workmans bar

Sandra Almird

2 min read

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02-01-2025

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Decoding the "Workman's Bar": A Deep Dive into Crossword Clues

The phrase "workman's bar" frequently appears in crossword puzzles, often as a cryptic clue. While seemingly straightforward, its solution requires understanding the wordplay inherent in cryptic clues. Let's explore this common crossword entry, drawing on insights from crosswordfiend.com (while acknowledging their contributions without directly quoting specific users or puzzles – I'm synthesizing information found on the site, not directly quoting).

What is a "Workman's Bar"?

In most crossword contexts, "workman's bar" isn't a literal bar frequented by construction workers. Instead, it's a cryptic clue leading to the answer PUB. The wordplay hinges on the double meaning of "bar":

• Bar (noun): A place serving alcoholic drinks. This is the more common meaning and the intended solution within the crossword context.
• Bar (noun): A rod or stripe, often associated with tools or equipment a workman might use. This is the less common meaning, used to create the wordplay in the clue.

How is the clue constructed?

A typical clue might use wordplay like this: "Workman's bar (5)" The "(5)" indicates the answer has five letters. The solver needs to recognize that "workman's" is a misdirection, leading them away from tools and towards the idea of a place a workman might frequent for a drink. More complex clues might involve anagrams or other cryptic devices connected to "bar" to further disguise the solution.

Example Clues and Solutions (Hypothetical):

Here are some hypothetical crossword clues incorporating "workman's bar" to illustrate different clue construction:

• Clue: "Workman's bar, possibly needing a refill (5)" Solution: PUB. (This clue uses a simple definition with a secondary, less direct definition).

• Clue: "Tool bar, oddly enough, is for relaxation (5)" Solution: PUB. (This clue uses a more complex wordplay which involves selecting only the odd letters from the words "Tool Bar" which then becomes “PUB”. This utilizes anagramming techniques to disguise the answer).

• Clue: "Builder's bar, say (5)" Solution: PUB. (This relies on the solver's general knowledge: builders might frequent a pub)

Beyond the Basic Clue:

The beauty of cryptic crosswords lies in their deceptive simplicity. While "workman's bar" = "PUB" is a fairly common and understandable solution, the way it's presented in the clue can be remarkably varied. Mastering cryptic crosswords demands recognizing these subtle nuances of wordplay and understanding how different clues can lead to the same answer.

Improving Your Cryptic Crossword Skills:

To become better at solving clues like "workman's bar," focus on:

• Vocabulary: Expand your knowledge of synonyms and double meanings.
• Wordplay Techniques: Familiarize yourself with common cryptic techniques like anagrams, hidden words, and reversals.
• Practice: The more crosswords you solve, the better you'll become at spotting wordplay and identifying solutions.

By combining knowledge gleaned from sites like crosswordfiend.com with consistent practice, you'll quickly become proficient in cracking even the most challenging crossword clues, including those utilizing the deceptively simple "workman's bar."