#172026-11-02·Double Definition

Cryptic Clue #17

Use the 4 progressive hint tiers below or solve cleanly with 0 hints!

#17⭐ Flawless

Difficulty:

Abandon dry wasteland(6)

Setter: The Dualist

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Hints:

Post-Solve Analysis

Setter's Editorial Walkthrough

Setter: The Dualist

1. Tripartite Structural Breakdown

Straight Definition (Final Word)dry wastelandDictionary synonym of target solution

Wordplay Indicator (Double Definition)None (Double Definition)Instructs the operation

Fodder & EnumerationDESERT (to forsake/abandon) and DESERT (arid region) (6)Yields exactly 6 letters

2. Wordplay Equation

Definition 1 (Abandon) + Definition 2 (Dry wasteland) = DESERT

3. Mechanics & Setter Deception

To DESERT someone is to abandon them, while a DESERT is a dry wasteland.

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Clue #17 Questions & Answers

Q1.What is the straight definition in Clue #17?▼

The straight definition is "dry wasteland", placed at the very end of the clue under the Extreme Placement Rule.

Q2.How does the wordplay in Clue #17 work?▼

This is a classic Double Definition clue. The equation is: Definition 1 (Abandon) + Definition 2 (Dry wasteland) = DESERT. To DESERT someone is to abandon them, while a DESERT is a dry wasteland.

Q3.What is the significance of the enumeration (6)?▼

The enumeration (6) signifies that the target solution consists of exactly 6 letters.

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