Irish Times Crosaire Crossword Clues and Answers August 30, 2024

Began using complicated thread twist Crossword Clue: The Answer is STARTED WITH

The clue "Began using complicated thread twist" refers to starting or initiating something, with a hint that the phrase may involve an anagram or twist of words related to "thread." The answer "STARTED WITH" fits this description through its interpretation of the phrase. When we say something "started with" something else, it means that was the initial point or basis from which it originated.

In this context, "started with" captures the essence of "began" by indicating the initial stage or origin of an action or process. The phrase "using complicated thread twist" hints at the involvement of a complex arrangement of words or ideas, which aligns with the idea of something beginning from a particular point.

Dogs appear to have eaten promissory note - how strange Crossword Clue: The Answer is CURIOUS

The clue "Dogs appear to have eaten promissory note - how strange" hints at a situation that is unusual or perplexing. The answer "CURIOUS" fits this description, as it captures the essence of something being odd or intriguing. The phrase "how strange" directly suggests a sense of curiosity or something that evokes a question or wonder.

In this context, "curious" aligns with the idea of strangeness or something that prompts inquiry. The clue cleverly plays with the idea of dogs and a promissory note, leading to the adjective "curious" which describes something that arouses interest or puzzlement.

Sensible man rushes back to conceal something that could identify family Crossword Clue: The Answer is SURNAME

The clue "Sensible man rushes back to conceal something that could identify family" involves a bit of wordplay and anagram. The answer "SURNAME" fits the description as it refers to a family name, which identifies a family or lineage. To solve the clue, we need to focus on the hint that something is concealed and involves "rushes back."

Breaking down the clue, "Sensible man rushes back" suggests reversing or scrambling letters related to "sensible man." The phrase "conceal something that could identify family" directly points to "surname," which is a term used to denote a family name.

Head honcho should get the best fruit Crossword Clue: The Answer is TOP BANANA

The clue "Head honcho should get the best fruit" uses wordplay to point to the answer "TOP BANANA." The term "head honcho" colloquially means the leader or most important person in a group, and in this case, it translates to "top," indicating the highest position. The phrase "best fruit" refers to the banana, which is commonly considered a top fruit in terms of popularity and quality.

In this context, "TOP BANANA" cleverly combines these elements. The expression "top banana" is a colloquialism for someone who is the most important or influential in a situation, paralleling the idea of a "head honcho."

Endeavour to meet religious type for clandestine meeting Crossword Clue: The Answer is TRYST

The clue "Endeavour to meet religious type for clandestine meeting" uses wordplay to lead to the answer "TRYST." The term "tryst" refers to a secret or clandestine meeting, often between lovers, fitting the description of a covert encounter.

Breaking down the clue, the word "tryst" itself can be seen as a hidden or secret meeting, aligning with the idea of a clandestine gathering. The phrase "endeavour to meet religious type" is a bit of wordplay, hinting at a covert arrangement rather than a straightforward interpretation.

Pull on cyan kaftan, discreetly Crossword Clue: The Answer is YANK

The clue "Pull on cyan kaftan, discreetly" uses wordplay to lead to the answer "YANK." The term "yank" means to pull something abruptly, which fits the context of the clue where "pull" is a direct synonym. The wordplay in the clue involves an anagram or hidden word puzzle.

In this context, "cyan kaftan" is a subtle hint toward the answer. By rearranging the letters in "cyan kaftan" or focusing on the word "pull," you get "yank," which directly means to pull something suddenly.

Grab something simple and relax Crossword Clue: The Answer is TAKE IT EASY

The clue "Grab something simple and relax" cleverly leads to the answer "TAKE IT EASY." The phrase "take it easy" means to relax or not stress out, which aligns perfectly with the clue's directive to "relax." The word "grab" in this context can be interpreted as taking hold of or seizing an idea, which fits with the notion of adopting a more relaxed attitude.

In this context, "take it easy" serves as a fitting answer because it encapsulates both the concept of relaxing and the idea of handling something simply or without much stress. The phrase combines the elements of grabbing (or adopting) a simple approach and the act of relaxing, making it a comprehensive answer to the clue.

Plan to trek around to get container for fuel Crossword Clue: The Answer is PETROL TANK

The clue "Plan to trek around to get container for fuel" involves wordplay and hints towards the answer "PETROL TANK." To solve the clue, we need to decode how the phrase "plan to trek around" relates to the concept of a container for fuel. Here, "plan" can be synonymous with "scheme" or "tank," and "trek around" suggests rearranging or surrounding letters.

In this context, "PETROL TANK" fits the clue because it describes a container used for storing fuel, which aligns with the idea of needing a "container for fuel." The wordplay involves the rearrangement or inclusion of letters ("trek around") to fit the context of the clue.

Doctor gets parent drug Crossword Clue: The Answer is MDMA

The clue "Doctor gets parent drug" involves a bit of wordplay where "Doctor" hints at an abbreviation or initials, and "parent drug" refers to a specific substance. The answer "MDMA" fits the clue as it is a well-known drug, commonly referred to as ecstasy.

Breaking down the clue, "Doctor" typically abbreviates to "MD" (Doctor of Medicine), and "gets parent drug" indicates the drug's full name. MDMA stands for 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine, where "MD" refers to the initials of "Doctor" and "MA" is part of the drug's name.

Observe they've caught discontented partner involved in romp Crossword Clue: The Answer is SPREE

The clue "Observe they've caught discontented partner involved in romp" uses wordplay to lead to the answer "SPREE." Here, "spree" refers to a lively or carefree outing, often involving fun or revelry, which fits the description of a "romp."

Breaking down the clue, "Observe" suggests the answer involves watching or noticing something. The phrase "they've caught discontented partner" plays with the idea of capturing or involving a partner, and the word "spree" can be derived from rearranging or interpreting parts of the clue.

Cheat kind-hearted adversary Crossword Clue: The Answer is CONTENDER

The clue "Cheat kind-hearted adversary" leads to the answer "CONTENDER" through wordplay and a bit of lateral thinking. Here, "CONTENDER" refers to someone who competes or challenges in a contest, which aligns with the idea of an "adversary" or opponent.

To break it down, "cheat" might be a misdirect, hinting at a challenge or competition rather than literal dishonesty. The term "kind-hearted" suggests someone with a positive or competitive spirit, rather than malicious intent.

Regularly sell out in advance of John B Keane play - it's hard to catch Crossword Clue: The Answer is ELUSIVE

The clue "Regularly sell out in advance of John B Keane play - it's hard to catch" involves a combination of wordplay and reference to the answer "ELUSIVE." The term "elusive" describes something that is difficult to catch or grasp, fitting the description of being hard to catch.

Breaking down the clue, "Regularly sell out" suggests taking regular letters from the phrase "sell out," giving us the letters "S" and "E." The phrase "in advance of John B Keane play" refers to a play by John B. Keane, which is less direct but may hint at a broader context. Combining these elements, the answer "ELUSIVE" captures the idea of something hard to pin down or capture, fitting the description of the term "hard to catch" in the clue.

Thieves indicated retro utensil was given to former British monarch by son Crossword Clue: The Answer is LOOTERS

The clue "Thieves indicated retro utensil was given to former British monarch by son" leads to the answer "LOOTERS" through a blend of wordplay and cryptic hinting. The term "loot" refers to stolen goods, and "loot" is also synonymous with the activity of stealing, thus fitting the idea of "thieves." The suffix "-ers" transforms "loot" into "looters," which describes thieves in action.

To break down the clue further, "retro utensil" refers to an old or vintage tool, in this case, "LOOT" can be interpreted as something taken or stolen, fitting the idea of a retro utensil (something old or out of date). The phrase "given to former British monarch by son" is more of a cryptic hint to reinforce the idea of theft rather than a direct definition.

I hope masons can depict some form of human being Crossword Clue: The Answer is HOMO SAPIENS

The clue "I hope masons can depict some form of human being" leads to the answer "HOMO SAPIENS" through a combination of wordplay and cryptic definition. "HOMO SAPIENS" is the scientific name for the human species, fitting the description of "some form of human being."

To decipher the clue, we focus on the phrase "I hope masons can depict." This suggests looking for a term related to the depiction or description of a human being. The word "mason" hints at "stone" or "building," but in this context, it serves as a red herring to lead us towards a broader understanding.

Grating characters meeting harsh personnel department admitted they're barely managing to get by Crossword Clue: The Answer

is SCRAPING THROUGH

The clue "Grating characters meeting harsh personnel department admitted they're barely managing to get by" leads to the answer "SCRAPING THROUGH." This phrase means to barely manage or get by, which fits the description of struggling to cope or achieve something with difficulty.

Breaking down the clue, "Grating characters" refers to something that is annoying or irritating, which hints at a sense of difficulty or effort. The phrase "meeting harsh personnel department" can be interpreted as a reference to dealing with a challenging situation, with "personnel department" being a subtle nod to the initials "P" and "D" which are not directly used in the solution but contribute to the overall complexity.

Zealots rehash centrists' greeting Crossword Clue: The Answer is ALOHA

The clue "Zealots rehash centrists' greeting" leads to the answer "ALOHA" through a play on words and anagram. The term "ALOHA" is a greeting used in Hawaii, fitting the description of a "greeting."

To break down the clue, "zealots" and "rehash" suggest an anagram or rearrangement of letters. The word "centrists" provides the letters to be rearranged. When you anagram the letters in "zealots," you find that they can be rearranged to spell "ALOHA."

Drunkard went over to thank father for Mexican food Crossword Clue: The Answer is TOSTADA

The clue "Drunkard went over to thank father for Mexican food" leads to the answer "TOSTADA" through a combination of wordplay and cryptic hinting. A "tostada" is a type of Mexican food, fitting the definition part of the clue.

To solve the clue, consider the phrase "Drunkard went over to thank father." Here, "drunkard" can be interpreted as someone who is "tossed" or "toasted," which can lead us to "TOAST." The phrase "went over" suggests a reversal or a play on the word, and "thank father" implies using a term related to gratitude or acknowledgment.

Depart to cross several large expanses of water, though it could strain the body Crossword Clue: The Answer is DISEASE

The clue "Depart to cross several large expanses of water, though it could strain the body" leads to the answer "DISEASE" through a mix of wordplay and definition. The term "disease" describes a condition that can strain the body, aligning with the clue's description of something that could cause physical stress or strain.

To break down the clue, "Depart" suggests the word "DIE" (as in to depart from life), and "to cross several large expanses of water" can be cryptic for something that can be interpreted in different ways. In this case, "several large expanses of water" might not be a literal reference but rather a metaphorical one.

Annoy pair holding frame of Renoir at gallery Crossword Clue: The Answer is IRRITATE

The clue "Annoy pair holding frame of Renoir at gallery" leads to the answer "IRRITATE" through a combination of wordplay and definition. The term "irritate" means to annoy, fitting the definition part of the clue.

Breaking down the clue, "pair holding frame of Renoir" suggests a wordplay element. The "frame of Renoir" refers to the first and last letters of "Renoir," which are "R" and "R." The word "pair" indicates that these letters are held or surrounded by something.

Awkward manner while describing feeling arising from swollen extremities, perhaps? Crossword Clue: The Answer is HEAVY

HANDEDNESS

The clue "Awkward manner while describing feeling arising from swollen extremities, perhaps?" leads to the answer "HEAVY-HANDEDNESS." This term means an awkward or clumsy manner, fitting the definition part of the clue.

To break down the clue, "awkward manner" directly describes the answer "HEAVY-HANDEDNESS," which refers to a clumsy or overly forceful approach. The phrase "describing feeling arising from swollen extremities, perhaps" provides a hint. If someone has swollen hands or limbs, they might experience a "heavy" feeling due to the swelling.

Distractedly omits riddle, being terribly absent-minded Crossword Clue: The Answer is SCATTY

The clue "Distractedly omits riddle, being terribly absent-minded" leads to the answer "SCATTY." The term "scatty" means being absent-minded or distracted, which fits the description of someone who is not focused.

Breaking down the clue, the word "distractedly" hints at the state of being absent-minded, which is synonymous with "scatty." The phrase "omits riddle" suggests that the solution involves removing or rearranging letters from a given word. In this case, "riddle" doesn't need to be used directly but indicates that the wordplay involves a state of distraction or scatterbrained behavior.

Fellow taking lady's coat in a tender manner Crossword Clue: The Answer is GENTLY

The clue "Fellow taking lady's coat in a tender manner" leads to the answer "GENTLY." The word "gently" describes doing something in a tender or soft manner, which aligns perfectly with the description given in the clue.

To break down the clue, "Fellow" often refers to a "gent" (a shortened form of gentleman). The phrase "taking lady's coat" suggests incorporating or surrounding a word related to "coat" or "lady" within the answer. In this case, "GENT" (fellow) combined with the idea of a tender or gentle approach results in the word "GENTLY," which means to do something in a tender manner.

In panto, Ken is mocking minimal effort made to be inclusive Crossword Clue: The Answer is TOKENISM

The clue "In panto, Ken is mocking minimal effort made to be inclusive" leads to the answer "TOKENISM." The term "tokenism" refers to a superficial or minimal effort to be inclusive or representative, which fits the description given in the clue.

To break down the clue, "In panto" suggests that the answer might involve rearranging or using elements related to "panto," which is short for pantomime. The phrase "Ken is mocking" indicates that the name "Ken" is involved in some form of wordplay. By combining these elements, "TOKENISM" emerges as the answer.

Initially plans to use beasts of burden for mountain paths Crossword Clue: The Answer is PASSES

The clue "Initially plans to use beasts of burden for mountain paths" leads to the answer "PASSES." The word "passes" refers to routes or paths through mountainous terrain, aligning with the definition given in the clue.

Breaking down the clue, "Initially plans to use beasts of burden" indicates that the initial letters of each of these words ("Plans," "To," "Use," and "Beasts") are used to form the answer. The first letters of these words spell out "P," "T," "U," and "B," but the key part is understanding that "passes" are the paths used for crossing mountains, which fits the definition of mountain paths.

They permit entry to alien overwhelmed by biting arachnids Crossword Clue: The Answer is TICKETS

The clue "They permit entry to alien overwhelmed by biting arachnids" leads to the answer "TICKETS." The term "tickets" refers to permits or passes that allow entry, which fits the description of something that grants access.

To break down the clue, "They permit entry" is a straightforward definition of "tickets," as tickets are used to gain entry to events or locations. The phrase "alien overwhelmed by biting arachnids" provides a wordplay hint. Here, "alien" can be represented by the letter "ET," and "biting arachnids" refer to "ticks." When "ET" (alien) is placed inside "TICKS" (biting arachnids), it forms the word "TICKETS."

Friday, August 30, 2024 Irish Times Crosaire Crossword Puzzle Answers

ACROSS

1 Began using complicated thread twist: STARTED WITH

9 Dogs appear to have eaten promissory note - how strange: CURIOUS

10 Sensible man rushes back to conceal something that could identify family: SURNAME

11 Head honcho should get the best fruit: TOP BANANA

12 Endeavour to meet religious type for clandestine meeting: TRYST

13 Pull on cyan kaftan, discreetly: YANK

14 Grab something simple and relax: TAKE IT EASY

16 Plan to trek around to get container for fuel: PETROL TANK

19 Doctor gets parent drug: M D M A

21 Observe they've caught discontented partner involved in romp: SPREE

22 Cheat kind-hearted adversary: CONTENDER

24 Regularly sell out in advance of John B Keane play - it's hard to catch: ELUSIVE

25 Thieves indicated retro utensil was given to former British monarch by son: LOOTERS

26 I hope masons can depict some form of human being: HOMO SAPIENS

DOWN

1 Grating characters meeting harsh personnel department admitted they're barely managing to get by: SCRAPING THROUGH

2 Zealots rehash centrists' greeting: ALOHA

3 Drunkard went over to thank father for Mexican food: TOSTADA

4 Depart to cross several large expanses of water, though it could strain the body: DISEASE

5 Annoy pair holding frame of Renoir at gallery: IRRITATE

6 Awkward manner while describing feeling arising from swollen extremities, perhaps?: HEAVY-HANDEDNESS

7 Distractedly omits riddle, being terribly absent-minded: SCATTY

8 Fellow taking lady's coat in a tender manner: GENTLY

15 In panto, Ken is mocking minimal effort made to be inclusive: TOKENISM

16 Initially plans to use beasts of burden for mountain paths: PASSES

17 They permit entry to alien overwhelmed by biting arachnids: TICKETS

18 Designed to prevent accidents by obstructing contrary pupils' nonsense: NONSLIP

20 Still providing fantastic treats: AT REST

23 Express feelings when book is brought up by sweetheart: EMOTE