Goes Out In The Rain Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 11, 2025

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Decoding "Goes Out in the Rain" Crossword Clues: A Comprehensive Guide

The seemingly simple crossword clue, "Goes out in the rain," might appear straightforward, but it can actually encompass a surprising range of answers depending on the context. This article delves deep into the various possibilities, exploring the nuances of language and the different ways this phrase can be interpreted within the constraints of a crossword puzzle. We'll uncover the most common answers and provide strategies to help you solve this tricky clue with confidence.

Understanding the Ambiguity:

The clue's ambiguity stems from the dual meaning of "goes out." It can refer to a physical action—leaving a building or home—or a metaphorical action—becoming extinguished or failing. The word "rain" adds another layer, suggesting weather-related activities or the effects of rain on objects or people.

Common Answers and Their Rationale:

Let's examine some of the most frequently encountered answers for "Goes out in the rain," explaining the logic behind each:

• DAMPENS: This is a strong contender, particularly in cryptic crosswords. It uses the metaphorical sense of "goes out" (being diminished or lessened). The rain dampens things, reducing their intensity or brightness.

• WETS: This is a more straightforward answer, focusing on the literal effect of rain. The rain wets things, making them moist. This answer works best when the crossword clue provides a word count or letter count that fits "WETS."

• SOAKS: Similar to "wets," but emphasizing the thorough saturation caused by rain. This answer is suitable for clues suggesting a more intense or prolonged exposure to rain.

• GETS WET: A more direct and descriptive answer. This is a longer solution and thus only appropriate for crosswords accommodating a longer answer.

Less Common, but Potentially Valid Answers:

Depending on the specific crossword puzzle and the surrounding clues, other answers might be considered:

• MELTS: If the clue refers to something that dissolves or disappears in the rain (like snow or ice), "melts" could be a fitting response.

• FADES: This works if the clue relates to something that loses its color or vibrancy in the rain (like paint or fabric).

• LEAVES: This relates to the physical act of "going out," specifically leaving a place in the rain. This answer is less likely unless other clues strongly suggest movement.

Strategies for Solving "Goes Out in the Rain" Clues:

1. Consider the Word Length: The number of letters required is crucial. This immediately eliminates possibilities and narrows down your options.

2. Look at the Surrounding Clues: Crosswords often provide interconnected clues. The intersecting words can provide letters to help you deduce the answer. Examine the answers you've already filled in.

3. Think about the Tone: Is the crossword cryptic or straightforward? Cryptic crosswords often require more metaphorical or lateral thinking.

4. Use Online Crossword Solvers (Sparingly): If you're completely stuck, online solvers can offer suggestions. However, try to solve the clue yourself first to enhance your crossword-solving skills.

5. Check for Synonyms and Related Words: The clue might be using synonyms or words with a similar meaning to "goes out." Consider words like "extinguishes," "diminishes," "leaves," "exits," etc.

Example Crossword Puzzle Scenarios:

Let's illustrate with hypothetical examples:

Scenario 1 (Straightforward):

Clue: Goes out in the rain (5 letters)

Answer: WETS

Scenario 2 (Cryptic):

Clue: What the sun does, but differently, when the rain arrives (8 letters)

Answer: DAMPENS (The sun "brightens," but rain "dampens.")

Scenario 3 (Emphasis on Physical Action):

Clue: He goes out in the rain to walk his dog (6 letters)

Answer: LEAVES (This focuses on the physical act of leaving.)

Advanced Techniques for Cryptic Clues:

Cryptic crosswords often use wordplay to create more challenging clues. In these cases, the clue might contain:

• Anagrams: Rearrangements of letters to form a new word.
• Hidden Words: A word hidden within another word in the clue.
• Reversals: Words spelled backward.
• Homophones: Words that sound alike but have different spellings.

If you encounter a cryptic crossword clue involving "goes out in the rain," meticulously examine the entire clue for any of these wordplay techniques.

Conclusion:

The seemingly simple clue "Goes out in the rain" reveals the complexity and depth within crossword puzzles. By understanding the ambiguity of the phrase and employing the strategies outlined above, you can confidently decipher the answer and enhance your crossword-solving skills. Remember to always consider word length, surrounding clues, and the overall tone of the crossword to unlock the correct solution. With practice, you'll become adept at tackling even the trickiest of crossword clues.