December 7, 2023 – Big Dave's Crossword Blog

Toughie 3179

Toughie No 3179 by Firefly
Hints and tips by Gazza

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BD Rating – Difficulty ***Enjoyment ***

There’s a theme in today’s puzzle. All the definitions shown as ‘8’ in the clues are examples of the 8d answer when it’s split 4,4. Clever!

Thanks to Firefly for the entertainment.… Continue reading

DT 30477

Daily Telegraph Cryptic No 30,477
Hints and tips by Shabbo

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BD Rating – Difficulty ***Enjoyment ***


Our more experienced solvers will know the identity of our setter from his use of “sweetheart” in 17a. Ximenean sticklers will tell you that sweetheart cannot represent E, in much the same way as Maidenhead cannot represent M, but Libertarians will say that the intent is clear and therefore it is acceptable.… Continue reading