The Irish Independent Cryptic Crossword August 30, 2024 Puzzle Answers
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Updated Aug 30, 2024
Selected For The Team, But Beaten : CAPPED
"Selected For The Team, But Beaten" is "CAPPED." In sports terminology, being "capped" means being selected to play for a national team and earning a cap, which is an official recognition of participation in an international match. The clue plays on the dual meaning of "capped":
while it indicates selection and official recognition, it also subtly implies that despite being selected, the team might have been beaten in the game. Thus, "CAPPED" fits the clue as it encompasses both the honor of selection and the possibility of defeat.
They Get A Corresponding Licking : STAMPS
"They Get A Corresponding Licking" is "STAMPS." In this context, "licking" refers to the action of moistening the adhesive side of a postage stamp before applying it to mail. The clue uses "corresponding" to hint at the function of stamps in correspondence, as they are essential for sending letters and packages.
The phrase "get a corresponding licking" cleverly alludes to the process of preparing stamps for mailing. Thus, "STAMPS" fits the clue perfectly, encapsulating both the physical action and the role stamps play in correspondence.
Notes From It Could Shock, Of Course : ELECTRICORGAN
"Notes From It Could Shock, Of Course" is "ELECTRICORGAN." This clue plays on the dual meanings of "notes" and "shock." "Notes" refers to the musical notes played on an instrument, and "shock" relates to electricity. An "electric organ" is a musical instrument that produces sound electronically, and it can indeed "shock" in a figurative sense due to its electrical components.
The term "electric organ" fits the description perfectly, as it combines the idea of musical notes with the electrical aspect that can cause a shock.
Make Ready By Peeling Beforehand? : PREPARE
"Make Ready By Peeling Beforehand?" is "PREPARE." The clue uses wordplay involving the act of "peeling" and the concept of "making ready." To "prepare" something means to get it ready for use or action. The word "prepare" can be associated with the process of peeling as part of preparing ingredients, such as fruits or vegetables, before cooking or serving.
Thus, "PREPARE" fits the clue perfectly by linking the idea of making ready with the specific task of peeling beforehand.
The Cards I Give Out Couldn't Be Better? : IDEAL
"The Cards I Give Out Couldn't Be Better?" is "IDEAL." The clue uses a play on words with the phrase "cards I give out" to imply the quality or suitability of something. If the cards you give out are described as "ideal," it means they are perfect or couldn't be better.
The word "ideal" captures the sense of being the best possible option or perfectly suited to a purpose. Thus, "IDEAL" is the fitting answer, reflecting the idea that the cards are of the highest quality or perfectly appropriate.
Wireless, Yet Exotic, 'Air-do? : RADIO
"Wireless, Yet Exotic, 'air-do?" is "RADIO." The term "radio" refers to a wireless communication system that transmits and receives signals through the air, fitting the "wireless" aspect of the clue. The wordplay in "'air-do" cleverly hints at how radio waves travel through the air.
Additionally, "radio" can be considered "exotic" in the sense of its technological and broadcast capabilities, making it an intriguing medium. Thus, "RADIO" aptly fits the description, combining both the wireless and exotic elements in the clue.
Art Is On The Move : ASTIR
"Art Is On The Move" is "ASTIR." The word "astir" means to be moving or in motion, and it can also imply being active or in a state of excitement. The clue uses the phrase "Art Is" to suggest that the word "astir" is an anagram of "art is," which fits the definition of being on the move.
Therefore, "ASTIR" captures both the idea of movement and the rearrangement of the letters in the phrase "Art Is," making it the appropriate answer for the clue.
Pale Like A Bird : ASHEN
"Pale Like A Bird" is "ASHEN." The term "ashen" describes a pale or grayish color, reminiscent of the color of ashes. The clue uses the phrase "like a bird" to evoke the idea of something that can appear pale, much like how the color "ashen" can be associated with a bird that has lost its vibrant hue. Additionally, the word "ashen" fits the description of being pale, making it a suitable answer for the clue.
Thus, "ASHEN" effectively captures the concept of paleness related to the clue.
100 And 15 To Be Taught : CLASSES
"100 And 15 To Be Taught" is "CLASSES." The clue involves a bit of wordplay where "100" and "15" refer to Roman numerals. In Roman numerals, 100 is represented as "C" and 15 is represented as "XV." When combined, these letters form "CXV," which is not directly used but hints towards the concept of "classes."
In education, "classes" are sessions or groups where teaching occurs. Thus, "CLASSES" fits the clue as it encapsulates the idea of educational sessions or subjects to be taught.
So Got This Turn, Somehow, To Settle Matters? : SORTTHINGSOUT
"So Got This Turn, Somehow, To Settle Matters?" is "SORTTHINGSOUT." The clue involves an anagram indicated by "somehow" of the phrase "So Got This Turn." Rearranging these letters spells "SORT THINGS OUT," which means to resolve or settle matters.
The phrase fits perfectly with the idea of addressing or managing issues, which is the essence of settling matters. Therefore, "SORTTHINGSOUT" effectively captures the meaning and wordplay presented in the clue.
Sober, Excited, Yet Sad : STEADY
"Sober, Excited, Yet Sad" is "STEADY." The word "steady" can describe a calm and composed state, aligning with the idea of being "sober" and "sad," as it conveys a lack of emotional volatility. The wordplay in "excited" contrasts with "steady" by suggesting a state of being controlled or unchanging amidst various emotions.
Therefore, "STEADY" fits the clue as it encapsulates the notion of remaining stable or balanced despite different emotional states, including excitement and sadness.
100 Lights For Holding Things Together : CLAMPS
"100 Lights For Holding Things Together" is "CLAMPS." The clue involves wordplay where "100" in Roman numerals is represented as "C," and "lights" refers to the "L" sound. Combining these elements with the definition of "holding things together," we get "CLAMPS," which are tools used to secure or fasten objects.
The clue cleverly uses "100" and "lights" to hint at the word "CLAMPS," which fits the description of devices that keep items tightly bound.
Shrinking Horror Develops Gradually : CREEPS
"Shrinking Horror Develops Gradually" is "CREEPS." The word "creeps" describes a gradual, often unsettling movement or sensation, fitting the idea of something that develops or changes slowly over time. In the context of "shrinking horror," the term "creeps" captures the essence of a fear or unease that intensifies gradually.
The clue cleverly uses "develops gradually" to hint at the slow, creeping nature of this sensation or horror, making "CREEPS" an apt answer for the description provided.
Make An Accusation; Would Rather Make An Assault : PREFERACHARGE
"Make An Accusation; Would Rather Make An Assault" is "PREFERACHARGE." The clue involves a play on words where "prefer a charge" refers to choosing to make a formal accusation or legal claim, which is synonymous with making an accusation. The phrase "would rather make an assault" contrasts with this by suggesting an alternative action.
The word "prefer" indicates a choice, and "a charge" relates to making an accusation. Combining these elements, "PREFERACHARGE" effectively captures the idea of preferring to make an accusation rather than another action, fitting the clue's description.
Addition That Would Be Unusual If It Were Ordinary : EXTRA
"Addition That Would Be Unusual If It Were Ordinary" is "EXTRA." The word "extra" refers to something additional or more than what is usual or necessary. The clue plays on the idea that if an addition were ordinary, it wouldn't be considered unusual. However, an "extra" is by definition something beyond the norm, thus making it unusual in its nature.
Therefore, "EXTRA" fits the description perfectly, as it represents an addition that stands out precisely because it deviates from the ordinary.
Hot Spots: The Theme's About Right : TROPICS
"Hot Spots: The Theme's About Right" is "TROPICS." The term "tropics" refers to the regions of the Earth near the equator, known for their consistently warm or hot climate, making them literal "hot spots." The clue's mention of "the theme's about right" suggests that the answer is related to the concept of heat or warmth.
"TROPICS" fits this description perfectly as it denotes areas characterized by high temperatures. Thus, "TROPICS" aligns with the clue by representing the geographic regions that are the epitome of hot spots.
The Elements In A Rage - Attractively? : MAGNETICSTORM
"The Elements In A Rage - Attractively?" is "MAGNETICSTORM." The clue involves wordplay where "elements" refers to the components of a word, and "a rage" is an anagram indicator. Rearranging the letters of "a rage" and adding them to "magnetic storm" gives us "MAGNETICSTORM," which describes a natural phenomenon known for its impressive and attractively dramatic effects on Earth's magnetic field.
The phrase "attractively" in the clue hints at the magnetic nature of the phenomenon, fitting the description perfectly. Thus, "MAGNETICSTORM" encapsulates the idea of an impressive, attractive natural event.
One On The Shelf, Perhaps : SINGLE
"One On The Shelf, Perhaps" is "SINGLE." The clue uses wordplay to hint at a meaning associated with being "on the shelf." The term "single" can describe an individual item or person, such as a book or an individual who might be alone or not yet committed in a relationship.
In this context, "single" fits as it refers to something that is one of a kind or alone, which aligns with the idea of being "on the shelf" and possibly not yet selected or used. Thus, "SINGLE" effectively captures the concept of an individual or solitary entity.
One Walking Without Hitch : HIKER
"One Walking Without Hitch" is "HIKER." The term "hiker" refers to a person who walks or treks, often in nature or on trails. The clue's use of "without hitch" implies that the walking is done smoothly or without problems. "Hiker" fits this description perfectly, as it denotes someone who engages in walking or hiking, typically enjoying the activity without significant issues or obstacles.
Thus, "HIKER" captures the essence of someone walking effortlessly or in a straightforward manner.
Set On Fire Through Dieting? : IGNITED
"Set On Fire Through Dieting?" is "IGNITED." The clue uses a play on words where "set on fire" literally means to ignite something. The phrase "through dieting" adds a layer of wordplay, suggesting a transformation or effect that comes from a specific process.
Here, "IGNITED" cleverly connects with the idea of something being "set on fire" and metaphorically, it implies that dieting can lead to a state of being "ignited" or energized, as if set ablaze. Thus, "IGNITED" fits the clue by blending the literal and metaphorical meanings of the phrase.
Fifty Idiots Of Girls : LASSES
"Fifty Idiots Of Girls" is "LASSES." In this clue, "fifty" refers to the Roman numeral "L," which stands for 50. The term "idiots" is used here to indicate a playful or informal term, while "of girls" points to the context related to females. Combining "L" with "asses," which can be a colloquial term for "fools" or "idiots," gives us "LASSES," which is a term for girls or young women.
Therefore, "LASSES" fits the clue perfectly by incorporating both the numeral and the descriptive elements.
One Card Torn Up With Pungent Result : ACRID
"One Card Torn Up With Pungent Result" is "ACRID." The clue involves an anagram indicated by "torn up," where the letters of "one card" are rearranged. When you rearrange "one card," you get "ACRID," which describes a pungent or sharp smell. The clue's phrase "pungent result" aligns with the meaning of "acrid," which refers to a strong, unpleasant odor.
Thus, "ACRID" fits the description perfectly by capturing the idea of a result that is both pungent and derived from an anagram of "one card."
Since The Thing Exists Without Alteration... : ASITIS
"Since The Thing Exists Without Alteration..." is "ASITIS." The phrase "as it is" means something exists or is presented without any changes or modifications. In the context of the clue, "Since" sets up the idea of something being in its current state or condition. "ASITIS" reflects this notion perfectly, indicating that something remains in its original form or state.
The clue’s description of "without alteration" aligns with the meaning of "ASITIS," capturing the idea of maintaining the existing state of something.
...Glean It Could Be Heavenly Being : ANGEL
"...Glean It Could Be Heavenly Being" is "ANGEL." The clue involves an anagram indicated by "could be," where the letters in "Glean It" are rearranged. When you rearrange these letters, you get "ANGEL," which refers to a heavenly being.
The clue's use of "heavenly being" directly points to the concept of an angel, and the phrase "glean it" suggests that the answer can be derived from the anagram of these words. Thus, "ANGEL" fits the clue by combining the idea of a heavenly figure with the anagram wordplay.
Friday, August 30, 2024 The Irish Independent Cryptic Crossword Puzzle Answers
ACROSS
1 Selected For The Team, But Beaten : CAPPED
4 They Get A Corresponding Licking : STAMPS
9 Notes From It Could Shock, Of Course : ELECTRICORGAN
10 Make Ready By Peeling Beforehand? : PREPARE
11 The Cards I Give Out Couldn't Be Better? : IDEAL
12 Wireless, Yet Exotic, 'air-do? : RADIO
14 Art Is On The Move : ASTIR
18 Pale Like A Bird : ASHEN
19 100 And 15 To Be Taught : CLASSES
21 So Got This Turn, Somehow, To Settle Matters? : SORTTHINGSOUT
22 Sober, Excited, Yet Sad : STEADY
23 100 Lights For Holding Things Together : CLAMPS
DOWN
1 Shrinking Horror Develops Gradually : CREEPS
2 Make An Accusation; Would Rather Make An Assault : PREFERACHARGE
3 Addition That Would Be Unusual If It Were Ordinary : EXTRA
5 Hot Spots: The Theme's About Right : TROPICS
6 The Elements In A Rage - Attractively? : MAGNETICSTORM
7 One On The Shelf, Perhaps : SINGLE
8 One Walking Without Hitch : HIKER
13 Set On Fire Through Dieting? : IGNITED
15 Fifty Idiots Of Girls : LASSES
16 One Card Torn Up With Pungent Result : ACRID
17 Since The Thing Exists Without Alteration... : ASITIS
20 ...Glean It Could Be Heavenly Being : ANGEL