The Irish Independent Cryptic August 24, 2024 Crossword Clues and Answers Updated

Aggressive action taken by the insulted Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is OFFENCE. The crossword clue "Aggressive action taken by the insulted" is answered with "OFFENCE." In this context, "offence" refers to the reaction or response of someone who feels insulted or wronged. When a person takes offense, they may respond with aggressive or defensive actions, either verbally or physically, as a way of asserting themselves or addressing the perceived slight.

In crossword puzzles, "offence" fits the clue because it captures the emotional and behavioral response to being insulted. The term implies not just the feeling of being hurt or insulted, but also the active response that often follows, which can be confrontational.

Use it to make a set of furniture Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is SUITE. The crossword clue "Use it to make a set of furniture" is answered with "SUITE." A "suite" refers to a set or collection of matching furniture pieces designed to be used together in a specific room, such as a living room suite or a bedroom suite. These coordinated sets typically include items like sofas, chairs, tables, and beds, all designed to complement each other in style and function.

In crossword puzzles, "suite" fits the clue because it directly describes a complete set of furniture intended to furnish a room. The term emphasizes the idea of harmony and coordination in interior design, where matching pieces are chosen to create a cohesive look. By using "suite," the puzzle taps into concepts of home décor and furnishing, illustrating how crosswords can incorporate everyday household terms and ideas into their clues.

An ear, perhaps, for music? Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ORGAN. The crossword clue "An ear, perhaps, for music?" is answered with "ORGAN." The word "organ" has a double meaning that makes it a clever response to this clue. First, "organ" refers to a part of the body, such as the ear, which is crucial for hearing and perceiving music. Second, "organ" is also a musical instrument, known for its use in various types of music, particularly in churches and classical settings.

In crossword puzzles, "organ" fits the clue perfectly by playing on these two meanings. The clue hints at something related to music, and the answer captures both the biological and musical aspects of the word.

Provided food for a domestic pet and wild deer Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is CATERED. The crossword clue "Provided food for a domestic pet and wild deer" is answered with "CATERED." The word "catered" typically means to provide food or services, often in a professional or organized manner.

In crossword puzzles, "catered" fits the clue by extending its usual meaning to a more playful scenario. The clue suggests an action that involves serving or supplying food, and "catered" captures this idea with a touch of whimsy. This reflects how crosswords often use familiar words in unexpected or imaginative ways, making the solving experience more engaging by encouraging solvers to think outside the box.

They have a strong scent Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is BLOODHOUNDS. The crossword clue "They have a strong scent" is answered with "BLOODHOUNDS." Bloodhounds are a breed of dog known for their exceptional sense of smell, which is one of the strongest in the animal kingdom. These dogs are often used in search and rescue missions, as well as in tracking down criminals, because they can follow a scent trail for miles, even days after it was left.

In crossword puzzles, "bloodhounds" fits the clue by focusing on the idea of a "strong scent." While the clue could imply that something emits a strong smell, it cleverly refers to the bloodhounds' ability to detect scents with incredible accuracy.

More than mere business acquaintances Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is FIRM FRIENDS. The crossword clue "More than mere business acquaintances" is answered with "FIRM FRIENDS." This phrase refers to relationships that go beyond simple professional or business interactions. While business acquaintances may have a professional connection, "firm friends" implies a deeper, more personal bond, characterized by mutual trust, support, and a strong friendship.

In crossword puzzles, "firm friends" fits the clue by highlighting the contrast between superficial business relationships and close, personal friendships. The term "firm" in this context emphasizes the strength and solidity of the friendship, suggesting a connection that is reliable and enduring.

Red vehicle at one of the pits Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is CARMINE. The crossword clue "Red vehicle at one of the pits" is answered with "CARMINE." This clue uses a play on words where "carmine" refers to a deep red color, and it cleverly alludes to a "red vehicle." The term "carmine" itself is derived from a pigment known for its rich red hue, which fits the description of a red vehicle.

The phrase "at one of the pits" adds a layer of wordplay, hinting at a context where a red color might be highlighted, such as in racing pits or other settings. However, the primary connection here is the use of "carmine" to denote the color red, making it a fitting answer that incorporates both a literal and figurative understanding of the clue.

How one would feel, left in the dark? Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is GROPE. The crossword clue "How one would feel, left in the dark?" is answered with "GROPE." This answer plays on the literal and figurative meanings of being left in the dark. Literally, when someone is left in darkness, they might "grope" or feel around blindly for something because they can't see.

In crossword puzzles, "grope" fits the clue by capturing the experience of being disoriented and struggling to find one's way or understanding, whether physically in darkness or figuratively in ignorance.

I come in to ward off an evil spirit Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is FIEND. The crossword clue "I come in to ward off an evil spirit" is answered with "FIEND." This answer uses a play on words involving the term "fiend," which traditionally means an evil spirit or demon.

In crossword puzzles, "fiend" fits the clue by capturing the concept of an evil presence that one would want to avoid or defend against. The wordplay in the clue highlights the dual meaning of "fiend" as both a term for an evil entity and an ironic hint at what one would want to keep away.

Unfit to be celebrated Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is NOTABLE. The crossword clue "Unfit to be celebrated" is answered with "NOTABLE." This answer uses wordplay involving the term "notable," which typically means deserving of attention or celebration.

In crossword puzzles, "notable" fits the clue through its ironic twist. The term is usually associated with being noteworthy or worthy of acknowledgment, but the clue redefines it as being "unfit to be celebrated," playing on the contrast between its usual meaning and the context provided.

Blazing with a loud anger Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is AFIRE. The crossword clue "Blazing with a loud anger" is answered with "AFIRE." The term "afire" traditionally means to be on fire or burning brightly. In the context of the clue, it figuratively describes someone who is experiencing intense, fiery anger. The word "afire" effectively captures the vivid and explosive nature of such an emotion, using the imagery of flames to convey the intensity of the feeling.

In crossword puzzles, "afire" fits the clue by combining the literal sense of burning with the metaphorical expression of anger. The clue plays on the dual meaning of "afire" to evoke a powerful image of someone who is not just angry, but blazing with a fervent and overwhelming emotion.

Happen to exist before autumn comes Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is BEFALL. The crossword clue "Happen to exist before autumn comes" is answered with "BEFALL." The word "befall" means to happen or occur, typically referring to events or situations that come about. The clue cleverly plays with the idea of "befall" as something that happens or occurs before a specific time, in this case, "before autumn comes."

In crossword puzzles, "befall" fits the clue by capturing the notion of an event or condition that takes place before a certain point in time. The phrase "before autumn comes" is used metaphorically to suggest the occurrence of something in advance of a particular season or event.

Wild-cat exploit Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ACT. The crossword clue "Wild-cat exploit" is answered with "ACT." This clue employs a clever play on words where "wild-cat" and "exploit" are interpreted in a non-literal sense. The term "wild-cat" can refer to a type of daring or risky endeavor, and an "exploit" is a notable or daring deed.

In crossword puzzles, "act" fits the clue by succinctly capturing the concept of undertaking a bold or adventurous deed. The clue's wordplay highlights how "act" can represent an exploit or daring move, fitting the notion of a wild or audacious endeavor.

Foreign office desk? Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is BUREAU. The crossword clue "Foreign office desk?" is answered with "BUREAU." This answer cleverly plays on the dual meanings of the word "bureau." In one sense, a "bureau" is a type of desk or piece of furniture with drawers used for writing or storing documents.

In crossword puzzles, "bureau" fits the clue by linking both meanings of the term. The clue hints at a "foreign office," which can be interpreted as a government agency dealing with international relations, while "desk" refers to a piece of furniture.

Turns up and listens Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ATTENDS. The crossword clue "Turns up and listens" is answered with "ATTENDS." This answer cleverly integrates the two actions described in the clue. The phrase "turns up" can imply showing up or arriving at a place, while "listens" means to pay attention or be present for something.

In crossword puzzles, "attends" fits the clue by effectively combining these actions into one word. The clue uses wordplay to connect the idea of attending an event with both the physical presence ("turns up") and the act of listening or paying attention.

Sack the one who tells Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is CASHIER. The crossword clue "Sack the one who tells" is answered with "CASHIER." This answer plays on the dual meanings of the word "cashier." In one sense, a cashier is someone who handles money and transactions in a store or other business, effectively "telling" or processing financial information.

In crossword puzzles, "cashier" fits the clue by combining these meanings. The term "cashier" not only refers to a role where someone handles transactions (and thus "tells" or processes financial data) but also humorously fits the notion of someone who might be "sacked" or fired. This demonstrates how crosswords often use puns and multiple meanings to craft clues that are both challenging and entertaining.

A highly vocal female Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is SOPRANO. The crossword clue "A highly vocal female" is answered with "SOPRANO." This answer refers to a specific type of vocal range and role in music. A soprano is the highest female singing voice in classical music, known for its powerful and prominent vocal quality.

In crossword puzzles, "soprano" fits the clue through its dual implication of both being a highly vocal role and being a female singer. The word "soprano" not only denotes a specific vocal range but also suggests a female singer with a significant and impactful presence in musical settings.

Great, but it went down disastrously Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is TITANIC. The crossword clue "Great, but it went down disastrously" is answered with "TITANIC." This clue cleverly references the RMS Titanic, a ship that was considered great due to its size, luxury, and technological advancements. The Titanic's sinking is a historical event known for its tragic outcome, which fits the clue's mention of something that "went down disastrously."

In crossword puzzles, "Titanic" fits the clue by highlighting both the grand nature of the ship and its infamous fate. The term "Titanic" evokes the idea of greatness or enormity (derived from the Titans of Greek mythology) while also referring to the ship's disastrous sinking, making it a fitting answer.

Second importance Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is MOMENT. The crossword clue "Second importance" is answered with "MOMENT." This answer plays on the dual meanings of the word "moment." In one sense, a "moment" is a brief period of time, often measured in seconds. In another sense, it refers to a point of significant importance or influence, as in a crucial or pivotal moment.

In crossword puzzles, "moment" fits the clue by capturing the idea of something that is of "second importance" or secondary to a more significant event or situation. The word "moment" effectively combines the temporal aspect of being a short period with the notion of importance or impact.

Number of towns in South Africa Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is DURBAN. The crossword clue "Number of towns in South Africa" is answered with "DURBAN." This clue involves a bit of wordplay and geographical knowledge. Durban is a major city in South Africa, but it is not a numerical value. The clue seems to play on the idea that "number" could refer to a notable place rather than a literal count of towns.

In crossword puzzles, "Durban" fits the clue through its association with South Africa as a prominent location rather than providing an actual numerical count. The clue might be designed to mislead solvers into thinking about numerical values or quantities, while the answer points to a significant South African city instead.

Upset to make light of Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is SPILL. The crossword clue "Upset to make light of" is answered with "SPILL." This answer uses wordplay related to the idea of "spilling" something, which can mean to accidentally or intentionally let something out, often resulting in making a situation less serious or “light.” The phrase "make light of" means to treat something as less important or serious, which aligns with the idea of "spilling" as letting something out casually.

In crossword puzzles, "spill" fits the clue by combining the concept of "upset" with the action of making light of a situation. When you "spill" a secret or information, it can be seen as casually revealing something that might have been kept confidential, thereby downplaying its importance.

Stern fellow in a row Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is COX. This clue uses wordplay related to both the literal and figurative meanings of "stern." In the context of rowing, a "cox" (short for coxswain) is the person who sits at the stern (back) of the boat and directs the rowers.

In crossword puzzles, "cox" fits the clue by combining these elements into one term. The clue plays on the double meaning of "stern" to indicate both the back of the boat and the role of the coxswain who manages the rowing crew from that position.

Saturday, August 24, 2024 The Irish Independent Cryptic Crossword Puzzle Answers

Across

6 Aggressive action taken by the insulted: OFFENCE

7 Use it to make a set of furniture: SUITE

9 An ear, perhaps, for music?: ORGAN

10 Provided food for a domestic pet and wild deer: CATERED

12 They have a strong scent: BLOODHOUNDS

14 More than mere business acquaintances: FIRM FRIENDS

18 Red vehicle at one of the pits: CARMINE

19 How one would feel, left in the dark?: GROPE

21 I come in to ward off an evil spirit: FIEND

22 Unfit to be celebrated: NOTABLE

DOWN

1 Blazing with a loud anger: AFIRE

2 Happen to exist before autumn comes: BEFALL

3 Wild-cat exploit: ACT

4 Foreign office desk?: BUREAU

5 Turns up and listens: ATTENDS

8 Sack the one who tells: CASHIER

11 A highly vocal female: SOPRANO

13 Great, but it went down disastrously: TITANIC

15 Second importance: MOMENT

16 Number of towns in South Africa: DURBAN

17 Upset to make light of: SPILL

20 Stern fellow in a row: COX