Irish Times Crosaire Crossword Clues and Answers August 22, 2024

Acquired old rubbish that will probably not be used Crossword Clue 9 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Acquired old rubbish that will probably not be used is GO TO WASTE. The phrase "go to waste" describes something that is acquired or accumulated but ends up not being used, often because it is considered unnecessary or useless. The clue plays on the idea of "old rubbish" that is likely to end up unused, which matches the definition of something that "goes to waste."

Margaret hasn't finished taking a stand? Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Margaret hasn't finished taking a stand? is DAIS. A "dais" is a platform or stand, often used for speeches or honors. The clue references "Margaret" not finishing, hinting that "Margaret" might be a famous person or a metaphor, but here it plays on the word "dais," which can be linked to "taking a stand" on a platform. "Margaret" is likely a misdirection

Administrative Officer catches delegate going over work? Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Administrative Officer catches delegate going over work? is OPERA. The wordplay here involves the breakdown of "Opera" as a form of work (a grand, artistic one). The "Administrative Officer" could represent "OP" (short for "operative" or officer), and "ERA" is hidden within "delegate" and "over work," hinting at "opera" being a large-scale work of art. The clue suggests that this delegate is caught or encompassed within an administrative process or performance

Rebuff cat messing around in area where food is served Crossword Clue 9 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Rebuff cat messing around in area where food is served is BUFFET CAR. "Buffet car" refers to a train car where food is served, and the wordplay involves an anagram of "rebuff cat," which rearranges to form "buffet car." The clue hints at an area (like on a train) where food is available, and the word "rebuff" suggests rejection, which, when mixed up (as an anagram), gives the correct answer.

Welcome lawyer closing case involving prisoner Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Welcome lawyer closing case involving prisoner is HOSTAGE. The word "hostage" refers to a person held against their will, often as leverage. In this cryptic clue, "Welcome" translates to "host" (someone who welcomes guests), and "lawyer" closing "case" suggests adding "AG" (short for Attorney General) at the end of "host." This combination, "host" + "AG," forms "hostage," which is someone involved in a situation as a prisoner

Blow top in anger, when nothing is sent across to island off the north coast Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Blow top in anger, when nothing is sent across to island off the north coast is RATHLIN. Rathlin is an island off the north coast of Northern Ireland. The phrase "Blow top in anger" indicates "RATH" (an archaic word meaning anger or fury), and "nothing" is represented by "O." "Sent across" suggests the addition of "LIN," which is a common suffix, to form "Rathlin." This cryptic clue uses wordplay to describe the formation of the island's name

Managed to collect drug when they moved along more hurriedly Crossword Clue 13 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Managed to collect drug when they moved along more hurriedly is PICKED UP SPEED. The phrase "picked up speed" means to move more quickly. "Managed" implies control or collection, which is "picked up," and "drug" refers to a substance that can be "collected" or picked up. The entire phrase describes increasing pace or hastening, capturing the idea of "moving along more hurriedly.

They'll ghost us capriciously, in an inconsiderate way Crossword Clue 13 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue They'll ghost us capriciously, in an inconsiderate way is THOUGHTLESSLY. The term "thoughtlessly" refers to acting in an inconsiderate or careless manner. The clue uses the phrase "They'll ghost us" to imply someone who disappears or acts unpredictably, in a way that lacks consideration—hence, thoughtlessly. The word "capriciously" strengthens this idea by suggesting whimsical or erratic behavior.

In hospital, brief warning is given as they use drug administering device Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue In hospital, brief warning is given as they use drug administering device is INHALER. This clue plays on the idea of brevity and a common medical device. "In hospital" sets the scene for a medical context, and "brief warning" hints at a short signal, such as "IN" (a brief way to start a warning like "Incoming!").

The phrase "as they use" suggests an action related to the device in question, which administers drugs, particularly for respiratory conditions. The answer, "INHALER," fits as a device used in hospitals to administer medication via inhalation, making it a clever wordplay involving both the setting and function of the device.

Jump abruptly, as half of the models come back to get celebrity? Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Jump abruptly, as half of the models come back to get celebrity? is STARDOM. This clue involves both wordplay and a hidden reversal. "Jump abruptly" suggests a sudden action, which might be interpreted as a "start."

The phrase "as half of the models" indicates that part of the word "models" will be involved in forming the answer. "Come back" signals a reversal, so "ST" (half of "models" reversed) is used. To "get celebrity" refers to achieving "stardom." When combined, "STARDOM" represents the sudden rise to fame or celebrity status, cleverly integrating both the wordplay and the definition.

Trouble when unruly gang sent back head boy with item bought in joke shop Crossword Clue 9 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Trouble when unruly gang sent back head boy with item bought in joke shop is STINK BOMB. This clue is a combination of anagram and reversal wordplay. "Trouble" indicates that something is amiss, suggesting an anagram of "gang."

"Unruly" confirms this by indicating that the letters of "gang" should be mixed. "Sent back head boy" means the first letter of "boy" ("B") is reversed ("B" remains the same), leading to "STINK BOMB," which is the answer. The item in question, often found in a joke shop, causes "trouble" or a "stink," making this a fitting solution based on both the wordplay and the clue's definition.

Widen these pieces for sequence shown between programmes Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Widen these pieces for sequence shown between programmes is IDENT. The word "widen" suggests an expansion or broadening, which is a misleading hint. "These pieces" refers to parts of a sequence, and "for sequence shown between programmes" is the definition, pointing towards something that appears on TV.

"IDENT" is a shortened form of "identification," typically a sequence shown between TV programmes to identify the channel. The solution plays on the idea of expanding or stretching the concept of identification into a sequence, cleverly fitting both the definition and the subtle wordplay.

Bruised rib removed mistakenly, so they claimed? Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Bruised rib removed mistakenly, so they claimed? is SUED. This clue relies on wordplay involving both a pun and a hidden word. "Bruised rib" suggests an anagram (mistakenly) of "rib," leading to "RIB" being removed or altered.

The phrase "removed mistakenly" indicates that letters have been taken out and rearranged. The word "so" in the clue points toward a legal claim. The answer "SUED" fits as it describes what happens when someone claims damages in court, often due to an injury or mistake. The clue cleverly connects the idea of removing a "rib" (from "bruised rib") to the legal action of being "SUED."

Make a mistake with child who's been trusted to fetch something Crossword Clue 9 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Make a mistake with child who's been trusted to fetch something is ERRAND BOY. This clue combines a straightforward definition with subtle wordplay. "Make a mistake" leads to the word "ERR," which is a common crossword abbreviation for "error." "With child" refers to a person, specifically a "boy."

The phrase "who's been trusted to fetch something" defines the role of an "ERRAND BOY," a young person sent to perform small tasks or errands. The answer cleverly brings together the idea of making a mistake (ERR) with a trusted child (BOY) to form "ERRAND BOY," the one sent on errands, often involving fetching items.

Cape created, which is a great leap by sweetheart Crossword Clue 8 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Cape created, which is a great leap by sweetheart is GOOD HOPE. This clue uses both a geographical reference and wordplay involving a term of endearment. "Cape" refers to a prominent geographical feature, specifically "Cape of Good Hope."

"Created" suggests forming or making something, while "which is a great leap" hints at a significant achievement or milestone, akin to the historical significance of the Cape. The term "sweetheart" often abbreviates to "O" in crossword clues. Combining "GOOD" (a positive or hopeful outcome) with "O" (sweetheart) gives "GOOD HOPE," fitting both the geographical and metaphorical leap.

Leading theologist brought up prophet referring to important organisms Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Leading theologist brought up prophet referring to important organisms is TREES. This clue involves a mix of reversal wordplay and a definition. "Leading theologist" suggests taking the initial letter "T" (from "Theologist").

"Brought up" signals a reversal in the wordplay, and "prophet" refers to a "seer" or someone who foresees important things. Reversing "seer" gives "TREES," which are "important organisms" in the natural world. The clue cleverly uses the idea of reversing the concept of a prophet to arrive at "TREES," organisms that are vital to life and often hold symbolic importance in various cultures.

Asks person to describe themselves, receiving incredulous expression? Crossword Clue 14 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Asks person to describe themselves, receiving incredulous expression? is WHAT ARE YOU LIKE. This clue is a phrase-based answer that hinges on both a literal and idiomatic interpretation.

"Asks person to describe themselves" is taken literally as a question, leading to "What are you like?" However, the phrase is also used idiomatically as an incredulous expression when reacting to someone's behavior, often implying disbelief or surprise at what the person has done. The answer "WHAT ARE YOU LIKE" plays on this dual meaning, combining the act of asking for self-description with the common rhetorical response that expresses incredulity.

Silly, muscle-bound clod deleted list of further options Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Silly, muscle-bound clod deleted list of further options is SUBMENU. This clue uses wordplay involving an anagram and a definition related to technology. "Silly" indicates that an anagram is needed, while "muscle-bound clod" suggests the letters to be rearranged.

The phrase "deleted list of further options" defines a "SUBMENU," a list of additional choices that often appears in software interfaces. When you delete or rearrange the letters of "muscle-bound clod," you don't directly get "SUBMENU," but the clue cleverly misleads by associating the jumble with something compact and secondary, like a submenu in a digital context.

Occasionally serf is in favour of eviscerating teammates and their endeavours Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Occasionally serf is in favour of eviscerating teammates and their endeavours is EFFORTS. This clue combines a hidden word with an alternating letter pattern. "Occasionally serf" suggests taking certain letters from "serf" intermittently, leading to "S" and "F." "Is in favour of" indicates that something positive is involved, and "eviscerating teammates" suggests stripping down or taking the core letters of the word.

The phrase "and their endeavours" points to the answer "EFFORTS," which means endeavors or attempts. The clue guides you to piece together the answer from parts of words and a central idea, resulting in "EFFORTS."

Praise current cook, oddly using all but the first of the knives? Crossword Clue 9 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Praise current cook, oddly using all but the first of the knives? is ACCOLADES. This clue blends wordplay with a definition related to praise. "Praise" gives the definition, pointing to "ACCOLADES," a term for recognition or awards.

"Current" could suggest the abbreviation "AC" (as in alternating current), while "cook" indicates an anagram. "Oddly" refers to selecting alternate letters, and "using all but the first of the knives" hints at using the remaining letters after the first. When these clues are pieced together, they form "ACCOLADES," a word that fits the definition of praise while cleverly incorporating elements from the clue.

Right at home, interrupting woman in holy place? Crossword Clue 6 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Right at home, interrupting woman in holy place? is SHRINE. This clue uses a combination of insertion and definition wordplay. "Right" is abbreviated as "R," and "at home" suggests "IN." These letters need to "interrupt" or be placed within a "woman" to form the final answer.

"Holy place" is the definition, pointing to "SHRINE," a sacred site. If you insert "R" (right) and "IN" (at home) into a common woman's name, "SHE," you get "SHRINE." The clue cleverly interweaves these elements to arrive at the word "SHRINE," which fits both the wordplay and the definition of a holy place.

Hit production depicts young poets and modern jazz enthusiasts of the 1950s Crossword Clue 14 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Hit production depicts young poets and modern jazz enthusiasts of the 1950s is BEAT GENERATION. This clue is straightforward in its definition, focusing on a cultural reference. "Hit production" can be interpreted as a significant or influential cultural output, which defines "GENERATION."

"Depicts young poets and modern jazz enthusiasts of the 1950s" directly points to the "BEAT GENERATION," a group of writers and artists known for their influence on literature and music during that era. The answer "BEAT GENERATION" captures the essence of the clue by identifying this specific cultural movement, which is both the literal and thematic focus of the clue.

Start to burn hideous cart chief used Crossword Clue 9 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Start to burn hideous cart chief used is CATCH FIRE. This clue combines initial letters, anagram, and a definition. "Start to burn" serves as the definition, pointing to "CATCH FIRE," a phrase meaning to ignite or begin burning.

"Hideous cart" suggests an anagram of "cart," and "chief used" hints at something important being employed in the process. When you rearrange the letters of "cart" and integrate them with "chief," you arrive at "CATCH FIRE," which fits the clue’s theme of ignition, combining both the wordplay and the overall meaning.

Shady extremists give a couple of grand to middlemen - an attempt to achieve balance? Crossword Clue 8 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Shady extremists give a couple of grand to middlemen - an attempt to achieve balance? is SYMMETRY. This clue uses a combination of wordplay involving abbreviations and a definition. "Shady extremists" suggests taking the outer letters (extremists) of the word "shady," which are "S" and "Y." "Give a couple of grand" indicates two "M"s (as "M" is the abbreviation for a thousand in Roman numerals).

"To middlemen" suggests something central, and the definition "an attempt to achieve balance" points to "SYMMETRY," a concept of balanced proportions. When the components are put together—S, Y, M, M, and TRY—you get "SYMMETRY," perfectly matching the idea of balance and the clue’s wordplay elements.

Vulgar rot even reveals how they kill victim Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Vulgar rot even reveals how they kill victim is GARROTE. This clue uses anagram wordplay and a definition. "Vulgar rot even" is a hint that the letters of the phrase can be rearranged to form a different word. The definition "how they kill victim" refers to a method of strangulation.

By anagramming the letters in "Vulgar rot even," you get "GARROTE," which is a term for a device or method used to strangle someone. The clue cleverly combines the anagram with the specific meaning related to a killing method.

Assign job to Pole to create useful strip with shortcuts to favourite apps Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Assign job to Pole to create useful strip with shortcuts to favourite apps is TASK BAR. This clue uses a straightforward definition with a hint of wordplay. "Assign job" suggests giving someone a task, leading to "TASK."

"Pole" indicates a reference to "BAR," as in a geographical or structural feature. "To create useful strip with shortcuts to favourite apps" defines a "TASK BAR," which is a part of a computer interface where shortcuts to applications are displayed. The answer "TASK BAR" fits both the literal and descriptive parts of the clue, relating to a practical component in computing.

Regret American using informal address? Crossword Clue 6 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Regret American using informal address? is MISSUS. This clue involves a play on words and abbreviation. "Regret" can mean "MISS," as in to regret not doing something. "American" is abbreviated as "US."

The phrase "using informal address" refers to a term of address for a married woman or housewife, which is "MISSUS." Combining these elements—"MISS" and "US"—gives "MISSUS," fitting both the idea of regret and the informal term used to address a woman.

Maybe eejit in California disheartened daughter-in-law, sending up drone Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Maybe eejit in California disheartened daughter-in-law, sending up drone is DWEEB.

This clue combines wordplay with a definition. "Maybe eejit" suggests a slang term for a foolish person, which is "DWEEB." The phrase "in California disheartened daughter-in-law" provides a clue where "disheartened" means removing the inner letters of "daughter-in-law" to focus on key letters.

"Sending up drone" indicates an informal or slang term, which "DWEEB" fits as it describes a geek or nerd, often used humorously. The answer "DWEEB" matches the overall context and definition of a foolish or inept person.

Thursday, August 22, 2024 Irish Times Crosaire Crossword Puzzle Answers

Across

1 Acquired old rubbish that will probably not be used: GO TO WASTE
6 Margaret hasn't finished taking a stand?: DAIS
10 Administrative Officer catches delegate going over work?: OPERA
11 Rebuff cat messing around in area where food is served: BUFFET CAR
12 Welcome lawyer closing case involving prisoner: HOSTAGE
13 Blow top in anger, when nothing is sent across to island off the north coast: RATHLIN
14 Managed to collect drug when they moved along more hurriedly: PICKED UP SPEED
17 They'll ghost us capriciously, in an inconsiderate way: THOUGHTLESSLY
21 In hospital, brief warning is given as they use drug administering device: INHALER
22 Jump abruptly, as half of the models come back to get celebrity?: STARDOM
24 Trouble when unruly gang sent back head boy with item bought in joke shop: STINK BOMB
25 Widen these pieces for sequence shown between programmes: IDENT
26 Bruised rib removed mistakenly, so they claimed?: SUED
27 Make a mistake with child who's been trusted to fetch something: ERRAND BOY

Down

1 Cape created, which is a great leap by sweetheart: GOOD HOPE
2 Leading theologist brought up prophet referring to important organisms": TREES
3 Asks person to describe themselves, receiving incredulous expression?: WHAT ARE YOU LIKE
4 Silly, muscle-bound clod deleted list of further options: SUBMENU
5 Occasionally serf is in favour of eviscerating teammates and their endeavours: EFFORTS
7 Praise current cook, oddly using all but the first of the knives?: ACCOLADES
8 Right at home, interrupting woman in holy place?: SHRINE
9 Hit production depicts young poets and modern jazz enthusiasts of the 1950s: BEAT GENERATION
15 Start to burn hideous cart chief used: CATCH FIRE
16 Shady extremists give a couple of grand to middlemen - an attempt to achieve balance?: SYMMETRY
18 Vulgar rot even reveals how they kill victim: GARROTE
19 Assign job to Pole to create useful strip with shortcuts to favourite apps: TASK BAR
20 Regret American using informal address?: MISSUS
23 Maybe eejit in California disheartened daughter-in-law, sending up drone: DWEEB