Clue-reading guide
Direct-definition clues
The clue and answer are close synonyms or a simple category-and-member pair.
Signals to notice
- matching tense
- matching number
- matching part of speech
- plain wording
Worked example
Leave out
AnswerOMIT
Both are base-form verbs with the same meaning, so crossings and answer length do the disambiguating.
How to use this in a grid
Check grammar before reaching for obscure synonyms. A plural clue usually needs a plural answer; past tense usually stays past tense.