involves taking the initial letters of key words in the clue.

In crossword puzzles, clues often involve acrostics, where the solver needs to extract the initial letters of certain words to form the answer. In this case, "Initially" is the key indicator that the first letters should be considered.

Lars likelier to become someone who murders several people over a period Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is SERIAL KILLER. The crossword clue "Lars likelier to become someone who murders several people over a period" with the answer "SERIAL KILLER" involves an anagram and a definition.

In crossword puzzles, anagrams are a common form of wordplay where the solver must rearrange the letters of a given word or phrase to arrive at the correct answer. Here, the clue suggests this by using the phrase "to become," signaling that the letters "Lars likelier" need to be reorganized.

Given to admit failure, making one less eager to work Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is DEMOTIVATING. The crossword clue "Given to admit failure, making one less eager to work" with the answer "DEMOTIVATING" is a well-crafted example of both wordplay and definition. The term "DEMOTIVATING" refers to something that makes a person less eager or less motivated to work.

Crossword clues often blend the literal meaning of words with more abstract or interpretive wordplay. Here, the clue plays on the psychological impact of failure, implying that admitting failure can result in a loss of motivation, hence "DEMOTIVATING."

Lose sense from queasiness? As if! Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is QUASI. The crossword clue "Lose sense from queasiness? As if!" with the answer "QUASI" cleverly plays on both the literal meaning of the word and its phonetic similarity to another word. "QUASI" means "as if" or "seemingly," which directly relates to the definition part of the clue. The wordplay involves interpreting "Lose sense from queasiness" as a way to derive the answer.

In this clue, the solver is guided by the definition "As if!" to think of a word that suggests something is not quite what it seems. The word "QUASI" fits this definition perfectly, meaning something that is almost or seemingly so. The wordplay then adds an extra layer of meaning by connecting "QUASI" with the feeling of "queasiness," subtly suggesting a loss of clarity or reality.

Lacking uniformity, like a member of an unconventional military force, say Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is IRREGULAR. The crossword clue "Lacking uniformity, like a member of an unconventional military force, say" with the answer "IRREGULAR" blends a direct definition with a descriptive analogy.

The word "IRREGULAR" is defined as something that is not uniform or consistent, which directly relates to the first part of the clue, "Lacking uniformity." The second part of the clue, "like a member of an unconventional military force, say," refers to a soldier who is part of an "irregular" military force.

Sarcastic press mimic A-list insiders Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is IRONICAL. The crossword clue "Sarcastic press mimic A-list insiders" with the answer "IRONICAL" involves both a straightforward definition and a clever wordplay. The term "IRONICAL" means sarcastic or mocking, which directly matches the definition part of the clue.

When you combine these elements, the clue cleverly points to the term "IRONICAL," which encapsulates the idea of sarcasm or mockery. The phrase "press mimic" refers to the way sarcasm often involves imitating or exaggerating in a mocking manner, while "A-list insiders" highlights the top-level nature of the sarcasm or irony being employed.

Unconventional priest elected on extreme gamble Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is FRINGE. The crossword clue "Unconventional priest elected on extreme gamble" with the answer "FRINGE" uses a combination of wordplay and definition. The term "FRINGE" means unconventional or on the periphery, which directly relates to the definition part of the clue.

The key to the wordplay is "extreme gamble," which suggests taking the extreme or outer letters of the word "gamble." The extreme letters of "gamble" are "G" and "E." When you combine "P" (priest) with "E" (elected) and add the extremes "G" and "E" from "gamble," you form the word "FRINGE."

Air hostess is removed for having roughest-sounding voice Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is HOARSEST. The crossword clue "Air hostess is removed for having roughest-sounding voice" with the answer "HOARSEST" combines wordplay with a definition to create a clever puzzle. The term "HOARSEST" refers to the quality of having a rough or raspy voice, which directly aligns with the definition "roughest-sounding voice."

In this clue, the phrase "is removed" indicates that the letters of "air hostess" are rearranged or modified to find the answer. By removing the letters "A, I, R, H, O, S, T, E, S, S" (the letters in "air hostess") and focusing on forming a word related to a rough voice, you end up with "HOARSEST."

Young lady in Scotland sent gangster back on ship, specifically Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is LASSIE. The crossword clue "Young lady in Scotland sent gangster back on ship, specifically" with the answer "LASSIE" involves both a direct definition and a bit of wordplay. The term "LASSIE" refers to a young lady or girl, particularly in a Scottish context. The wordplay in this clue is a bit more involved and includes reversing the term "gangster" and incorporating it with a reference to a ship.

The clue breaks down as follows: "gangster" here is represented by "LASS" (a slang term for a girl or young woman) when reversed or considered metaphorically as someone from a different, perhaps less conventional, setting.

Narrowly avoided accident not far from unmarried woman Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is NEAR MISS. The crossword clue "Narrowly avoided accident not far from unmarried woman" with the answer "NEAR MISS" combines a straightforward definition with a bit of wordplay. The term "NEAR MISS" refers to a situation where an accident is narrowly avoided, which fits the definition of "narrowly avoided accident."

The wordplay in the clue involves breaking down the phrase "not far from unmarried woman" to lead to the answer. An "unmarried woman" can be referred to as "MISS," and the term "not far from" suggests something close or nearby, which fits with "NEAR." Combining these elements, "NEAR" (not far from) and "MISS" (unmarried woman), gives the answer "NEAR MISS."

Perch for birds contains regular debris from male fowl Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ROOSTERS. The crossword clue "Perch for birds contains regular debris from male fowl" with the answer "ROOSTERS" involves both a definition and a bit of wordplay. The term "ROOSTERS" refers to male birds, particularly chickens, which is directly related to the definition of "male fowl." Additionally, the word "ROOST" refers to a perch or resting place for birds, which ties into the idea of a "perch for birds."

The wordplay in this clue is found in the phrase "contains regular debris from male fowl." Here, "regular debris" hints at taking every other letter from the phrase "debris." Extracting the letters D, B, I, and S gives us "ROOST," and when combined with the context of "male fowl" (ROOSTERS), it leads to the complete answer "ROOSTERS."

Happen to firm up with copper at top of road Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is OCCUR. The crossword clue "Happen to firm up with copper at top of road" with the answer "OCCUR" involves both wordplay and a straightforward definition. The term "OCCUR" means "to happen," which directly matches the definition part of the clue. The wordplay requires interpreting the phrase "firm up with copper at top of road" to arrive at the answer.

In this clue, "firm up" suggests something solid or certain, and "copper" is often abbreviated as "CU" in crossword puzzles. The phrase "at top of road" implies using the initial letter of "road," which is "R." Combining these elements, you get "CU" (copper) and "R" (top of road), which, when placed together with the idea of "firm up," helps form the answer "OCCUR."

Disaster is so foretold for infantrymen Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is FOOT SOLDIERS. The crossword clue "Disaster is so foretold for infantrymen" with the answer "FOOT SOLDIERS" combines a straightforward definition with a bit of wordplay. The term "FOOT SOLDIERS" refers to infantrymen, who are soldiers that fight on foot. This directly matches the definition part of the clue.

The wordplay involves interpreting the phrase "disaster is so foretold" to lead to the answer. Here, "disaster" can hint at a dire or challenging situation, and "is so foretold" suggests something that has been predicted or anticipated. By combining these elements, "FOOT SOLDIERS" emerges as the answer because infantrymen (foot soldiers) are often associated with challenging or dire situations in a military context.

Appears with spectacles fogged up in television drama serial Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is SOAP OPERA. The crossword clue "Appears with spectacles fogged up in television drama serial" with the answer "SOAP OPERA" uses both wordplay and definition. The term "SOAP OPERA" refers to a genre of television drama serials characterized by their ongoing, dramatic storylines. This fits the definition of "television drama serial" directly.

The wordplay in the clue involves interpreting the phrase "spectacles fogged up" to hint at the answer. When "spectacles" (glasses) are fogged up, they can obscure vision, leading to the idea of something appearing "blurred" or unclear. The word "SOAP" can be linked to the term "opera" in the context of television drama. "SOAP" often refers to soap operas, which are a type of drama serial.

Strange thing to overdose beside detective, and say thank you? Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ODDITY. The crossword clue "Strange thing to overdose beside detective, and say thank you?" with the answer "ODDITY" involves both wordplay and definition. The term "ODDITY" refers to something strange or unusual, which matches the definition part of the clue—"strange thing."

The wordplay comes from interpreting the phrase "to overdose beside detective." Here, "to overdose" is abbreviated as "OD" and "detective" often refers to the letter "D" (commonly used in crossword puzzles to signify 'detective'). When you place "OD" next to "D," you get "ODD." Adding "ITY," which sounds like "thank you" in the sense of a polite gesture or acknowledgment (though indirectly), you form the complete word "ODDITY."

Thoroughly beat rather drab freshman, in essence Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is THRASH. The crossword clue "Thoroughly beat rather drab freshman, in essence" with the answer "THRASH" combines both a straightforward definition and a bit of wordplay. The term "THRASH" means to beat or strike something thoroughly, which directly matches the definition of "thoroughly beat."

The wordplay involves interpreting the phrase "rather drab freshman, in essence." To solve this, consider "rather drab" as a descriptor for something dull or ordinary. In crossword puzzles, the phrase "in essence" often hints at using the core or central part of a word. In this case, the essence of the word "drab" is "RA," and combining it with "TH" from "rather" and "SH" from "freshman" (using a broad interpretation of initial or key letters) leads to "THRASH."

Financial establishment takes vacation on national days of recreation Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is BANK HOLIDAYS. The crossword clue "Financial establishment takes vacation on national days of recreation" with the answer "BANK HOLIDAYS" involves both a direct definition and some wordplay. The term "BANK HOLIDAYS" refers to public holidays when financial institutions, like banks, are closed, which fits the definition of "days of recreation" and aligns with the idea of a "vacation."

The wordplay in this clue can be broken down into two parts. The "financial establishment" is a bank, and "takes vacation" suggests a break or holiday. The phrase "on national days of recreation" further supports the idea of holidays or days off.

Pre-dinner drinks? After I sip cocktail! Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is APERITIFS. The crossword clue "Pre-dinner drinks? After I sip cocktail!" with the answer "APERITIFS" involves both a straightforward definition and a touch of wordplay. The term "APERITIFS" refers to drinks served before a meal, which fits the definition of "pre-dinner drinks."

The wordplay in this clue is found in the phrase "After I sip cocktail!" which suggests an anagram. The letters in the phrase "I sip" are mixed with "cocktail" to form the word "APERITIFS." By rearranging these letters, you get "APERITIFS," which is the term for drinks typically enjoyed before dinner.

Large financial gains from murders? Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is KILLINGS. The crossword clue "Large financial gains from murders?" with the answer "KILLINGS" combines a straightforward definition with a touch of wordplay. The term "KILLINGS" can refer to large profits or financial gains, as in the phrase "making a killing" in business or investment, which fits the idea of "large financial gains."

The wordplay in the clue involves the dual meaning of the word "KILLINGS." While "killings" primarily refers to acts of murder, in a more colloquial sense, it also means substantial profits or gains. The clue plays on this dual meaning by linking "murders" to the slang usage of "killings" for financial success.

Afflict top lawyer to feel great sorrow Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is AGGRIEVE. The crossword clue "Afflict top lawyer to feel great sorrow" with the answer "AGGRIEVE" involves both a direct definition and a bit of wordplay. The term "AGGRIEVE" means to cause someone to feel great sorrow or distress, which directly fits the definition of "to feel great sorrow."

The wordplay in this clue is based on breaking down the phrase "top lawyer" to lead to the answer. In legal terms, the top lawyer or barrister might be referred to by the abbreviation "AG" (for Attorney General). When combined with "to feel," which is part of the solution, and the idea of afflicting or causing distress, you arrive at "AGGRIEVE."

Tuesday, August 27, 2024 Irish Times Crosaire Crossword Puzzle Answers

ACROSS

1 Ran back into line that was cramped: NARROW

4 Nothing for party to do but to launch by-product: OFFSHOOT

9 Acne to be remedied immediately: AT ONCE

10 One in lower temperature used as a strainer: COLANDER

12 Hospital performs miracles occasionally with equipment: MATERIALS

13 Initially, oddball adhered to his solemn vows: OATHS

14 Lars likelier to become someone who murders several people over a period: SERIAL KILLER

18 Given to admit failure, making one less eager to work: DEMOTIVATING

21 Lose sense from queasiness? As if!: QUASI

22 Lacking uniformity, like a member of an unconventional military force, say: IRREGULAR

24 Sarcastic press mimic A-list insiders: IRONICAL

25 Unconventional priest elected on extreme gamble: FRINGE

26 Air hostess is removed for having roughest-sounding voice: HOARSEST

27 Young lady in Scotland sent gangster back on ship, specifically: LASSIE

DOWN

1 Narrowly avoided accident not far from unmarried woman: NEAR MISS

2 Perch for birds contains regular debris from male fowl: ROOSTERS

3 Happen to firm up with copper at top of road: OCCUR

5 Disaster is so foretold for infantrymen: FOOT SOLDIERS

6 Appears with spectacles fogged up in television drama serial: SOAP OPERA

7 Strange thing to overdose beside detective, and say thank you?: ODDITY

8 Thoroughly beat rather drab freshman, in essence: THRASH

11 Financial establishment takes vacation on national days of recreation: BANK HOLIDAYS

15 Pre-dinner drinks? After I sip cocktail!: APERITIFS

16 Large financial gains from murders?: KILLINGS

17 Afflict top lawyer to feel great sorrow: AGGRIEVE

19 Finally asks who in France is calling for silence at soft squelching sound: SQUISH

20 Father and deity are opening temple: PAGODA

23 In Ireland, police road intersecting local sports organisation: GARDA