trying to think of the stupidest cryptic clue i’ve written. it’s probably ASDFGHJKL;RNBQKBNR? (4 3) and idk if it even really works
#cryptics
(The link above lets you solve this crossword online via Crosshare. The static grid image and clue list are below under the Read More.)
I've seen a few very good mini cryptic crosswords, so I thought I'd try to up the ante for cryptic-chosting. This is a full (15x15) cryptic crossword. I've tried to make it semi-approachable for solvers new to cryptics - there are a few tricky clues and obscure words, but hopefully enough easier ones to give everyone a foothold into the puzzle. I've also tried to keep Britishisms to a minimum so as not to lock out the rest of the world (though there is at least one British-specific abbreviation. Sorry).
Reference dictionary is the Collins Dictionary website. Other useful resources for new solvers might be the Qat wordfinder and the Cryptipedia collection of crossword-isms such as anagram indicators (warning: that last one runs on a Fandom wiki).
Some of the answers follow a theme; you don't have to spot the theme to complete the puzzle, but it might help you confirm a couple of the trickier words.
Happy to post hints and answers in the comments if you want help, and I'm planning to post the full solution and explanations later. Have fun!
finally got around to finishing this so i can confirm: it's good. lots of words where i'm like "i didn't know this word but the fair wordplay confirms it's this", which is the best thing about cryptics. there was one i Revealed because i assumed it was going to use an obscure abbreviation but it didn't and I immediately went "oh i could have gotten that". good stuff.
in other words, solve time ~7 months with hints
(The link above lets you solve this crossword online via Crosshare. The static grid image and clue list are below under the Read More.)
I've seen a few very good mini cryptic crosswords, so I thought I'd try to up the ante for cryptic-chosting. This is a full (15x15) cryptic crossword. I've tried to make it semi-approachable for solvers new to cryptics - there are a few tricky clues and obscure words, but hopefully enough easier ones to give everyone a foothold into the puzzle. I've also tried to keep Britishisms to a minimum so as not to lock out the rest of the world (though there is at least one British-specific abbreviation. Sorry).
Reference dictionary is the Collins Dictionary website. Other useful resources for new solvers might be the Qat wordfinder and the Cryptipedia collection of crossword-isms such as anagram indicators (warning: that last one runs on a Fandom wiki).
Some of the answers follow a theme; you don't have to spot the theme to complete the puzzle, but it might help you confirm a couple of the trickier words.
Happy to post hints and answers in the comments if you want help, and I'm planning to post the full solution and explanations later. Have fun!