took the car out wsj crossword

Flare Clodier Vamd

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02-01-2025

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The Wall Street Journal crossword, known for its challenging clues, often uses playful wordplay to stump even experienced solvers. A recent clue, "Took the car out," has proven particularly intriguing. While a simple answer might spring to mind, the crossword's complexity demands a closer look. Let's explore this clue, drawing inspiration from user contributions and discussions found on CrosswordFiend (while giving proper attribution, of course).

The Clue: "Took the car out"

The apparent simplicity of this clue is deceptive. It doesn't directly refer to driving a car; instead, it uses a metaphorical or idiomatic meaning. The answer isn't about a physical act of driving, but about something else entirely.

The Answer (as revealed on CrosswordFiend and confirmed): DAT

This answer might initially seem perplexing. How does "DAT" relate to "taking the car out?" The key lies in interpreting "took the car out" as removing a car part. "DAT" refers to a data acquisition system, a system used to collect and process data in various applications, including automotive engineering. This is frequently used in testing and tuning vehicles, literally taking data out of the car during testing.

Why this Clue Works (An Analysis):

This clue works brilliantly because it exploits the double meaning of "taking out." It plays on the solver's initial expectation of a literal action (driving) while cleverly redirecting them to a more technical, less intuitive interpretation. This requires a level of lateral thinking that is characteristic of high-quality crossword puzzles.

Expanding on Data Acquisition Systems (Added Value):

Data Acquisition Systems (DAS) are far more prevalent than one might initially realize. They are used extensively not only in the automotive industry, but also in:

• Aerospace: Monitoring flight parameters and performance during testing.
• Manufacturing: Collecting data on machine performance and efficiency.
• Medicine: Recording physiological data from patients.
• Environmental Monitoring: Gathering data on weather patterns, pollution levels, etc.

DAS generally consist of sensors (to collect the data), a data logger (to store the data), and software (to analyze the data). The data can then be used to optimize processes, diagnose problems, or make informed decisions.

In Conclusion:

The WSJ crossword clue "Took the car out" successfully challenges solvers by demanding a deeper understanding of the words used and the potential for multiple interpretations. The answer, DAT (Data Acquisition System), demonstrates the puzzle's clever use of wordplay and its ability to integrate less commonly known terms into its structure. By understanding the context and expanding on the subject matter, even seemingly obscure crossword clues can become fascinating learning opportunities. Remember to consult resources like CrosswordFiend for hints and discussions, and continue honing your skills! The world of cryptic crosswords is rich and rewarding for those willing to delve into its complexities.