What Simon Does Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 17, 2025

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What Simon Does Crossword Clue: Unlocking the Puzzle Master's Secret

The seemingly simple crossword clue, "What Simon Does," might initially seem straightforward. However, this seemingly innocuous phrase hides a depth of potential answers, depending on the crossword's difficulty and the setter's intent. This article delves into the various possibilities, exploring the multifaceted nature of Simon's actions and providing a comprehensive guide to solving this common crossword clue.

The Obvious Answer: Says

The most immediate and likely answer to "What Simon Does" is SAYS. This is a direct reference to the children's game "Simon Says," where the leader gives instructions prefixed with "Simon Says," and only commands beginning with this phrase should be obeyed. This is a widely known game, making "SAYS" a plausible and often correct solution.

However, the beauty of crossword clues lies in their potential for ambiguity and multiple layers of meaning. A simple, obvious answer might be a trap, leading the solver down the wrong path. Let's explore some less obvious, but equally valid, possibilities.

Beyond "Says": Exploring Other Potential Answers

The clue's effectiveness hinges on the solver's knowledge of various contexts and cultural references. Therefore, depending on the crossword's difficulty and target audience, alternative answers might be considered. Let's examine some less common possibilities:

• Directs: Simon, as a leader figure, could be directing or commanding others. This interpretation aligns with the authoritative role often assumed in games like "Simon Says." The answer "DIRECTS" fits well if the crossword puzzle hints at a leadership or managerial context.

• Commands: Similar to "Directs," "COMMANDS" represents another aspect of Simon's actions in the game, emphasizing the imperative nature of his instructions. This is a suitable answer when the crossword focuses on authority and power.

• Leads: This answer subtly shifts the focus from specific commands to a broader sense of guidance. Simon is leading the game, guiding the players through the actions. This answer might be appropriate in crosswords emphasizing leadership and direction.

• Plays: A more general term, "PLAYS" encompasses the participation in the game itself. This answer works if the crossword wants a more inclusive term encompassing all aspects of Simon's role.

• Judges: In a variation of "Simon Says," Simon might act as a judge, observing whether players follow the instructions correctly. This answer is appropriate in a context where evaluation or judgment is implied.

The Importance of Cross-Referencing:

The key to successfully solving any crossword clue, including "What Simon Does," lies in cross-referencing. Look at the intersecting letters and consider the other clues in the puzzle. These clues might provide crucial hints about the context, difficulty level, and the intended answer.

For example, if a surrounding clue hints at a musical context, the answer might be related to Simon & Garfunkel, leading to entirely different solutions – such as "SINGS" or "WRITES." The context provided by the intersecting words is essential for narrowing down the possibilities.

Word Length and Letter Patterns:

The number of letters required for the answer is a crucial constraint. The number of available spaces in the crossword grid dictates the potential length of the word. This eliminates many possibilities immediately. Additionally, the pattern of already filled letters in the intersecting words provides further constraints. Using this information allows solvers to identify and eliminate improbable answers.

Leveraging Online Crossword Solvers and Dictionaries:

In challenging situations, employing online crossword solvers and dictionaries can be beneficial. These tools offer alternative word options that match specific letter patterns and lengths, aiding in the solution process. However, these tools should be used as a last resort, after exploring all other possible solutions.

Understanding the Setter's Intent:

Experienced crossword setters frequently embed layers of meaning and wordplay within their clues. They often use well-known phrases or concepts, like "Simon Says," to create a seemingly simple clue with potentially multiple answers. Understanding the setter's intent requires analyzing the puzzle's overall theme and difficulty level.

Conclusion: A Multifaceted Clue

The crossword clue "What Simon Does" showcases the puzzle-solving process's complexity and depth. While the most common answer is "SAYS," exploring other possibilities reveals the richness and ambiguity inherent in such clues. Successful solving requires a combination of knowledge, deduction, cross-referencing, and an understanding of the crossword setter's intent. By considering the context, letter patterns, and potential wordplay, solvers can effectively navigate the complexities of this intriguing clue and unlock its secrets. The challenge lies not only in finding an answer but also in understanding why it is the correct one within the specific context of the puzzle.