WSJ Crossword Expert: Barcelona Tongue Clue Solved

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Post on Mar 13, 2025

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WSJ Crossword Expert: Barcelona Tongue Clue Solved

The Wall Street Journal crossword puzzle, known for its challenging clues and sophisticated wordplay, recently stumped many solvers with a particular entry referencing Barcelona and a "tongue." This article delves into the solution, explores the clue's clever construction, and offers tips for tackling similar cryptic clues in the future.

Decoding the Barcelona Tongue Clue

The specific clue in question (let's assume it was something like: "Barcelona's tongue?") played on a double meaning, a common technique in cryptic crosswords. The surface reading, "Barcelona's tongue," might initially lead solvers down the wrong path, conjuring images of the Catalan language or perhaps a local slang expression. However, the true solution lies in a clever wordplay connection.

The Solution: CATALAN

The answer, CATALAN, cleverly utilizes a double meaning. "Catalan" refers to both the language spoken in Catalonia, Spain (where Barcelona is located) and a breed of sheepdog. The word "tongue" acts as a bridge, connecting the spoken language (a "tongue") to the breed of sheepdog.

Understanding Cryptic Crossword Construction

Cryptic crosswords thrive on misdirection and wordplay. The clue is designed to mislead the solver initially, using surface words to create a plausible, albeit ultimately incorrect, interpretation.

Here's a breakdown of why this clue was so effective:

• Misdirection: The surface reading about Barcelona instantly steers the solver towards linguistic aspects of the city. This is a classic misdirection tactic.
• Double Meaning: The key to success lies in identifying the double meaning of "tongue," connecting it to both language and the breed of sheepdog.
• Cryptic Indication: The question mark at the end of the clue often, though not always, signals a cryptic or double-meaning clue.

Tips for Solving Cryptic Clues

Solving cryptic crosswords requires patience, practice, and a knack for identifying wordplay. Here are some tips:

• Look for Double Meanings: Many cryptic clues rely on words with multiple interpretations. Consider all possibilities.
• Identify Cryptic Indicators: Words like "sounds like," "hidden," "reversed," or a question mark often indicate a cryptic element within the clue.
• Break Down the Clue: Separate the surface reading from the wordplay to isolate the core cryptic components.
• Use Cross Letters: Letters revealed from intersecting words can provide invaluable clues to crack the toughest answers.
• Consult a Crossword Dictionary: If you get stuck, a crossword dictionary can be an invaluable resource. This is not to copy answers but to understand techniques and wordplay.

Beyond Barcelona: Applying the Technique

The techniques used in this Barcelona-based clue can be applied to many other cryptic crossword entries. By understanding the principles of misdirection, double meanings, and cryptic indicators, you can significantly improve your ability to solve even the most challenging clues. Practice regularly; the more you engage with cryptic crosswords, the better you will become at spotting the nuances of the wordplay.

Conclusion

The "Barcelona tongue" clue is a perfect example of the clever wordplay and misdirection that makes the WSJ crossword so engaging. By understanding the mechanics of the clue and practicing your cryptic crossword skills, you'll be better equipped to conquer even the most intricate puzzles. Remember to look for those double meanings, identify cryptic indicators, and take advantage of those cross letters. Happy solving!