come to the surface wsj crossword

Flare Clodier Vamd

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02-01-2025

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The phrase "come to the surface" often appears in crossword clues, frequently as a cryptic way to indicate the answer "RISE." This article will delve into why this works, explore variations on the clue, and provide examples to help you conquer future crossword puzzles. We’ll be drawing upon the wisdom of the crossword community, particularly insights gleaned from CrosswordFiend (although unfortunately, specific user comments aren't directly quotable in a way that preserves attribution without substantial effort to contact individual contributors). Many solvers have contributed to this shared understanding of common crossword clue patterns.

Why "Come to the Surface" Clues "RISE"?

The connection between "come to the surface" and "RISE" is inherently semantic. Something that rises literally comes to the surface. This is a straightforward, almost literal, wordplay. However, the beauty of crossword clues is that they often employ figurative language as well. Think about these scenarios:

• Literal: A submarine rises to the surface of the ocean.
• Figurative: A hidden truth rises to the surface of a conversation. A buried memory rises to the surface of the mind.

Therefore, clues using "come to the surface" effectively utilize both the literal and figurative meanings of rising. The solver is encouraged to consider the context of the clue and the surrounding answers to determine the best fit.

Variations and Examples:

Crossword constructors are masters of subtlety and misdirection. While "come to the surface" is a common phrasing, expect variations:

• "Bubble to the surface": This maintains the visual imagery of something rising from below.
• "Appear on the surface": This emphasizes the act of becoming visible.
• "Break the surface": This suggests a more forceful, perhaps sudden, emergence.

Let's illustrate with hypothetical examples (remember, these are not verbatim from any particular CrosswordFiend post, but reflect common clue styles):

• Clue: What a submerged treasure might do? Answer: RISE
• Clue: Secrets that finally become known Answer: RISE
• Clue: The act of a hot air balloon increasing altitude Answer: RISE

In each case, the answer "RISE" accurately fits the clue's context, even though the phrasing changes slightly.

Improving Your Crossword Solving Skills:

To become a better crossword solver, actively look for these types of thematic clues. Familiarize yourself with common crossword techniques, including anagrams, hidden words, and reversals. Pay attention to the overall puzzle theme. This context can often help decipher seemingly ambiguous clues.

Finally, don't be afraid to guess and check. If you have a few possible answers, try them out in the grid. The constraints of the crossword puzzle often reveal the correct solution.

Conclusion:

The clue "come to the surface" or its variations almost always point to the answer "RISE." Understanding this recurring pattern enhances your crossword-solving skills. By combining this knowledge with an awareness of common crossword techniques and a strategic approach to solving, you'll become better equipped to tackle even the most challenging puzzles. Remember that consistent practice and attention to the nuances of language are key to crossword mastery.