Deciphering Cryptic Crossword Clues: How 'Using Nails but Doesn’t Make the Starting Gate' Leads to 'Scratches'
Cryptic crosswords can be a lot of fun, but they often throw in some complex and mysterious clues that leave solvers scratching their heads. Today, we’ll explore one such tricky clue and break it down for better understanding. Let's take a closer look at the cryptic clue: “Using nails but doesn’t make the starting gate” leads to the answer 'scratches'.”
Understanding the Clue
When you encounter a cryptic crossword, it’s crucial to understand its components. This clue employs a double definition strategy, where the answer is hidden within two distinct definitions. The first part of the clue, “using nails,” is attempting to define part of the answer, as we’ll see. The second part, “doesn’t make the starting gate,” provides the second definition.
Breaking Down the First Definition
The clue suggests that “using nails” might be a clue for 'scratching'. However, this is not the final answer. While scratching involves using nails, this is not the correct interpretation in the context of the puzzle. Just as a misplaced readers’ test might prompt you to reconsider the intended meaning, here the intended meaning is clearly a different word.
Interpreting the Second Definition
The second part of the clue, “doesn’t make the starting gate,” is a synonym for 'scratched'. In horse racing, if a horse is scratched, it means the horse has been withdrawn from the race and won’t make it to the starting gate. This is a straightforward explanation for the second definition of the answer.
The Curiosity of Cryptic Clues
Many solvers might find the beginning of the clue slightly off-putting, as it suggests a clue for 'scratching' rather than 'scratches'. The use of "using nails" instead of "uses nails" might indeed be a typo or a deliberate misdirection. A closer and cleaner clue would be: “Uses nails but doesn’t make the starting gate.” This version not only maintains clarity but also offers a better surface reading, which any solver would appreciate.
Exploring the Concepts
Double Definition Clue
A double definition clue is a popular and challenging type of cryptic clue. In a double definition, the answer is explained through two different meanings. The solver must find both definitions and piece them together to form the answer. For example:
“French food course with parsley (6)”
The answer here is “entrée”— a definition of which is “a French food course” (6 letters) and “a sprig of parsley” (also 6 letters).
Horse Racing Terminology
Horse racing is filled with terminology that might be unfamiliar to non-participants. Some of these terms directly link to the clue in question, such as:
Scratched: A term indicating a horse has been withdrawn from a race, often before it starts. Starting gate: The mechanism that starts the race, where horses line up ready to run. Withdrawn: To remove a horse or a participant from a competition or event. Unexpectedly: A twist or an unforeseen event leading to a horse being removed from a race.Conclusion and Final Thought
While solving cryptic crosswords, it's essential to approach the clues with a flexible mindset. Sometimes, a seemingly incorrect first definition can lead you to a comprehensive and elegant solution. The clue “Using nails but doesn’t make the starting gate” is a perfect example of this challenge. By breaking down the clue into its components, we can see how solvers might misinterpret the first definition before landing on the logical and satisfying answer.
Do you enjoy solving cryptic crossword clues? What is your favorite puzzle or mystery to solve? Leave your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Happy solving!