Today’s The Irish Independent Cryptic Crossword August 31, 2024 Answers

Joint Holder Crossword Clue 8 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Joint Holder is MEATSAFE. "Joint Holder" leads to the answer "MEATSAFE," which might initially seem confusing, but it can be understood through a bit of wordplay. A meat safe is a type of storage unit used historically to keep meat cool and safe from pests, often equipped with perforated sides to allow airflow.

In this context, "joint" refers to the meat being stored, and "holder" denotes the function of the meat safe in holding or preserving meat. Thus, the answer "MEATSAFE" cleverly fits the clue by combining the idea of meat (a joint) with the concept of a container or holder.

A Cliff Fall Could Possibly Be The Reason For One Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue A Cliff Fall Could Possibly Be The Reason For One is SCAR. "A Cliff Fall Could Possibly Be The Reason For One" leads to the answer "SCAR." Here’s the breakdown: if someone falls from a cliff, the injury they sustain could leave a scar.

The word "scar" metaphorically and literally fits the scenario of a cliff fall, as a scar is a visible mark left on the skin after an injury heals. In this way, the fall from a cliff is an example of an event that could result in a scar, aligning with the clue’s hint of a reason for one. Thus, the answer "SCAR" succinctly captures the consequence of such a dramatic fall.

It's Fixed To The Foot To Help One Ride Faster Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue It's Fixed To The Foot To Help One Ride Faster is SPUR. "It's Fixed To The Foot To Help One Ride Faster" refers to a "SPUR." A spur is a small metal device attached to a rider's heel and used to prod a horse to move faster.

When fixed to the rider's boot, the spur helps control and encourage the horse, enhancing the rider's ability to ride more quickly. This device is specifically designed to assist in increasing speed and maneuverability, making "SPUR" the perfect fit for the clue.

Its Trend Is Disposed To Be Unpleasantly Harsh Crossword Clue 8 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Its Trend Is Disposed To Be Unpleasantly Harsh is STRIDENT. "Its Trend Is Disposed To Be Unpleasantly Harsh" leads to the answer "STRIDENT." The term "strident" describes a loud, harsh, and grating sound or manner, often associated with being unpleasantly forceful or aggressive.

The clue hints at a characteristic of something that tends to be abrasive or jarring, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of "strident." Hence, this word aptly fits the clue's description of something that is trendily harsh or unpleasant.

An Alternative To The German Command Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue An Alternative To The German Command is ORDER. "An Alternative To The German Command" points to the answer "ORDER." In this context, "order" serves as an English alternative to the German word "Befehl," which also means command.

The clue suggests looking for a word that can serve as a command or directive, which "order" fits perfectly. Therefore, "order" is the alternative term for a command, regardless of language, aligning with the idea of issuing instructions or directives.

Tour Round And Round The Building Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Tour Round And Round The Building is ROTUNDA. "Tour Round And Round The Building" leads to the answer "ROTUNDA." A rotunda is a circular building or room, often domed, designed to allow people to move around its central area, effectively making it possible to tour around and around within it.

The word "rotunda" captures the essence of the clue by combining the idea of a circular shape with the notion of movement or touring around it. Thus, a rotunda fits perfectly as a structure where one would go round and round the building.

Provisionally How A Book Token May Serve? Crossword Clue 13 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Provisionally How A Book Token May Serve? is FORTHEPRESENT. "Provisionally How A Book Token May Serve?" leads to the answer "FORTHEPRESENT." A book token is often a temporary or provisional means of purchasing books, and "for the present" aptly describes something intended for immediate use or temporarily.

This phrase captures the essence of a book token's function, as it provides a provisional solution for obtaining books, fitting the notion of serving "for the present" time. Therefore, "FORTHEPRESENT" effectively reflects how a book token functions as a temporary provision.

Footballers Wouldn't Be Prepared To Play Without Them Crossword Clue 8 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Footballers Wouldn't Be Prepared To Play Without Them is TRAINERS. "Footballers Wouldn't Be Prepared To Play Without Them" points to the answer "TRAINERS." In football, "trainers" are essential equipment, commonly referring to athletic shoes or sneakers that players wear to train and play.

These shoes are crucial for providing the necessary support, grip, and comfort needed on the field. Without them, footballers would struggle to perform effectively and safely. Thus, "TRAINERS" are indispensable for players, aligning with the clue’s implication of necessity in preparation for the game.

Scheme That Is Little Short Of Perfect Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Scheme That Is Little Short Of Perfect is IDEA. "Scheme That Is Little Short Of Perfect" leads to the answer "IDEA." In this context, "scheme" refers to a plan or concept, and "idea" is often used to describe a scheme or proposal.

The phrase "little short of perfect" hints at something almost perfect but not quite—an idea that is close to ideal but might still need refinement. Therefore, "IDEA" fits well as it represents a scheme or plan that is nearly perfect, capturing the essence of something valuable but not completely flawless.

Appear Very Interested, Then Change Occupation Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Appear Very Interested, Then Change Occupation is ENTHUSE. "Appear Very Interested, Then Change Occupation" leads to the answer "ENTHUSE." Here, "appear very interested" aligns with the meaning of "enthuse," which means to show enthusiasm or interest.

The part "then change occupation" hints at a play on words where "enthuse" can be split into "en" (to be in) and "thuse" (a playful alteration of "sues," suggesting a change or occupation in a figurative sense). Thus, "enthuse" encapsulates the idea of showing strong interest or passion, fitting both parts of the clue.

Exercise To Get Through Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Exercise To Get Through is DRILL. "Exercise To Get Through" leads to the answer "DRILL." In this context, "drill" refers to a type of exercise or practice used to reinforce skills or procedures.

The phrase "to get through" implies going through a process repetitively, which aligns with the concept of a "drill" as a routine exercise or training method designed to ensure proficiency. Therefore, "drill" fits perfectly as it represents both the exercise and the means to thoroughly go through something repeatedly.

It's Usually Sweet And Sour Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue It's Usually Sweet And Sour is TART. "It's Usually Sweet And Sour" points to the answer "TART." A tart is a type of pastry that often features a filling with a balance of sweet and sour flavors, such as fruit or lemon curd.

The term "tart" itself describes this characteristic blend of taste, making it a fitting answer to the clue. This pastry embodies the combination of sweetness and acidity, which is why "tart" is the answer to the clue, reflecting its typical flavor profile.

A Run Caused By Panic In The Stock Market, Perhaps Crossword Clue 8 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue A Run Caused By Panic In The Stock Market, Perhaps is STAMPEDE. "A Run Caused By Panic In The Stock Market, Perhaps" leads to the answer "STAMPEDE." In a stock market context, a "stampede" metaphorically describes a sudden and chaotic rush or panic among investors, similar to a physical stampede of animals. This term captures the sense of a frantic and uncontrollable movement driven by fear or urgency.

Just as a real stampede involves a hurried, often overwhelming rush, a financial stampede reflects a sharp, widespread reaction in the market. Hence, "STAMPEDE" aptly represents this concept of panic-induced activity.

Grass From A Strange Seaport Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Grass From A Strange Seaport is ESPARTO. "Grass From A Strange Seaport" leads to the answer "ESPARTO." Here, "esparto" is a type of grass that grows in Mediterranean regions and is used to make rope and baskets.

The wordplay involves an anagram of "seaport," which, when rearranged, spells "esparto." The clue cleverly combines the definition of the grass with a hint to its name being derived from an anagram of "seaport," linking the geographical reference to the grass. Hence, "ESPARTO" is both the literal answer and the result of the wordplay.

Hill Split By Flood Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Hill Split By Flood is TORRENT. "Hill Split By Flood" leads to the answer "TORRENT." Here, "torrent" means a heavy, fast-moving stream of water, which aligns with the concept of a flood.

The wordplay involves splitting the word "TORRENT" into "TOR" (a hill or rocky peak) and "RENT" (which can imply something torn or split). Together, these elements combine to form the word "TORRENT," reflecting both the literal meaning of a flood and the playful breakdown of the clue.

It's Tense, But What's Ahead Couldn't Be Better Crossword Clue 13 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue It's Tense, But What's Ahead Couldn't Be Better is FUTUREPERFECT. "It's Tense, But What's Ahead Couldn't Be Better" leads to the answer "FUTUREPERFECT." In grammar, the "future perfect" tense is used to describe an action that will be completed before a certain point in the future. The term "tense" directly refers to this grammatical construct.

The phrase "what's ahead couldn't be better" cleverly hints at the term "future perfect," as it denotes an ideal state or condition that will be achieved by a future time. This explanation combines the grammatical aspect with the notion of something optimally planned or anticipated, capturing the essence of the clue.

Case Len Resolved To Clear Up Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Case Len Resolved To Clear Up is CLEANSE. "Case Len Resolved To Clear Up" leads to the answer "CLEANSE." To decipher this, first recognize that "resolved" indicates an anagram is needed.

Rearranging the letters of "Case Len" yields "CLEANSE," which fits the definition "to clear up." In this context, "case" serves as a signal for an anagram, while "len" is part of the anagram's letter pool. Thus, the solution "CLEANSE" aptly matches both the wordplay and the definition, encapsulating the process of making something clean or purifying it.

What Luther Refused To Do About A Religious Treatise Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue What Luther Refused To Do About A Religious Treatise is RETRACT. "What Luther Refused To Do About A Religious Treatise" leads to the answer "RETRACT." In this context, Martin Luther, the 16th-century theologian and reformer, famously refused to retract his statements and writings during the Diet of Worms.

The term "retract" means to withdraw or take back, which is precisely what Luther was pressured to do but refused, standing firm in his beliefs against the Catholic Church's demands. Hence, "retract" fits the definition of what Luther did not do concerning his religious treatise.

It Is Up To A New Poet To Go Lightly Crossword Clue 6 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue It Is Up To A New Poet To Go Lightly is TIPTOE. "It Is Up To A New Poet To Go Lightly" leads to the answer "TIPTOE." The phrase "go lightly" suggests a delicate or careful approach, which is precisely what "tiptoe" describes—moving quietly and lightly on one's toes.

The clue's play on words hints at the idea of a "new poet" who might be tentative or cautious in their approach, much like how one would move on tiptoe. Thus, "tiptoe" encapsulates both the literal and figurative sense of proceeding with caution or subtlety, aligning with the clue's intent.

Examine After An Attack Expected To Survive Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Examine After An Attack Expected To Survive is FITTEST. "Examine After An Attack Expected To Survive" leads to the answer "FITTEST." The word "examine" suggests looking closely or assessing, which is metaphorically linked to determining who is "fit" or capable.

The phrase "after an attack" implies that surviving or enduring a challenge is involved. The concept of the "fittest" refers to those who are most capable or resilient, often surviving or thriving after challenges. Thus, "fit" (to be in good condition) combined with "test" (to examine) forms "fittest," aligning with the idea of survival and endurance in the face of adversity.

Parson Goes Round A Nuclear Establishment Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Parson Goes Round A Nuclear Establishment is REACTOR. "Parson Goes Round A Nuclear Establishment" leads to the answer "REACTOR." Here, "Parson" is used to suggest the letters "RE," derived from "RE" being a common abbreviation for Reverend or Parson.

The phrase "goes round" indicates that "RE" should be placed around or encircle another element. The term "nuclear establishment" refers to a facility involved in nuclear reactions, which is a "REACTOR." Thus, placing "RE" around the word "ACTOR" (a word symbolizing someone who performs or operates) forms "REACTOR," the term for a nuclear facility.

A Decoration Put On In Time Crossword Clue 6 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue A Decoration Put On In Time is HONOUR. "A Decoration Put On In Time" leads to the answer "HONOUR." Here, "A Decoration" refers to an award or recognition, which is often described as an "honor" or "honour."

The phrase "Put On In Time" suggests that this honor or decoration is something that one might receive or be awarded over time. Therefore, "HONOUR" fits both the definition of a decoration and the concept of something granted or received in time, aligning with the clue's intended meaning.

It's Important To One's Standing As A Rider Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue It's Important To One's Standing As A Rider is STIRRUP. "It's Important To One's Standing As A Rider" leads to the answer "STIRRUP." In this context, "stirrup" is a crucial piece of equipment for a rider, providing support and stability while mounting and riding a horse.

The term "standing" refers to the rider's position or posture, which is directly influenced by the use of stirrups. Without them, maintaining balance and proper position while riding would be challenging. Therefore, the stirrup is important to a rider's standing, both literally in terms of support and figuratively in terms of their ability to ride effectively.

Poverty Led To Being Irritated Crossword Clue 7 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Poverty Led To Being Irritated is NEEDLED. "Poverty Led To Being Irritated" resolves to the answer "NEEDLED." Here, "needled" refers to the state of being provoked or irritated, as in "being needled" by someone.

The term "poverty" is a wordplay element; it hints at "need," which is synonymous with poverty or lack. Thus, the answer combines the idea of being in a state of want or need with the expression of irritation, creating a connection between the feeling of lacking something and the irritation or provocation that follows.

Saturday, August 31, 2024 The Irish Independent Cryptic Crossword Puzzle Answers

ACROSS​

1 Joint Holder : MEATSAFE

5 A Cliff Fall Could Possibly Be The Reason For One : SCAR

9 It's Fixed To The Foot To Help One Ride Faster : SPUR

10 Its Trend Is Disposed To Be Unpleasantly Harsh : STRIDENT

11 An Alternative To The German Command : ORDER

12 Tour Round And Round The Building : ROTUNDA

13 Provisionally How A Book Token May Serve? : FORTHEPRESENT

18 Footballers Wouldn't Be Prepared To Play Without Them : TRAINERS

19 Scheme That Is Little Short Of Perfect : IDEA

20 Appear Very Interested, Then Change Occupation : ENTHUSE

21 Exercise To Get Through : DRILL

22 It's Usually Sweet And Sour : TART

23 A Run Caused By Panic In The Stock Market, Perhaps : STAMPEDE

DOWN

2 Grass From A Strange Seaport : ESPARTO

3 Hill Split By Flood : TORRENT

4 It's Tense, But What's Ahead Couldn't Be Better : FUTUREPERFECT

6 Case Len Resolved To Clear Up : CLEANSE

7 What Luther Refused To Do About A Religious Treatise : RETRACT

8 It Is Up To A New Poet To Go Lightly : TIPTOE

13 Examine After An Attack Expected To Survive : FITTEST

14 Parson Goes Round A Nuclear Establishment : REACTOR

15 A Decoration Put On In Time : HONOUR

16 It's Important To One's Standing As A Rider : STIRRUP

17 Poverty Led To Being Irritated : NEEDLED