lecture halls wsj crossword

Sandra Almird

2 min read

·

02-01-2025

12

0

Share

The Wall Street Journal crossword, known for its challenging clues, often incorporates clever wordplay. Recently, the clue "Lecture halls" stumped many solvers. Let's delve into this, exploring the answer and learning some helpful techniques for tackling similar cryptic clues in the future. This article will analyze the clue and provide additional context not readily available on sites like CrosswordFiend (though we'll acknowledge their invaluable contribution to crossword solving!).

The Clue: "Lecture halls"

While this might seem straightforward at first glance, the WSJ crossword frequently utilizes wordplay beyond a simple definition. The solution isn't just a single word describing a lecture hall – it requires a more lateral approach.

The Answer (as found on CrosswordFiend and other sources): AMPHIS

The answer is AMPHIS. This is likely a reference to amphitheaters, which historically served as spaces for lectures and public gatherings, similar to modern lecture halls. CrosswordFiend's database would have undoubtedly listed this solution, alongside potential cross-referencing clues and associated words.

Why This Clue is Tricky

The difficulty arises from the subtle shift in meaning. The clue doesn't directly say "places like lecture halls," but rather uses "lecture halls" as a metaphorical description of the answer. This requires the solver to think beyond the immediately obvious definition of "lecture hall" and consider its historical and architectural equivalents.

Solving Strategies for Similar Clues

• Think outside the box: Don't limit yourself to the most immediate definition of the clue. Consider synonyms, related concepts, and historical contexts.
• Look for wordplay: WSJ crosswords often utilize puns, anagrams, or other forms of wordplay. Be alert for any hints of this within the clue's wording.
• Consider the length: The number of letters in the answer is a crucial piece of information. This helps to narrow down your options.
• Use cross-references: Pay close attention to the intersecting words in your crossword grid. They can provide valuable clues to the solution.
• Leverage online resources: Websites like CrosswordFiend are invaluable resources. They offer databases of past solutions and can aid in identifying potential answers based on the clue's wording and letter count. However, always try to solve the puzzle on your own first to maximize the mental workout!

Expanding on Amphitheaters:

While amphitheaters are commonly associated with gladiatorial combats in Roman times, it's important to remember their versatility. They served various purposes, including public speeches, theatrical performances, and even religious ceremonies. Therefore, linking them to "lecture halls" isn't a complete stretch – they share a common characteristic of being large, open spaces designed for large audiences.

Conclusion

Solving cryptic crosswords, particularly those from prestigious publications like the Wall Street Journal, requires a blend of linguistic skills, lateral thinking, and resourcefulness. The "Lecture halls" clue highlights the need to look beyond the surface meaning and consider the broader context. Utilizing resources like CrosswordFiend can be beneficial, but developing your own problem-solving skills remains key to mastering this challenging but rewarding pastime. Remember to always credit your sources, as we have done here, and enjoy the journey of discovery!