The Everyman crossword, a staple of the British newspaper The Observer, has been a beloved fixture for decades, offering a gentle yet challenging introduction to the world of cryptic puzzles. Known for its relatively accessible clues and a focus on general knowledge, the Everyman has cultivated a loyal following of solvers of all levels.
A Gentle Onramp to Cryptic Crosswords
Unlike some of the more notoriously difficult cryptic crosswords, the Everyman is often described as “user-friendly.” It maintains a balance between accessibility and challenge, making it ideal for beginners while still offering a rewarding experience for more seasoned solvers.
Key Characteristics:
Clueing Style: Everyman clues are generally considered to be fair and approachable. They often rely on a blend of wordplay techniques, including anagrams, charades, double definitions, and cryptic definitions.
Focus on General Knowledge: The puzzles draw on a wide range of general knowledge, from literature and history to science and popular culture.
Humor and Wordplay: Many Everyman clues incorporate a touch of humor or witty wordplay, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the solving experience.
Tips for Solving the Everyman
Start with the Downs: Often, the down clues are easier to solve, providing a foothold to tackle the across clues.
Look for Anagrams: Many clues involve anagrams, so be on the lookout for words that can be rearranged to form the answer.
Check for Double Definitions: Some clues offer two definitions for the same word.
Don’t Be Afraid to Guess: If you’re stuck, try to make an educated guess based on the available letters.
Use a Dictionary: A good dictionary can be a valuable resource for finding obscure words and verifying definitions.
Enjoy the Process: The Everyman crossword is meant to be an enjoyable experience. Don’t get frustrated if you get stuck. Take a break and come back to it later.
The Legacy of the Everyman
The Everyman crossword has played a significant role in introducing countless individuals to the world of cryptic puzzles. Its accessible style and engaging clues have made it a beloved institution for crossword enthusiasts of all levels.
Beyond the Grid: The Everyman Community
The Everyman crossword has also fostered a strong community of solvers. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to the puzzle provide a platform for discussion, hints, and camaraderie among solvers.
Common Features and Themes
The Everyman crossword is known for incorporating specific elements that add an extra layer of enjoyment:
Rhyming Pairs: Clues often include answers that form rhyming pairs, adding a poetic touch to the puzzle.
First Letters Clue: Some puzzles feature clues where the first letters of certain words spell out a relevant word or phrase, providing an additional solving dimension.
Self-Referential Clues: Occasionally, clues may refer to the puzzle itself or to the setter, creating a meta-solving experience.
These features not only enhance the solving experience but also showcase the setter’s creativity and attention to detail.
Tips for Solving the Everyman Crossword
To tackle the Everyman crossword effectively, consider the following strategies:
Start with the Easy Clues: Begin by solving the straightforward clues to build a foundation of answers, which can assist in deciphering the more challenging ones.
Look for Anagrams: Anagram clues are common; identifying and solving them can provide key answers that unlock other parts of the puzzle.
Pay Attention to Wordplay Indicators: Words like “perhaps,” “maybe,” or “say” often signal a definition by example, while words like “about” or “around” may indicate containment.
Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words have multiple definitions; be open to less common meanings that might fit the clue.
Use the Crossword Community: Engaging with online forums and blogs, such as Fifteensquared, can provide insights and explanations for tricky clues.
The Everyman Crossword in Popular Culture
The Everyman crossword’s influence extends beyond its regular solvers. It has been featured in various publications and has inspired collections, such as Everyman Crosswords: 100 Crosswords from the Observer, which compiles some of the best puzzles from the series. This collection serves as a testament to the puzzle’s enduring popularity and its role in the crossword community.
FAQs
What is the Everyman crossword?
The Everyman crossword is a weekly cryptic puzzle published in The Observer, known for its accessible yet challenging clues, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned solvers.
Who sets the Everyman crossword?
Over the years, the Everyman crossword has had several setters. As of recent information, the setter is Alan Connor, who aims to maintain a gentle and satisfying solving experience.
What are the unique features of the Everyman crossword?
The Everyman crossword often includes:
Rhyming pairs: Answers that rhyme, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
Self-referential clues: Clues that refer to the puzzle itself or the setter.
First letters clues: Clues where the initial letters spell out a word or phrase.
These elements contribute to the puzzle’s distinctive charm.
How can I improve my skills in solving the Everyman crossword?
To enhance your solving abilities:
Start with straightforward clues: Build confidence by solving easier clues first.
Learn common cryptic devices: Familiarize yourself with anagrams, homophones, and abbreviations.
Practice regularly: Consistency helps in recognizing patterns and clue types.
Engage with the community: Participate in forums like Fifteensquared to discuss and learn from fellow solvers.
Where can I find solutions and discussions about the Everyman crossword?
Detailed analyses and solutions are available on Fifteensquared, where enthusiasts discuss each puzzle extensively.
Is the Everyman crossword suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Everyman crossword is designed to be accessible, making it an excellent starting point for those new to cryptic crosswords. Its consistent style and moderate difficulty provide a gentle introduction to cryptic solving.
How can I access the Everyman crossword?
The Everyman crossword is published in the print edition of The Observer every Sunday and is also available online through The Guardian’s website.
Are there any collections of past Everyman crosswords?
Yes, collections such as Everyman Crosswords: 100 Crosswords from The Observer compile some of the best puzzles from the series, offering solvers a chance to enjoy past crosswords.
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