Drivers Doing 90 Say Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 18, 2025

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Drivers Doing 90: Decoding the Crossword Clue

The crossword clue "Drivers doing 90" is a clever little puzzle that plays on words and requires a bit of lateral thinking. It doesn't refer to drivers literally speeding down a highway at 90 miles per hour. Instead, it's a cryptic clue that uses a combination of wordplay and common knowledge to arrive at a concise answer. Let's delve into the various aspects of this clue, exploring its components and potential solutions, while also touching upon the broader world of cryptic crossword construction.

Understanding Cryptic Clues:

Cryptic crosswords are a unique genre of puzzle that rely on wordplay and misdirection. Unlike standard crosswords, where clues directly define the answer, cryptic clues use a combination of wordplay techniques to conceal the solution. These techniques often include:

• Anagrams: Words or phrases rearranged to form a new word.
• Hidden Words: Words embedded within larger phrases.
• Double Definitions: Words with two distinct meanings, both relevant to the clue.
• Homophones: Words that sound alike but have different spellings and meanings.
• Charades: Clues broken into parts that combine to form the answer.

Deconstructing "Drivers Doing 90":

The clue "Drivers doing 90" employs a double definition and a bit of numerical association. Let's break it down:

• "Drivers": This is a straightforward definition, referring to people who operate vehicles.
• "Doing 90": This part is the key to the cryptic element. It doesn't literally mean driving at 90 mph. Instead, it alludes to the number 90 as a reference to a specific group of drivers.

The Likely Answer: NINETY

The most probable answer is NINETY. This works because:

1. A double definition: "Ninety" can be considered a group of drivers (e.g., "ninety drivers" or, in a broader context, a large number of drivers).
2. Numerical association: The clue explicitly states "90," directly pointing towards the number itself as part of the answer.

Why Other Answers Are Less Likely:

While "NINETY" is the most probable solution, it's important to consider why other potential interpretations are less fitting:

• Specific vehicle types: The clue doesn't specify any type of vehicle (e.g., "truck drivers," "taxi drivers"). This makes answers that would narrow the field of drivers (such as "lorries" or "cabbies") less likely.
• Speeding: While the "90" might initially suggest speed, it doesn't fit grammatically with the first part of the clue ("drivers"). Cryptic clues usually adhere to grammatically sound structures.
• Other numerical associations: The number 90 could have other meanings in specific contexts, but these are unlikely to be universally understood and would lack the elegance of the double-definition solution.

The Art of Cryptic Crossword Construction:

The brilliance of this clue lies in its deceptive simplicity. The constructor cleverly uses a common word ("drivers") alongside an ambiguous phrase ("doing 90") to create a puzzle that requires a shift in perspective. Cryptic crossword construction is a sophisticated art form, requiring both creativity and a deep understanding of language and wordplay.

Expanding the Discussion: Different Levels of Cryptic Clues

The difficulty of cryptic clues can vary significantly. Some are relatively straightforward, relying on obvious double definitions or simple anagrams. Others are far more intricate, incorporating multiple layers of wordplay and misdirection, making them challenging even for seasoned solvers. This clue falls somewhere in the middle – requiring lateral thinking but not relying on obscure wordplay or complex techniques.

Tips for Solving Cryptic Crosswords:

• Read the clue carefully: Pay attention to every word and its potential meaning.
• Look for wordplay indicators: Words like "anagram," "hidden," "sound like," and others often signal a specific wordplay technique.
• Consider the answer length: This provides a vital constraint, limiting the possibilities.
• Work across and down: The intersecting letters from other solved clues can provide valuable hints.
• Don't be afraid to guess: Sometimes, an educated guess based on the structure of the clue can lead to the solution.

Conclusion:

The crossword clue "Drivers doing 90" is a perfect example of a cleverly constructed cryptic clue. Its double definition, combined with the numerical association of "90," leads to the most fitting answer: NINETY. Understanding the mechanics behind such clues allows for a deeper appreciation of the art of cryptic crossword construction and enhances the enjoyment of solving these challenging and intellectually stimulating puzzles. This analysis goes beyond simply providing the answer; it delves into the craft, offering insights for both novice and experienced cryptic crossword enthusiasts.