cops duty wsj crossword

Sandra Almird

2 min read

·

02-01-2025

16

0

Share

Decoding "Cops' Duty" in the WSJ Crossword: More Than Just "Patrol"

The Wall Street Journal crossword, known for its challenging clues and sophisticated wordplay, often uses common phrases in unexpected ways. One such example is the clue "Cops' duty," which might seem straightforward at first glance, but often leads to more than just the simple answer "PATROL." Let's delve into this, exploring various potential solutions based on crossword clues found on sites like CrosswordFiend (while giving proper attribution, of course).

Understanding the Nuances of "Cops' Duty"

While "PATROL" is a valid and common answer, the WSJ crossword frequently pushes solvers to think beyond the obvious. The ambiguity of "duty" allows for a broader range of possibilities. A cop's duty isn't limited to patrolling streets; it encompasses various tasks. This opens the door to more creative and challenging clues.

Examples from CrosswordFiend and Beyond (with attribution):

While CrosswordFiend itself doesn't directly provide a database of specific WSJ clues, it serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the general principles behind crossword construction. The site showcases countless examples of clever wordplay and alternative answers for similar clues. By analyzing its question/answer database, we can infer the types of answers that might be used for "Cops' duty":

• Direct & Obvious: The most straightforward answer, as mentioned, is PATROL. This works because it's a core function of police work.

• More Nuanced Options: Depending on the crossword's difficulty and theme, the answer could be something like INVESTIGATION, ARREST, or even INTERROGATION. These represent other crucial aspects of a police officer's responsibilities.

• Figurative Language: The crossword might even use figurative language to create a more challenging clue. For instance, a clue might hint at the meticulous record-keeping required, leading to an answer like PAPERWORK (a less glamorous, but very real, part of the job!).

Why the WSJ Uses Ambiguous Clues:

The WSJ crossword's difficulty stems from its use of ambiguous language and unexpected wordplay. By using clues like "Cops' duty," the puzzle-makers force solvers to consider multiple interpretations and to think laterally. This creates a more engaging and rewarding experience for experienced crossword enthusiasts.

Tips for Solving Clues Like "Cops' Duty":

• Consider the Crosswords: The intersecting words offer vital clues. Pay close attention to the letters already filled in.
• Think Beyond the Obvious: Don't settle for the first answer that comes to mind. Explore different possibilities, considering the various facets of police work.
• Understand Wordplay: The WSJ often uses puns, double meanings, and other forms of wordplay. Look for these subtle hints.
• Use Reference Materials (Sparingly): In tougher situations, a dictionary or thesaurus can help broaden your vocabulary and consider synonyms for related terms.

Conclusion:

The clue "Cops' duty" in the WSJ crossword exemplifies the puzzle's challenging yet rewarding nature. While "PATROL" is a plausible answer, the ambiguity of the clue allows for other creative solutions that reflect the complexity of police work. By understanding the subtleties of language and the puzzle-maker's intentions, solvers can unlock the answers and enhance their crossword-solving skills. Remember to always consult the crossword itself for the most accurate solution!