Summoned On An Intercom Say Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 12, 2025

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Summoned on an intercom: Cracking the Crossword Clue

The seemingly simple crossword clue, "Summoned on an intercom," might initially appear straightforward. However, a closer examination reveals a fascinating interplay of language, context, and the subtle art of crossword construction. This article will delve deep into this seemingly simple clue, exploring its potential answers, the reasoning behind its construction, and the broader strategies for tackling similar cryptic clues.

Potential Answers and Their Rationale:

The most obvious answer, and the one most likely intended by the crossword setter, is PAGED. The reasoning is clear: when someone is "paged" on an intercom, they are being summoned. The verb "page" perfectly encapsulates the action of using an intercom system to call someone. This answer elegantly bridges the gap between the action described (summoning) and the method employed (intercom).

However, the beauty of cryptic crosswords lies in their potential for multiple valid solutions. While "PAGED" is the most probable answer, other possibilities, depending on the specific crossword and its difficulty level, could include:

• CALLED: This is a more general term for summoning someone, and technically, an intercom could be used to make such a call. However, it lacks the direct connection to the mechanism of an intercom that "PAGED" offers. A setter would likely choose "PAGED" for its specificity.

• ANNOUNCED: If the clue were worded slightly differently, such as "Name announced on an intercom," then "ANNOUNCED" might be a suitable answer. This focuses on the public nature of the announcement rather than the direct summoning of a specific person.

• SPOKEN TO: This is a much less likely answer due to its vagueness. While you could speak to someone via an intercom, it doesn't convey the immediacy and directness of being specifically summoned.

The choice between these answers depends on the overall crossword puzzle's difficulty and the surrounding clues. A harder crossword might be more likely to employ a less obvious, but still valid, solution.

Understanding Cryptic Crossword Construction:

Cryptic crossword clues often utilize wordplay and misdirection to challenge the solver. The clue "Summoned on an intercom" employs a straightforward definition (summoned) coupled with a precise indicator (on an intercom). This is a relatively simple type of cryptic clue, often found in easier crosswords. More complex clues might employ anagrams, hidden words, or double definitions to further obscure the answer.

The setter's skill lies in crafting a clue that is both challenging and fair. A good clue provides enough information to allow a solver to deduce the answer logically, without resorting to guesswork or obscure wordplay. The clue "Summoned on an intercom" succeeds in this regard, providing a clear and unambiguous link between the definition and the answer.

Strategies for Solving Similar Clues:

When encountering cryptic crossword clues, consider the following strategies:

1. Identify the Definition: Look for words or phrases that directly describe the answer. In this case, "Summoned" is the clear definition.

2. Find the Indicator: The indicator directs the solver to how the definition relates to the answer. "On an intercom" acts as the indicator, specifying the context.

3. Look for Wordplay: Cryptic clues often contain wordplay, such as anagrams, hidden words, or puns. While this clue doesn't use wordplay, other clues might.

4. Consider Alternative Meanings: Words can have multiple meanings. Consider each possible meaning to see if it fits the clue.

5. Use Cross-References: The letters already solved in intersecting clues can provide crucial hints. Working back and forth between intersecting words helps eliminate incorrect possibilities.

6. Check the Word Length: The number of squares provided for the answer provides a crucial constraint. If the clue suggests a seven-letter word, and you only have six letters, you know your solution is incomplete or incorrect.

7. Practice: The more cryptic crosswords you solve, the better you'll become at recognizing patterns and techniques.

Beyond the Clue: The Intercom's Role in Modern Communication

The humble intercom, a seemingly antiquated piece of technology, remains surprisingly relevant in modern communication. While smartphones and instant messaging dominate personal communication, intercom systems continue to play a crucial role in various settings:

• Businesses: Intercoms are essential in offices, factories, and retail stores for announcements, security alerts, and internal communication.

• Hospitals: Intercoms are vital for coordinating medical staff and emergency responses.

• Schools: Intercoms enable quick announcements and communication with students and staff.

• Hotels: Intercoms are used by staff to communicate with guests.

• Public Transportation: Announcements on public transportation often utilize intercom systems.

The prevalence of intercom systems in these environments underscores their continued importance in facilitating efficient communication and emergency response. The clue, therefore, transcends its purely crossword-related context, offering a brief glimpse into the lasting relevance of a surprisingly versatile piece of communication technology.

Conclusion:

The crossword clue "Summoned on an intercom" offers a perfect microcosm of the art of cryptic crossword construction. Its simplicity belies a deeper understanding of language and the subtle interplay of definition, wordplay, and context. By examining this clue, we've not only unearthed its probable answer, "PAGED," but also explored the broader strategies for tackling these intellectual challenges. The enduring presence of the intercom in various sectors of modern society reinforces the clue's relevance beyond the confines of the crossword puzzle itself, providing a compelling intersection of language, technology, and problem-solving.