Cryptic Mini #1: The Core
10 clues, fully checked intersections, and zero filler. Can you solve it in under 3 minutes?
Cryptic Mini #1: The Core
Tip: Press Space or click cell to toggle Across / Down.
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Editorial Wordplay Breakdown (Cryptic Mini #1: The Core)
Examine the clue mechanics, indicator triggers, and equations for all 10 clues.
Across Clues (5)
"Shaken" indicates an anagram of EARTH, defining "emotional center" (HEART).
Removing the first letter ("loses head") from MEMBER produces EMBER ("Glowing coal").
A + BUS (passenger vehicle) + E (East) spells ABUSE ("Mistreat").
"Discovered in" reveals the letters R-E-S-I-N concealed in "puRE SINger", meaning "Sticky sap".
T (first letter of Town) + RENT (leased) gives TRENT, the English river.
Down Clues (5)
HEAR (perceive sound) + T (initial letter of Tone) = HEART (courage/mettle).
Removing the first letter ("losing leader") from REMEMBER produces EMBER ("glowing coal").
A + B (bachelor) + USE (consumption) spells ABUSE ("Mistreat").
Concealed within "raRE SINgle" is RESIN, meaning natural adhesive.
T (beginning of Territory) + RENT (leased) = TRENT, the famous British stream.
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