Start badly, but get a jewel, that's the plan (9) The Irish Independent Cryptic crossword clue May 20,2024

The Irish Independent Cryptic crossword in the Irish Independent newspaper is tricky because its clues have two parts: one gives the answer's meaning (definition), and the other hints at how to find the answer (wordplay). You might need to think creatively, using wordplay like letter changes, similar-sounding words, hidden words, or word combinations. It's a fun way to exercise your brain and improve problem-solving skills!

Always breaking down the clue will help you to reach the answer soon, Let’s break the clue

Start badly - "Start badly" suggests that we begin with something negative.

but get a jewel - indicates that something valuable or positive is obtained.

that's the plan - implies that there's a strategy or intention behind the actions.

By now you would have come to an assumption that the clue is all about a strategy or plan that involves starting poorly but ultimately achieving a valuable outcome.

HINTS

I will help you out with additional clues,

• The answer starts with the letter S and ends with the letter M.
• It is a 9-letter answer.
• It is a plan or a scheme.
• The synonym of the word is Trick.
• The Best example of the word is winning a chess game.

ANSWER

The right answer for the clue Start badly, but get a jewel, that's the plan (9) is STRATAGEM.

ANSWER EXPLANATION

• The word "STRATAGEM" fits the clue because it starts with "STRAT," which could be interpreted as starting badly or with a struggle.
• The remainder of the word, "AGEM," could be seen as "a gem" or "jewel," representing the valuable part gained.
• The overall idea is that a stratagem involves starting with a disadvantage but ultimately gaining something valuable through a planned approach.