A new Quick Crossword puzzle, No 17,570, features a diverse set of clues designed to test both novice and experienced solvers. Expect challenges ranging from musical knowledge to geographical trivia.
Intricate Across Clues
The clues across begin with an economic term, involving “money in and out (of a business)” with a requirement for an eight-character response (4,4). Music enthusiasts might be delighted by the clue referencing a “German composer, 1685–1750,” which calls for a four-letter answer. If beverages are more your forte, there’s a clue for describing “not sparkling (water)” in just five letters. Another cultural nod involves a “quick, irregular motion,” seeking a seven-character word to solve.
Other across clues explore diverse themes like tax-free zones and natural phenomena. Notably, a 12-character clue (4-4,4) seeks a response associated with exemptions on alcohol and perfumes. Demonstrating physical action, a six-letter solution is required to denote “tumble – overthrow.” Freshly exhausted solvers might relate to the “4-2” clue for just that definition. Meanwhile, a dual-part, 12-character phrase (7,5) calls for a term indicating a “handless timer.”
Distinct challenges continue with an interest in simple human traits, expressed in a seven-letter form denoting “innocent trust, unworldliness.” As for animal markings, the five-letter clue combines zoological and fiery imagery. Mythology fans should also be on the lookout for a four-letter ‘underworld river’. Culinary enthusiasts might also enjoy deducing “pigs’ feet” into an eight-character word.
Engaging Down Clues
The down clues begin with precision, with a four-letter nod for a “truncheon.” Winter sports fans can aim to find the ideal term for a “steeply sloping, snowy ramp” using seven letters (3,4). Decency is tested with a more complex requirement of 12 characters (5,7). Accessories enthusiasts will recognise “bags, blue or shoes,” within a six-letter framework.
Cryptically, there’s a mix-up in “H or h,” seeking a simple yet potentially evasive five-letter response. Dance aficionados have an eight-letter challenge awaiting them in the “traditional sailor’s dance.” For the chess strategists, a clue presents an anagram challenge with “bisque magnet,” also demanding 12 letters (6,6).
The theme of learning is represented with an eight-letter term describing “those engaged in learning.” Authority figures may resonate with the seven-letter clue for “lay down with authority.” Dual identities of “actor or gamer” demand a six-letter solution. Lastly, a more tactile challenge involves deducing a five-letter expression for something “coated with ingrained dirt,” while further anatomical and photographic interest is sparked by the four-letter “part of eye or camera.”
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.