Cryptic Crossword Clue Types
Cryptic crossword clues use specific wordplay conventions to encode answers. Each clue type follows its own rules and uses indicator words to signal the solver. Understanding these types is the key to solving cryptic crosswords.
Facts
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Anagram | Letters rearranged, signaled by indicators like 'mixed', 'broken', 'confused' |
| Hidden Word | Answer is hidden within the clue text, signaled by 'in', 'part of', 'some' |
| Reversal | Answer is a word spelled backwards, signaled by 'back', 'returned', 'up' (down clues) |
| Container | One word placed inside another, signaled by 'around', 'containing', 'holding' |
| Double Definition | Two definitions for the same word placed side by side |
| Charade | Answer built from parts placed together, like a word chain |
| Homophone | Answer sounds like another word, signaled by 'sounds like', 'heard', 'say' |
| Deletion | A letter or letters removed from a word, signaled by 'losing', 'without', 'headless' |
| Spoonerism | Initial sounds of words are swapped, signaled by 'Spooner' or 'Spoonerism' |
| Key Rule | Every cryptic clue must contain a straight definition plus wordplay |