CRYPTO CLUES LVIII

GAMES Magazine

May/June, 1981

Henry Hook

 

Simplicity and deception are the twin seductions of the cryptic crossword. While the clues may appear complex - even bizarre - they do follow one simple rule: Each consists of a direct or indirect definition of the answer and a second description of the answer through wordplay. Finding the dividing point between the two parts is the key to solving. Being misled is part of the fun.

 

For example, in the clue, Pass a bill or a cent that's counterfeit, the clue tricks us into thinking it's about passing a counterfeit bill or coin. In fact, the clue should be broken at Pass a bill. The word ENACT means to pass a bill and is the answer to the clue.  a cent is an anagram of enact - as suggested by the word counterfeit.

 

In the puzzle below, watch for  second definitions (homographs or two meanings), anagrams, hidden words, reversals, charades (two or more words), and homophones - which you will find in order in the first six clues.

1. Avoid an automobile

2. A blues rendition is fitting

3. Country seen in Picasso's paintings

4. Velocity is upended in the lower regions of the ocean

5. Tense moment for a doctor and his organization

6. We hear the English school has had dinner

7. Thrash a fish (homograph)

8. Bar can be seen from Honshu to Utah (hidden words)

 

Answers:

 

1. DODGE

2. USABLE

3. SPAIN

4. DEEPS

5. DRAMA 

6. EATEN

7. FLOUNDER 

8. SHUT OUT (BAR) [honSHU TO  UTah]