They Get Drunk Before Dinner Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 04, 2025

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They Get Drunk Before Dinner: Unraveling the Crossword Clue

This article delves into the crossword clue "They get drunk before dinner," exploring its potential solutions and the reasoning behind them. We'll examine the wordplay involved, consider common crossword conventions, and offer a comprehensive guide to solving this type of cryptic clue. Understanding the nuances of cryptic crossword clues requires a blend of linguistic dexterity and logical reasoning. This exploration will equip solvers with the tools to tackle similar clues with confidence.

Decoding the Clue:

The clue "They get drunk before dinner" is a cryptic clue, meaning it contains more than just a straightforward definition. It employs wordplay to conceal the answer. The phrase "get drunk" suggests a process of inebriation, while "before dinner" indicates a temporal element. This suggests the answer is a word or phrase that can be interpreted in both a literal and figurative sense, relating to something that becomes "drunk" (soaked or saturated) before the dinner hour.

Potential Solutions and Their Rationale:

Several words or phrases could potentially fit this clue, depending on the number of letters required and the overall crossword puzzle's theme. Let's consider some possibilities:

1. OLIVES: Olives are often served as an appetizer before dinner. The wordplay here lies in the double meaning of "drunk." Olives, in a sense, are "drunk" with brine or oil during their preparation. This interpretation relies on a figurative understanding of "drunk."

2. APERITIFS: Aperitifs are alcoholic beverages traditionally served before dinner to stimulate the appetite. The literal meaning of "get drunk" aligns perfectly with the consumption of alcohol, making this a strong contender if the clue's letter count matches.

3. DRINKS: This is a more straightforward solution. While seemingly simplistic, "drinks" often precede dinner, fitting the temporal aspect of the clue. The "drunk" element is less figurative here, relying on the inherent possibility of alcoholic beverages being consumed.

4. NAPKINS: A less likely, but possible, solution could be "napkins." Napkins can be "drunk" with spilled drinks or sauces before dinner. This is a more obscure interpretation relying heavily on the less common meaning of "drunk."

Analyzing the Wordplay Techniques:

Cryptic crossword clues often employ several wordplay techniques. In this clue, the following techniques are at play:

• Double Definition: This involves using a word or phrase with two distinct meanings. Both meanings must fit the clue's context. "Olives" and "Aperitifs" both showcase this.

• Cryptic Definition: This type of clue uses figurative language to hint at the answer. The "drunk" element could be considered a cryptic definition in the case of "Olives," shifting the meaning from inebriation to saturation.

• Hidden Word: While less likely in this specific case, some cryptic clues might contain the answer hidden within the clue itself.

Strategies for Solving Similar Clues:

To successfully tackle similar cryptic clues, consider these strategies:

1. Identify the Wordplay: Look for words or phrases within the clue that may have multiple meanings or could be interpreted figuratively.

2. Consider Synonyms and Related Terms: Explore synonyms and related terms for words in the clue. For instance, "inebriated" could be a synonym for "drunk."

3. Pay Attention to the Letter Count: The number of letters required for the answer is crucial. This helps narrow down the possibilities significantly.

4. Look for Patterns: If a crossword has a theme, the clue may relate to that theme in some way.

Common Crossword Conventions:

Understanding common crossword conventions is essential for success. Some of these include:

• Abbreviations: Clues may use abbreviations, requiring solvers to recognize common shorthand.
• Anagrams: Some clues involve anagrams (rearranging letters).
• Container Clues: The answer might be one word contained within another.

Expanding the Context: Beyond the Crossword

The phrase "they get drunk before dinner" also has broader implications beyond the crossword puzzle. It can be used figuratively to describe social gatherings, preparations for special occasions, or even certain cultural norms. This understanding enhances the richness of the clue and aids in finding the most appropriate answer.

Conclusion:

The crossword clue "They get drunk before dinner" presents a challenging but rewarding exercise in cryptic puzzle-solving. By understanding the potential solutions, analyzing the wordplay techniques, and employing effective strategies, solvers can confidently tackle this and similar clues. The key lies in recognizing the dual meanings and figurative language employed to conceal the answer. The exploration of this specific clue also provides valuable insight into the broader world of cryptic crosswords, showcasing the ingenuity and wordplay at the heart of these beloved puzzles. Remember to always consider the letter count and the overall puzzle's theme when attempting to find the best fit.