0xharib/xword1 · Datasets at Hugging Face

instruction stringclasses 1 value	input stringlengths 16 143	output stringlengths 40 1.17k
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Kid holding bat awkwardly before start of league game (8)	### Answer: FOOTBALL ### Explanation: Definition: game FOOL(not the noun, but the verb, to fool,kid around) containing(holding) {anagram of(awkwardly) BAT placed before(before) L(initial letter,start of "league")}
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Double-cross rear admiral initially (and ultimately navy) after wager (6)	### Answer: BETRAY ### Explanation: Definition: Double-cross {RA(first letters,initially of "rear" & "admiral") plus(and) Y(last letter,ultimately of "navy")} placed after(after) BET(wager)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Pretty good job for milkman delivering to entertainment venue (10)	### Answer: FAIRGROUND ### Explanation: Definition: entertainment venue FAIR(pretty) G($$g$$ood) ROUND(as in "do the milk round",the job that the delivering milkman does, which has become the subject of countless jokes (entries for best milkman joke on a postcard please!)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Letter for Member of Parliament's solicitor (4)	### Answer: PIMP ### Explanation: Definition: solicitor PI(Greek letter) MP($$M$$ember of $$P$$arliament). Fortunately Pan uses "letter" instead of "relationship" as Chifonie did in last Thursday's Guardian Cryptic leading to multiple comments on it alone. (BTW, for those interested, tupu and I had 2 late posts on it, which some might not have seen.) Defn: This "solicitor" is not the person in a dark suit who tries to get you out of trouble with the court, but the one in flashy gear who tries to get you into trouble. A solicitor for the oldest profession, making his/her the second oldest profession, surely.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Deny any connection with pig tucking into first half of meal (6)	### Answer: DISOWN ### Explanation: Definition: Deny any connection SOW(pig of the female sex) contained in(tucking into) DIN(first 3 letters,first half of "dinner",meal)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Observe sudden rush to receive shock treatment (8)	### Answer: SPECTATE ### Explanation: Definition: Observe SPATE(a sudden rush,outpouring,flood,downpour) containing(to receive) ECT(outmoded, I hope, shock treatment,medically called $$e$$lectro$$c$$onvulsive $$t$$reatment) Defn: A word back-formed from the noun "spectator" – not sure if it's an Americanism, or home-grown in England. Doesn't quite roll easily off my tongue.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Neatly trim fractured cranium with end of knife (8)	### Answer: MANICURE ### Explanation: Definition: Neatly trim Anagram of(fractured) CRANIUM plus(with) E(last letter,end of "knife") Defn: "Trim" as a verb.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Swelling inside crusty eyelid (4)	### Answer: STYE ### Explanation: Definition: Swelling inside crusty eyelid Hidden in(inside) cruSTY Eyelid. A nice &lit.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Head of faculty, when admitting dunce's limitations, is blunt (6)	### Answer: DEADEN ### Explanation: Definition: blunt DEAN(head of a university faculty) containing(when admitting) DE(the first and last letters,limitations of "dunce") Defn: "Blunt" as a verb.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Drink in cold picnic baskets? (8)	### Answer: CHAMPERS ### Explanation: Definition: Drink C($$c$$old) HAMPERS(picnic baskets). Nice surface – would have been an &lit if only, "drink" could figure in the wordplay. Defn: Slang for champagne.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Bird going to Chinese woman in order to get pink plant (10)	### Answer: STITCHWORT ### Explanation: Definition: pink plant {TIT(bird) plus(going to) CH($$Ch$$inese, not to be confused with the Swiss ISO code, since China's ISO code is CN) W($$w$$oman)} contained in(in) SORT(to order,arrange) Defn: The pink refers to the family of plants, with flowers that are not necessarily coloured pink. I could also see "pink" as a reference to the Chinese going from bright Communist red to a more capitalist hue.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Short distance initially measured in cubits reckoned outmoded nowadays (6)	### Answer: MICRON ### Explanation: Definition: Short distance First letters,initially of Measured In Cubits Reckoned Outmoded Nowadays Defn: A millionth of a metre, but being replaced ("outmoded nowadays") by its proper name, the micrometre. The ancient cubit, on the other hand, has long been outmoded; a word from the Latin for "elbow" and a length measured from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger (whose?)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Organises a festival involving most sound (6)	### Answer: SAFEST ### Explanation: Definition: most sound Hidden in(involving) organiseS A FESTival
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Carroll's first mad party host goes to buffet with gasbag (10)	### Answer: CHATTERBOX ### Explanation: Definition: gasbag C(initial letter,first of "Carroll") HATTER(reference to the Mad Hatter, party host in "Alice in Wonderland") plus(goes to) BOX(verb, to hit,buffet). Another nice surface as Lewis Carroll was the creator of the Mad Hatter, and with "buffet table" being what you might get at a party, such as the forthcoming K'sDad's Sloggers and Betters Derby Day.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: King's restricted by frightening disfigurement (8)	### Answer: SCARRING ### Explanation: Definition: disfigurement R(from Latin $$R$$ex,king) contained in(restricted by) SCARING(the continuous verb, frightening)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Magnum drained after meal consumed with fellow player (8)	### Answer: TEAMMATE ### Explanation: Definition: fellow player {MM(inner letters removed,drained from the word "magnum") placed after(after) TEA(meal in the afternoon)} plus ATE(consumed)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: They may contain photographs and article on large backsides (6)	### Answer: ALBUMS ### Explanation: Definition: may contain photographs A(the indefinite article) placed before(on, in a down clue) L($$l$$arge) BUMS(backsides, sitting too long on which gives you the epithet "lazy bum" – but wait a minute! Isn't that what I am doing right now? 🙂 )
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Animal to sail off with plant (6)	### Answer: OXALIS ### Explanation: Definition: plant OX(bovine animal) plus anagram of(off) SAIL
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Harry's animal (6)	### Answer: BADGER ### Explanation: Definition: Harry,animal Double defn: 1st: The verb to harry,harrass
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Last of mint put in mushy pea starter (4)	### Answer: PATE ### Explanation: Definition: starter T(last letter of "mint") contained in(put in) anagram of(mushy) PEA. Another nice surface.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: A yacht wrecked in China (6)	### Answer: CATHAY ### Explanation: Definition: China Anagram of(wrecked) A YACHT Defn: A poetic and archaic, former name for China
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Concealed former pupils getting pickled (8)	### Answer: OBSCURED ### Explanation: Definition: Concealed OBS($$o$$ld $$b$$oy$$s$$,former pupils) CURED(being preserved by salting, smoking and the like,getting pickled)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Midday flight is restricted (6)	### Answer: NARROW ### Explanation: Definition: restricted N($$n$$oon,midday) ARROW(flight arrow, a long and light one designed for long-distance shooting)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Pub in awkward place is the high point (8)	### Answer: PINNACLE ### Explanation: Definition: the high point INN(pub) contained in(in) anagram of(awkward) PLACE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Fish experiences having head cut off (4)	### Answer: EELS ### Explanation: Definition: Fish "Feels",experiences without its initial letter,having head cut off
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Whistled to girls having viewing aids (10)	### Answer: SUNGLASSES ### Explanation: Definition: viewing aids SUNG(made a whistling sound, as with a singing kettle or bird) plus(to) LASSES(girls)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: A liking for prophesy about the Parisian (12)	### Answer: PREDILECTION ### Explanation: Definition: A liking PREDICTION(forecast,prophesy) containing(about) LE(the definite article, the, in the native language of a Parisian)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Consider 'er intention in musical arrangement (12)	### Answer: COUNTERPOINT ### Explanation: Definition: musical arrangement COUNT(take into account,consider) 'ER POINT(an aim,purpose,intention) Defn: Music where two or more parts/melodies are simultaneously played, giving a pleasant interaction/contrast.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Distress character reversing jalopy (10)	### Answer: RATTLETRAP ### Explanation: Definition: jalopy RATTLE(to distress,make uncomfortable) TRAP{reversal of(reversing) "part",a character role in a play/story/film}
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Father an art movement (4)	### Answer: DADA ### Explanation: Definition: Father,an art movement Double defn: 1st: Informal term for father,daddy, probably derived from baby talk; and 2nd: An early 20C European and American artistic and literary movement, flouting convention and producing works characterized by nonsense, travesty and incongruity.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Moral tale of a parrot holding the stage (8)	### Answer: ALLEGORY ### Explanation: Definition: Moral tale A LORY(an Australasian parrot) containing(holding) LEG(a part,stage of a sporting contest made up of such legs, that in sum determine the winner)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Opponents notice flag (6)	### Answer: ENSIGN ### Explanation: Definition: flag EN($$E$$ast & $$N$$orth, in partnership with West and South respectively,opponents in bridge notation) SIGN(notice, eg. "Keep Off The Grass" or ….) Defn: A flag,banner used to indicate nationality
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: With composure and cunning embracing oriental girlfriend (8)	### Answer: SEDATELY ### Explanation: Definition: With composure SLY(adjective, cunning) containing(embracing) {E($$e$$astern,oriental) DATE(girlfriend – how many dates before she's your girlfriend?)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Advocate having wife in bed (6)	### Answer: LAWYER ### Explanation: Definition: Advocate W($$w$$ife) contained in(in) LAYER(not the hen, but a thick bed of the same material spread over a surface, sometimes bounded by different layers top and bottom)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Cheat, seduce and disgrace (8)	### Answer: CONTEMPT ### Explanation: Definition: disgrace CON(derived from $$con$$fidence trick,to cheat) TEMPT(lure,persuade gently,seduce)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Ploughman reserves an hour for a novel (8)	### Answer: THRILLER ### Explanation: Definition: a novel TILLER(one who tills the ground,ploughman) containing(reserves) HR(abbrev. for "hour")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Flower carried by Savonarola (4)	### Answer: AVON ### Explanation: Definition: Flower Hidden in(carried by) sAVONarola Defn: There are more than one river,flower named Avon, even in England. I guess the most famous the one is in Warwickshire, because of Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Supply a need for game fellow, good during strike (6,3,3)	### Answer: BRIDGE THE GAP ### Explanation: Definition: Supply a need BRIDGE(the card game) [HE(fellow,masculine chap) G($$g$$ood)] contained in(during) TAP(a blow,strike)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Paul at once prepared fruit (10)	### Answer: CANTALOUPE ### Explanation: Definition: fruit Anagram of(prepared) PAUL AT ONCE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Holiday in secluded spot (6)	### Answer: RECESS ### Explanation: Definition: Holiday,secluded spot Doube defn: 1st: A short/long break, as what Parliament has, presumably for members to take their holidays, and 2nd: Inner area,secluded spot, away from the mainstream, eg. figuratively, the recesses of your mind
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Stylish, clean and young (6)	### Answer: DRESSY ### Explanation: Definition: Stylish DRESS(as in to clean a wound) Y($$y$$oung)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Psychic upset usual partner (12)	### Answer: SUPERNATURAL ### Explanation: Definition: Psychic Anagram of(upset) USUAL PARTNER
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: It shows when working guide's frivolous (5,5)	### Answer: PILOT LIGHT ### Explanation: Definition: It shows when working PILOT(guide,steerer) LIGHT(lightweight,unserious,frivolous)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Laughter or a term embracing it (8)	### Answer: HILARITY ### Explanation: Definition: Laughter HILARY(the spring term at Oxford U, Inns of Court, et al, named after St. Hilarius, Bishop of Poitiers in 4C – I wonder if he was cheerful?) containing(embracing) IT
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Coarse filter surprisingly isn't rare (8)	### Answer: STRAINER ### Explanation: Definition: Coarse filter Anagram of(surprisingly) of ISNT RARE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Greek devours the classics (6)	### Answer: GREATS ### Explanation: Definition: the classics GR($$Gr$$eek, also the ISO code for Greece) EATS(devours)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Leader of thugs, buried in concrete, showing no emotion (6)	### Answer: STOLID ### Explanation: Definition: showing no emotion T(first letter,leader of "thugs") contained in(buried in) SOLID(unyielding,compact,tangible,concrete). Nice surface – image of gang warfare.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Foreign ruler much liked by accountant (4)	### Answer: INCA ### Explanation: Definition: Foreign ruler IN(in fashion,popular,much liked as in the "in-crowd") plus(by) CA($$C$$hartered $$A$$ccountant – a million miles away from that amusing euphemism, turf accountant) Defn: Ruler, or member of the royal family of the South American Inca people and their empire, pre the Spanish conquistadors.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Seek to obtain funds to cover university entrance (6)	### Answer: PURSUE ### Explanation: Definition: Seek to obtain PURSE(metonym for money,funds) containing(to cover) U(first letter,entrance of "university")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Criminals taken in hand by bishops (6)	### Answer: CROOKS ### Explanation: Definition: Criminals Cryptic defn: The word refers to the symbol of pastoral office carried,taken in hand by bishops, a staff with a crook on top (sometimes a cross). Same name and similar appearance to the staff carried by shepherds. So I'm almost sure it arises from the comparable symbolism between the respective "flocks". (Could also be seen as double defn. depending how one sees the rest of the clue.) A nice surface of bishops saving criminals (at least their souls – if they have any).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Doctor in habit of fighting (6)	### Answer: COMBAT ### Explanation: Definition: fighting MB(from Neo-Latin $$M$$edicinae $$B$$accalaureus,Bachelor of Medicine,doctor) contained in(in) COAT(an item of clothing,habit)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Many lads fancy being a success with females (5,3)	### Answer: LADYS MAN ### Explanation: Definition: a success with females Anagram of(fancy) MANY LADS. Lovely surface.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Hot time for wife of Zeus (4)	### Answer: HERA ### Explanation: Definition: wife of Zeus H($$h$$ot) ERA(a long time period)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Remove vital parts of broken tea service (10)	### Answer: EVISCERATE ### Explanation: Definition: Remove vital parts Anagram of(broken) TEA SERVICE Defn: In addition to physical disembowelment, it can also refer figuratively to the work of censors.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Show how devil and saint rank in estimation (11)	### Answer: DEMONSTRATE ### Explanation: Definition: Show how DEMON(devil) ST(abbrev. for saint) RATE(as in "how they rate,rank, in relation to one another, in someone's estimation")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Do see lunch is set out at the correct time (2,8)	### Answer: ON SCHEDULE ### Explanation: Definition: at the correct time Anagram of(set out) DO SEE LUNCH.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Appeal to counsel (4)	### Answer: URGE ### Explanation: Definition: Appeal,to counsel Double defn: 1st: To stimulate, excite or incite; and 2nd: As in "He urged his client to drop the suit". I've chosen the most diverse meanings I could think of, but I may be wrong.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Force to serve port (8)	### Answer: SHANGHAI ### Explanation: Definition: Force to serve,port Double defn. 1st: Use force (or drink or drugs) to kidnap persons to serve on board,crew ships sailing to the Orient, including to the 2nd defn.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Capital A followed by S? (6)	### Answer: ATHENS ### Explanation: Definition: Capital A THEN(followed by) S
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: The slippery slope taken by some sportsmen (3,3)	### Answer: SKI RUN ### Explanation: Definition: The slippery slope taken by some sportsmen Cryptic defn.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: More than one rock group? (6)	### Answer: STONES ### Explanation: Definition: group Cryptic defn. Short name for The Rolling Stones, going-on septuagenarian rockers by now. "Rock" doubles up in the clue.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Cheat to secure point in card game (8)	### Answer: CRIBBAGE ### Explanation: Definition: card game CRIB(cheat by bringing in answers, other illicit aids into an exam, by stealing someone's work, or by just petty thieving) BAG(to get,secure eg. a prize) E($$e$$ast,compass point)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: A loose word for the BBC (6)	### Answer: AUNTIE ### Explanation: Definition: word for the BBC A UNTIE(verb, as in to loose a boat from its moorings) Defn: Nickname,word for that venerable institution, the BBC, sometimes also called "the Beeb" or even "Auntie Beeb"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Director has staff dressed in purple – king or queen coming (8)	### Answer: PRODUCER ### Explanation: Definition: Director ROD(staff,baton) contained in(dressed in) PUCE(a shade of purple) plus(coming) R(abbrev. for king or queen, from Latin $$R$$ex or $$R$$egina respectively) Defn: In former usage, in British theatre, a producer was a stage director. In today's age of specialisation, the director is the operations guy, and the producer is the finance and administration guy.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: He hopes to find you well (6)	### Answer: DOWSER ### Explanation: Definition: He hopes to find you well Cryptic defn. In earlier times, person whom you paid, if you were desperate enough, to find underground water for you, using a divining rod.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Fake ring revealed by youth leader (6)	### Answer: PHONEY ### Explanation: Definition: Fake PHONE(verb, to call,ring on the telephone) plus(revealed by) Y(initial letter,leader of "youth")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Sea air (6)	### Answer: SHANTY ### Explanation: Definition: Sea air Cryptic defn. Song,air that sailors,sea-going personnel sing.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Pretty smart? Quite the reverse (5,6)	### Answer: PLAIN STUPID ### Explanation: Definition: Pretty smart? Quite the reverse Cryptic defn. Antonyms respectively of "pretty", as in "plain Jane', and "smart". Together, a phrase that's the opposite,reverse of "pretty smart".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Service pass (8)	### Answer: OVERHAUL ### Explanation: Definition: Service,pass Double defn. 1st: Verb/noun for a major and thorough service of an engine; and 2nd: Verb, to overtake,pass, say, a vehicle, or a competitor.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Moving about (8)	### Answer: TOUCHING ### Explanation: Definition: Moving,about Double defn. 1st: Appealing to your emotions,moving; and 2nd: Refering to,about a subject or topic, eg. "he gave a speech touching on the government's education policy"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Moves slowly in unfinished game on board (6)	### Answer: INCHES ### Explanation: Definition: Moves slowly IN CHES(game on board,"chess" without its last letter,unfinished). Nice surface.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: They may be after estate – amen! (6)	### Answer: AGENTS ### Explanation: Definition: They may be after estate A GENTS("amen" split into "a" and "men",gents) Defn: Literally coming after "estate" in the phrase "estate agents" and figuratively on the lookout for,after estate,property they can manage/market for the owners. Nice surface.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Open prison was adequate (6)	### Answer: CANDID ### Explanation: Definition: Open CAN(prison,jail) DID(past tense of is sufficient,adequate as in "one drink will do me fine"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Raises new taxes, accepting pound (6)	### Answer: EXALTS ### Explanation: Definition: Raises Anagram of(new) TAXES containing(accepting) L(from Latin $$L$$ibra, £, symbol for the pound sterling)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Conductor of opera with Mimi's new maiden replaced (9)	### Answer: TOSCANINI ### Explanation: Definition: Conductor TOSCA(the opera by Puccini) NINI(from another Puccini opera, "Mimi" with "m",$$m$$aiden replaced by(replaced) "n",$$n$$ew – to fit, both "m"s are replaced, though not explicitly stated) Defn: Arturo, 1867-1957, Italian conductor.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Astonished to find silver on silverback, perhaps (5)	### Answer: AGAPE ### Explanation: Definition: Astonished AG(in chemistry, symbol for silver from Latin "$$a$$r$$g$$entum") APE(an example,perhaps of which is the silverback gorilla). Nice surface.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Parrots smuggled in rear of motor vehicles (7)	### Answer: LORRIES ### Explanation: Definition: vehicles LORIS(Australasian parrots) containing(smuggled in) R(last letter,rear of "motor"). "Motor" could be considered as doubling up in definition and wordplay. Another nice surface
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Fleet set forth (7)	### Answer: EXPRESS ### Explanation: Definition: Fleet,set forth Double defn. 1st: Adjective, fast,express; and 2nd: Verb, to elucidate,say so.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Assume consent is overridden (3)	### Answer: DON ### Explanation: Definition: Assume Reversal of(is overridden) "nod",consent.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Pour egg on snow (11)	### Answer: PRECIPITATE ### Explanation: Definition: Pour,egg on,snow I think it's a triple defn. 1st: Verb, as in "to rain,pour"; 2nd: Verb, to cause to happen, as in "to precipitate an action"; 3rd: Noun, that which falls, eg. snow. I spent a long time trying to work it out as a cryptic clue, then a cryptic definition, then a double definition, and can only conclude (rightfully I hope) that it's a triple definition.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Glue shampoo lid into top of head (5)	### Answer: PASTE ### Explanation: Definition: Glue S(first letter,lid of "shampoo") contained in(into) PATE(crown,top of head)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Odd characters in skiing trip (3)	### Answer: SIN ### Explanation: Definition: trip The first, second & third letters,odd characters in "skiing" Defn: Verb or noun of "to stumble,trip,make an error" – which if serious enough, could constitute a sin, I guess.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Threaten disgrace (5)	### Answer: LOWER ### Explanation: Definition: Threaten,disgrace Double defn. 1st: To menace,threaten, eg. the sky or weather when it's going to storm; and 2nd: To bring down in standing or stature,to humble,to disgrace.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Square corners supply hard puzzles (5,6)	### Answer: RIGHT ANGLES ### Explanation: Definition: Square corners RIG(to provide,supply with equipment, etc.) H($$h$$ard) TANGLES(situations which are confused and confusing, and can therefore be called puzzles – not to be confused with crosswords which only try to be confusing)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Unseaworthy vessel's infection concealed presence of uranium (3)	### Answer: TUB ### Explanation: Definition: Unseaworthy vessel TB(abbrev. for $$t$$u$$b$$ercolosis, an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, largely thought to be eradicated by mass vaccination, and antibiotics, but with some evidence of new strains resistant to those antibiotics) *containing*(concealed presence of) U(in chemistry, symbol for $$u$$ranium)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: In hearing, give others a going over (7)	### Answer: EARSHOT ### Explanation: Definition: In hearing Anagram of(going over) OTHERS A. Nice misdirection towards a homophone.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Way to get a gross litre of pastry (7)	### Answer: STRUDEL ### Explanation: Definition: pastry ST(abbrev. for street,way) plus(to get) RUDE(unrefined,gross) L(abbrev. for litre)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Film of queen following woman (5)	### Answer: SHEER ### Explanation: Definition: Film ER(the queen, $$E$$lizabeth $$R$$egina) placed after(following) SHE(pronoun for "woman")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Nut in grease you gobbled up noisily (9)	### Answer: INFATUATE ### Explanation: Definition: Nut IN FAT(lard,grease) plus [U ATE]{homophone(noisily) of "you ate",you gobbled up)} Defn: Noun for someone who is infatuated with someone/something, in other words a nut, crazy (not literally) about that one/thing.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Impassive as bone is set in concrete (6)	### Answer: STOLID ### Explanation: Definition: Impassive T(as in T-bone, a large steak with a bone shaped like a "T" running through it – as an aside, a contemporary meaning of T-bone is a vehicle crash where the wreckage is shaped like a "T", one of the more lethal types of crashes)* contained in*(is set in) SOLID(hard and firm,concrete)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Underwear for musicians? (1-7)	### Answer: G-STRINGS ### Explanation: Definition: Underwear Cryptic defn. I'd like to know how the lowest string on the violin became associated with underwear. The association of the G-string with strippers, and the perhaps disreputable overtone, is now overcome by calling it the "thong".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Revolting pimp steals manuscript (10)	### Answer: PALIMPSEST ### Explanation: Definition: manuscript Anagram of(revolting) PIMP STEALS Defn: A parchment with writing, which could be a manuscript, but in particular a palimpsest is one where previous writing has been erased to make way for the new writing. An ancient example of recycling.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Appreciates where archaeologists work (4)	### Answer: DIGS ### Explanation: Definition: Appreciates,where archaeologists work Double defn.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Reverse network grids oddly broadcast beeps, perhaps (4,6)	### Answer: TIME SIGNAL ### Explanation: Definition: beeps, perhaps Reversal of(reverse) [LAN(abbrev. for local area network, where computers within a limited area are linked) GIS(first, third & fifth letters,oddly of "grids") EMIT(issue,broadcast)] Defn: Eg. "At the beep/tone, the time will be …."
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Find fault with entry missing from woodwork (4)	### Answer: CARP ### Explanation: Definition: Find fault "Carpentry",woodwork without,missing "entry"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Army arrived first in this, secretly (6)	### Answer: CAMERA ### Explanation: Definition: in this, secretly CAME(arrived) placed before(first) RA(abbrev. of $$R$$oyal $$A$$rtillery, branch of the British army) Defn: "In camera", Neo-Latin for "in the chamber", ie. in the privacy,secretly perhaps, of a judge's chamber, as opposed to "in open court".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Soldiers curse their clothes (8)	### Answer: MENSWEAR ### Explanation: Definition: their clothes MEN(soldiers) SWEAR(curse)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Filmmaker to sensationalise hollow admission by scientist (10)	### Answer: EISENSTEIN ### Explanation: Definition: Filmmaker SE("sensationalise" without its inner letters,hollow) contained in(admission by) EINSTEIN(Albert, scientist of E=mc2 fame) Defn: Sergei, 1898-1948, pioneering Soviet film director,filmmaker.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Ornament would suit taller build (10)	### Answer: ILLUSTRATE ### Explanation: Definition: Ornament Anagram of(build) SUIT TALLER. Defn: Verb, I suppose when one illustrates text with, well, illustrations, one is ornamenting it.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Irregular verb nearly split by definition (8)	### Answer: PERVERSE ### Explanation: Definition: Irregular VER("verb" without its last letter,nearly) contained in(split) PER SE(Latin for "by itself",inherently defined,without reference to extrinsic circumstances/factors – by definition, I suppose) Defn: Deliberately deviating from what is good or proper. I suppose that would be "irregular".

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Kid holding bat awkwardly before start of league game (8)

### Answer: FOOTBALL ### Explanation: Definition: game FOOL(not the noun, but the verb, to fool,kid around) **containing**(holding) {**anagram of**(awkwardly) BAT **placed before**(before) L(initial letter,start of "league")}

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Double-cross rear admiral initially (and ultimately navy) after wager (6)

### Answer: BETRAY ### Explanation: Definition: Double-cross {RA(first letters,initially of "rear" & "admiral") **plus**(and) Y(last letter,ultimately of "navy")} **placed after**(after) BET(wager)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Pretty good job for milkman delivering to entertainment venue (10)

### Answer: FAIRGROUND ### Explanation: Definition: entertainment venue FAIR(pretty) G($$g$$ood) ROUND(as in "do the milk round",the job that the delivering milkman does, which has become the subject of countless jokes (entries for best milkman joke on a postcard please!)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Letter for Member of Parliament's solicitor (4)

### Answer: PIMP ### Explanation: Definition: solicitor PI(Greek letter) MP($$M$$ember of $$P$$arliament). Fortunately Pan uses "letter" instead of "relationship" as Chifonie did in last Thursday's Guardian Cryptic leading to multiple comments on it alone. (BTW, for those interested, tupu and I had 2 late posts on it, which some might not have seen.) Defn: This "solicitor" is not the person in a dark suit who tries to get you out of trouble with the court, but the one in flashy gear who tries to get you into trouble. A solicitor for the oldest profession, making his/her the second oldest profession, surely.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Deny any connection with pig tucking into first half of meal (6)

### Answer: DISOWN ### Explanation: Definition: Deny any connection SOW(pig of the female sex) **contained in**(tucking into) DIN(first 3 letters,first half of "dinner",meal)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Observe sudden rush to receive shock treatment (8)

### Answer: SPECTATE ### Explanation: Definition: Observe SPATE(a sudden rush,outpouring,flood,downpour) **containing**(to receive) ECT(outmoded, I hope, shock treatment,medically called $$e$$lectro$$c$$onvulsive $$t$$reatment) Defn: A word back-formed from the noun "spectator" – not sure if it's an Americanism, or home-grown in England. Doesn't quite roll easily off my tongue.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Neatly trim fractured cranium with end of knife (8)

### Answer: MANICURE ### Explanation: Definition: Neatly trim **Anagram of**(fractured) CRANIUM **plus**(with) E(last letter,end of "knife") Defn: "Trim" as a verb.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Swelling inside crusty eyelid (4)

### Answer: STYE ### Explanation: Definition: Swelling inside crusty eyelid **Hidden in**(inside) cruSTY Eyelid. A nice &lit.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Head of faculty, when admitting dunce's limitations, is blunt (6)

### Answer: DEADEN ### Explanation: Definition: blunt DEAN(head of a university faculty) **containing**(when admitting) DE(the first and last letters,limitations of "dunce") Defn: "Blunt" as a verb.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Drink in cold picnic baskets? (8)

### Answer: CHAMPERS ### Explanation: Definition: Drink C($$c$$old) HAMPERS(picnic baskets). Nice surface – would have been an &lit if only, "drink" could figure in the wordplay. Defn: Slang for champagne.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Bird going to Chinese woman in order to get pink plant (10)

### Answer: STITCHWORT ### Explanation: Definition: pink plant {TIT(bird) **plus**(going to) CH($$Ch$$inese, not to be confused with the Swiss ISO code, since China's ISO code is CN) W($$w$$oman)} **contained in**(in) SORT(to order,arrange) Defn: The pink refers to the family of plants, with flowers that are not necessarily coloured pink. I could also see "pink" as a reference to the Chinese going from bright Communist red to a more capitalist hue.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Short distance initially measured in cubits reckoned outmoded nowadays (6)

### Answer: MICRON ### Explanation: Definition: Short distance First letters,initially of Measured In Cubits Reckoned Outmoded Nowadays Defn: A millionth of a metre, but being replaced ("outmoded nowadays") by its proper name, the micrometre. The ancient cubit, on the other hand, has long been outmoded; a word from the Latin for "elbow" and a length measured from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger (whose?)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Organises a festival involving most sound (6)

### Answer: SAFEST ### Explanation: Definition: most sound **Hidden in**(involving) organiseS A FESTival

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Carroll's first mad party host goes to buffet with gasbag (10)

### Answer: CHATTERBOX ### Explanation: Definition: gasbag C(initial letter,first of "Carroll") HATTER(reference to the Mad Hatter, party host in "Alice in Wonderland") **plus**(goes to) BOX(verb, to hit,buffet). Another nice surface as Lewis Carroll was the creator of the Mad Hatter, and with "buffet table" being what you might get at a party, such as the forthcoming K'sDad's Sloggers and Betters Derby Day.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: King's restricted by frightening disfigurement (8)

### Answer: SCARRING ### Explanation: Definition: disfigurement R(from Latin $$R$$ex,king) **contained in**(restricted by) SCARING(the continuous verb, frightening)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Magnum drained after meal consumed with fellow player (8)

### Answer: TEAMMATE ### Explanation: Definition: fellow player {MM(inner letters removed,drained from the word "magnum") **placed after**(after) TEA(meal in the afternoon)} **plus** ATE(consumed)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: They may contain photographs and article on large backsides (6)

### Answer: ALBUMS ### Explanation: Definition: may contain photographs A(the indefinite article) **placed before**(on, in a down clue) L($$l$$arge) BUMS(backsides, sitting too long on which gives you the epithet "lazy bum" – but wait a minute! Isn't that what I am doing right now? 🙂 )

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Animal to sail off with plant (6)

### Answer: OXALIS ### Explanation: Definition: plant OX(bovine animal) **plus** **anagram of**(off) SAIL

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Harry's animal (6)

### Answer: BADGER ### Explanation: Definition: Harry,animal Double defn: 1st: The verb to harry,harrass

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Last of mint put in mushy pea starter (4)

### Answer: PATE ### Explanation: Definition: starter T(last letter of "mint") **contained in**(put in) **anagram of**(mushy) PEA. Another nice surface.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: A yacht wrecked in China (6)

### Answer: CATHAY ### Explanation: Definition: China **Anagram of**(wrecked) A YACHT Defn: A poetic and archaic, former name for China

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Concealed former pupils getting pickled (8)

### Answer: OBSCURED ### Explanation: Definition: Concealed OBS($$o$$ld $$b$$oy$$s$$,former pupils) CURED(being preserved by salting, smoking and the like,getting pickled)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Midday flight is restricted (6)

### Answer: NARROW ### Explanation: Definition: restricted N($$n$$oon,midday) ARROW(flight arrow, a long and light one designed for long-distance shooting)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Pub in awkward place is the high point (8)

### Answer: PINNACLE ### Explanation: Definition: the high point INN(pub) **contained in**(in) **anagram of**(awkward) PLACE

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Fish experiences having head cut off (4)

### Answer: EELS ### Explanation: Definition: Fish "Feels",experiences without its initial letter,having head cut off

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### Clue: Whistled to girls having viewing aids (10)

### Answer: SUNGLASSES ### Explanation: Definition: viewing aids SUNG(made a whistling sound, as with a singing kettle or bird) **plus**(to) LASSES(girls)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: A liking for prophesy about the Parisian (12)

### Answer: PREDILECTION ### Explanation: Definition: A liking PREDICTION(forecast,prophesy) **containing**(about) LE(the definite article, the, in the native language of a Parisian)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Consider 'er intention in musical arrangement (12)

### Answer: COUNTERPOINT ### Explanation: Definition: musical arrangement COUNT(take into account,consider) 'ER POINT(an aim,purpose,intention) Defn: Music where two or more parts/melodies are simultaneously played, giving a pleasant interaction/contrast.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Distress character reversing jalopy (10)

### Answer: RATTLETRAP ### Explanation: Definition: jalopy RATTLE(to distress,make uncomfortable) TRAP{**reversal of**(reversing) "part",a character role in a play/story/film}

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Father an art movement (4)

### Answer: DADA ### Explanation: Definition: Father,an art movement Double defn: 1st: Informal term for father,daddy, probably derived from baby talk; and 2nd: An early 20C European and American artistic and literary movement, flouting convention and producing works characterized by nonsense, travesty and incongruity.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Moral tale of a parrot holding the stage (8)

### Answer: ALLEGORY ### Explanation: Definition: Moral tale A LORY(an Australasian parrot) **containing**(holding) LEG(a part,stage of a sporting contest made up of such legs, that in sum determine the winner)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Opponents notice flag (6)

### Answer: ENSIGN ### Explanation: Definition: flag EN($$E$$ast & $$N$$orth, in partnership with West and South respectively,opponents in bridge notation) SIGN(notice, eg. "Keep Off The Grass" or ….) Defn: A flag,banner used to indicate nationality

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: With composure and cunning embracing oriental girlfriend (8)

### Answer: SEDATELY ### Explanation: Definition: With composure SLY(adjective, cunning) **containing**(embracing) {E($$e$$astern,oriental) DATE(girlfriend – how many dates before she's your girlfriend?)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Advocate having wife in bed (6)

### Answer: LAWYER ### Explanation: Definition: Advocate W($$w$$ife) **contained in**(in) LAYER(not the hen, but a thick bed of the same material spread over a surface, sometimes bounded by different layers top and bottom)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Cheat, seduce and disgrace (8)

### Answer: CONTEMPT ### Explanation: Definition: disgrace CON(derived from $$con$$fidence trick,to cheat) TEMPT(lure,persuade gently,seduce)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Ploughman reserves an hour for a novel (8)

### Answer: THRILLER ### Explanation: Definition: a novel TILLER(one who tills the ground,ploughman) **containing**(reserves) HR(abbrev. for "hour")

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### Clue: Flower carried by Savonarola (4)

### Answer: AVON ### Explanation: Definition: Flower **Hidden in**(carried by) sAVONarola Defn: There are more than one river,flower named Avon, even in England. I guess the most famous the one is in Warwickshire, because of Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Supply a need for game fellow, good during strike (6,3,3)

### Answer: BRIDGE THE GAP ### Explanation: Definition: Supply a need BRIDGE(the card game) [HE(fellow,masculine chap) G($$g$$ood)] **contained in**(during) TAP(a blow,strike)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Paul at once prepared fruit (10)

### Answer: CANTALOUPE ### Explanation: Definition: fruit **Anagram of**(prepared) PAUL AT ONCE

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### Clue: Holiday in secluded spot (6)

### Answer: RECESS ### Explanation: Definition: Holiday,secluded spot Doube defn: 1st: A short/long break, as what Parliament has, presumably for members to take their holidays, and 2nd: Inner area,secluded spot, away from the mainstream, eg. figuratively, the recesses of your mind

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Stylish, clean and young (6)

### Answer: DRESSY ### Explanation: Definition: Stylish DRESS(as in to clean a wound) Y($$y$$oung)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Psychic upset usual partner (12)

### Answer: SUPERNATURAL ### Explanation: Definition: Psychic **Anagram of**(upset) USUAL PARTNER

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### Clue: It shows when working guide's frivolous (5,5)

### Answer: PILOT LIGHT ### Explanation: Definition: It shows when working PILOT(guide,steerer) LIGHT(lightweight,unserious,frivolous)

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### Clue: Laughter or a term embracing it (8)

### Answer: HILARITY ### Explanation: Definition: Laughter HILARY(the spring term at Oxford U, Inns of Court, et al, named after St. Hilarius, Bishop of Poitiers in 4C – I wonder if he was cheerful?) **containing**(embracing) IT

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Coarse filter surprisingly isn't rare (8)

### Answer: STRAINER ### Explanation: Definition: Coarse filter **Anagram of**(surprisingly) of ISNT RARE

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### Clue: Greek devours the classics (6)

### Answer: GREATS ### Explanation: Definition: the classics GR($$Gr$$eek, also the ISO code for Greece) EATS(devours)

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### Clue: Leader of thugs, buried in concrete, showing no emotion (6)

### Answer: STOLID ### Explanation: Definition: showing no emotion T(first letter,leader of "thugs") **contained in**(buried in) SOLID(unyielding,compact,tangible,concrete). Nice surface – image of gang warfare.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Foreign ruler much liked by accountant (4)

### Answer: INCA ### Explanation: Definition: Foreign ruler IN(in fashion,popular,much liked as in the "in-crowd") **plus**(by) CA($$C$$hartered $$A$$ccountant – a million miles away from that amusing euphemism, turf accountant) Defn: Ruler, or member of the royal family of the South American Inca people and their empire, pre the Spanish conquistadors.

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### Clue: Seek to obtain funds to cover university entrance (6)

### Answer: PURSUE ### Explanation: Definition: Seek to obtain PURSE(metonym for money,funds) **containing**(to cover) U(first letter,entrance of "university")

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### Clue: Criminals taken in hand by bishops (6)

### Answer: CROOKS ### Explanation: Definition: Criminals Cryptic defn: The word refers to the symbol of pastoral office carried,taken in hand by bishops, a staff with a crook on top (sometimes a cross). Same name and similar appearance to the staff carried by shepherds. So I'm almost sure it arises from the comparable symbolism between the respective "flocks". (Could also be seen as double defn. depending how one sees the rest of the clue.) A nice surface of bishops saving criminals (at least their souls – if they have any).

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### Clue: Doctor in habit of fighting (6)

### Answer: COMBAT ### Explanation: Definition: fighting MB(from Neo-Latin $$M$$edicinae $$B$$accalaureus,Bachelor of Medicine,doctor) **contained in**(in) COAT(an item of clothing,habit)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Many lads fancy being a success with females (5,3)

### Answer: LADYS MAN ### Explanation: Definition: a success with females **Anagram of**(fancy) MANY LADS. Lovely surface.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Hot time for wife of Zeus (4)

### Answer: HERA ### Explanation: Definition: wife of Zeus H($$h$$ot) ERA(a long time period)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Remove vital parts of broken tea service (10)

### Answer: EVISCERATE ### Explanation: Definition: Remove vital parts **Anagram of**(broken) TEA SERVICE Defn: In addition to physical disembowelment, it can also refer figuratively to the work of censors.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Show how devil and saint rank in estimation (11)

### Answer: DEMONSTRATE ### Explanation: Definition: Show how DEMON(devil) ST(abbrev. for saint) RATE(as in "how they rate,rank, in relation to one another, in someone's estimation")

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Do see lunch is set out at the correct time (2,8)

### Answer: ON SCHEDULE ### Explanation: Definition: at the correct time **Anagram of**(set out) DO SEE LUNCH.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Appeal to counsel (4)

### Answer: URGE ### Explanation: Definition: Appeal,to counsel Double defn: 1st: To stimulate, excite or incite; and 2nd: As in "He urged his client to drop the suit". I've chosen the most diverse meanings I could think of, but I may be wrong.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Force to serve port (8)

### Answer: SHANGHAI ### Explanation: Definition: Force to serve,port Double defn. 1st: Use force (or drink or drugs) to kidnap persons to serve on board,crew ships sailing to the Orient, including to the 2nd defn.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Capital A followed by S? (6)

### Answer: ATHENS ### Explanation: Definition: Capital A THEN(followed by) S

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: The slippery slope taken by some sportsmen (3,3)

### Answer: SKI RUN ### Explanation: Definition: The slippery slope taken by some sportsmen Cryptic defn.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: More than one rock group? (6)

### Answer: STONES ### Explanation: Definition: group Cryptic defn. Short name for The Rolling Stones, going-on septuagenarian rockers by now. "Rock" doubles up in the clue.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Cheat to secure point in card game (8)

### Answer: CRIBBAGE ### Explanation: Definition: card game CRIB(cheat by bringing in answers, other illicit aids into an exam, by stealing someone's work, or by just petty thieving) BAG(to get,secure eg. a prize) E($$e$$ast,compass point)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: A loose word for the BBC (6)

### Answer: AUNTIE ### Explanation: Definition: word for the BBC A UNTIE(verb, as in to loose a boat from its moorings) Defn: Nickname,word for that venerable institution, the BBC, sometimes also called "the Beeb" or even "Auntie Beeb"

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Director has staff dressed in purple – king or queen coming (8)

### Answer: PRODUCER ### Explanation: Definition: Director ROD(staff,baton) **contained in**(dressed in) PUCE(a shade of purple) **plus**(coming) R(abbrev. for king or queen, from Latin $$R$$ex or $$R$$egina respectively) Defn: In former usage, in British theatre, a producer was a stage director. In today's age of specialisation, the director is the operations guy, and the producer is the finance and administration guy.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: He hopes to find you well (6)

### Answer: DOWSER ### Explanation: Definition: He hopes to find you well Cryptic defn. In earlier times, person whom you paid, if you were desperate enough, to find underground water for you, using a divining rod.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Fake ring revealed by youth leader (6)

### Answer: PHONEY ### Explanation: Definition: Fake PHONE(verb, to call,ring on the telephone) **plus**(revealed by) Y(initial letter,leader of "youth")

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Sea air (6)

### Answer: SHANTY ### Explanation: Definition: Sea air Cryptic defn. Song,air that sailors,sea-going personnel sing.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Pretty smart? Quite the reverse (5,6)

### Answer: PLAIN STUPID ### Explanation: Definition: Pretty smart? Quite the reverse Cryptic defn. Antonyms respectively of "pretty", as in "plain Jane', and "smart". Together, a phrase that's the opposite,reverse of "pretty smart".

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Service pass (8)

### Answer: OVERHAUL ### Explanation: Definition: Service,pass Double defn. 1st: Verb/noun for a major and thorough service of an engine; and 2nd: Verb, to overtake,pass, say, a vehicle, or a competitor.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Moving about (8)

### Answer: TOUCHING ### Explanation: Definition: Moving,about Double defn. 1st: Appealing to your emotions,moving; and 2nd: Refering to,about a subject or topic, eg. "he gave a speech touching on the government's education policy"

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Moves slowly in unfinished game on board (6)

### Answer: INCHES ### Explanation: Definition: Moves slowly IN CHES(game on board,"chess" without its last letter,unfinished). Nice surface.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: They may be after estate – amen! (6)

### Answer: AGENTS ### Explanation: Definition: They may be after estate A GENTS("amen" split into "a" and "men",gents) Defn: Literally coming after "estate" in the phrase "estate agents" and figuratively on the lookout for,after estate,property they can manage/market for the owners. Nice surface.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Open prison was adequate (6)

### Answer: CANDID ### Explanation: Definition: Open CAN(prison,jail) DID(past tense of is sufficient,adequate as in "one drink will do me fine"

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Raises new taxes, accepting pound (6)

### Answer: EXALTS ### Explanation: Definition: Raises **Anagram of**(new) TAXES **containing**(accepting) L(from Latin $$L$$ibra, £, symbol for the pound sterling)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Conductor of opera with Mimi's new maiden replaced (9)

### Answer: TOSCANINI ### Explanation: Definition: Conductor TOSCA(the opera by Puccini) NINI(from another Puccini opera, "Mimi" with "m",$$m$$aiden **replaced by**(replaced) "n",$$n$$ew – to fit, both "m"s are replaced, though not explicitly stated) Defn: Arturo, 1867-1957, Italian conductor.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Astonished to find silver on silverback, perhaps (5)

### Answer: AGAPE ### Explanation: Definition: Astonished AG(in chemistry, symbol for silver from Latin "$$a$$r$$g$$entum") APE(an example,perhaps of which is the silverback gorilla). Nice surface.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Parrots smuggled in rear of motor vehicles (7)

### Answer: LORRIES ### Explanation: Definition: vehicles LORIS(Australasian parrots) **containing**(smuggled in) R(last letter,rear of "motor"). "Motor" could be considered as doubling up in definition and wordplay. Another nice surface

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Fleet set forth (7)

### Answer: EXPRESS ### Explanation: Definition: Fleet,set forth Double defn. 1st: Adjective, fast,express; and 2nd: Verb, to elucidate,say so.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Assume consent is overridden (3)

### Answer: DON ### Explanation: Definition: Assume **Reversal of**(is overridden) "nod",consent.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Pour egg on snow (11)

### Answer: PRECIPITATE ### Explanation: Definition: Pour,egg on,snow I think it's a triple defn. 1st: Verb, as in "to rain,pour"; 2nd: Verb, to cause to happen, as in "to precipitate an action"; 3rd: Noun, that which falls, eg. snow. I spent a long time trying to work it out as a cryptic clue, then a cryptic definition, then a double definition, and can only conclude (rightfully I hope) that it's a triple definition.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Glue shampoo lid into top of head (5)

### Answer: PASTE ### Explanation: Definition: Glue S(first letter,lid of "shampoo") **contained in**(into) PATE(crown,top of head)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Odd characters in skiing trip (3)

### Answer: SIN ### Explanation: Definition: trip The first, second & third letters,odd characters in "skiing" Defn: Verb or noun of "to stumble,trip,make an error" – which if serious enough, could constitute a sin, I guess.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Threaten disgrace (5)

### Answer: LOWER ### Explanation: Definition: Threaten,disgrace Double defn. 1st: To menace,threaten, eg. the sky or weather when it's going to storm; and 2nd: To bring down in standing or stature,to humble,to disgrace.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Square corners supply hard puzzles (5,6)

### Answer: RIGHT ANGLES ### Explanation: Definition: Square corners RIG(to provide,supply with equipment, etc.) H($$h$$ard) TANGLES(situations which are confused and confusing, and can therefore be called puzzles – not to be confused with crosswords which only try to be confusing)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Unseaworthy vessel's infection concealed presence of uranium (3)

### Answer: TUB ### Explanation: Definition: Unseaworthy vessel TB(abbrev. for $$t$$u$$b$$ercolosis, an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, largely thought to be eradicated by mass vaccination, and antibiotics, but with some evidence of new strains resistant to those antibiotics) ***containing***(concealed presence of) U(in chemistry, symbol for $$u$$ranium)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: In hearing, give others a going over (7)

### Answer: EARSHOT ### Explanation: Definition: In hearing **Anagram of**(going over) OTHERS A. Nice misdirection towards a homophone.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Way to get a gross litre of pastry (7)

### Answer: STRUDEL ### Explanation: Definition: pastry ST(abbrev. for street,way) **plus**(to get) RUDE(unrefined,gross) L(abbrev. for litre)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Film of queen following woman (5)

### Answer: SHEER ### Explanation: Definition: Film ER(the queen, $$E$$lizabeth $$R$$egina) **placed after**(following) SHE(pronoun for "woman")

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Nut in grease you gobbled up noisily (9)

### Answer: INFATUATE ### Explanation: Definition: Nut IN FAT(lard,grease) **plus** [U ATE]{homophone(noisily) of "you ate",you gobbled up)} Defn: Noun for someone who is infatuated with someone/something, in other words a nut, crazy (not literally) about that one/thing.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Impassive as bone is set in concrete (6)

### Answer: STOLID ### Explanation: Definition: Impassive T(as in T-bone, a large steak with a bone shaped like a "T" running through it – as an aside, a contemporary meaning of T-bone is a vehicle crash where the wreckage is shaped like a "T", one of the more lethal types of crashes)*** contained in***(is set in) SOLID(hard and firm,concrete)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Underwear for musicians? (1-7)

### Answer: G-STRINGS ### Explanation: Definition: Underwear Cryptic defn. I'd like to know how the lowest string on the violin became associated with underwear. The association of the G-string with strippers, and the perhaps disreputable overtone, is now overcome by calling it the "thong".

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Revolting pimp steals manuscript (10)

### Answer: PALIMPSEST ### Explanation: Definition: manuscript **Anagram of**(revolting) PIMP STEALS Defn: A parchment with writing, which could be a manuscript, but in particular a palimpsest is one where previous writing has been erased to make way for the new writing. An ancient example of recycling.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Appreciates where archaeologists work (4)

### Answer: DIGS ### Explanation: Definition: Appreciates,where archaeologists work Double defn.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Reverse network grids oddly broadcast beeps, perhaps (4,6)

### Answer: TIME SIGNAL ### Explanation: Definition: beeps, perhaps **Reversal of**(reverse) [LAN(abbrev. for local area network, where computers within a limited area are linked) GIS(first, third & fifth letters,oddly of "grids") EMIT(issue,broadcast)] Defn: Eg. "At the beep/tone, the time will be …."

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Find fault with entry missing from woodwork (4)

### Answer: CARP ### Explanation: Definition: Find fault "Carpentry",woodwork without,missing "entry"

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Army arrived first in this, secretly (6)

### Answer: CAMERA ### Explanation: Definition: in this, secretly CAME(arrived) **placed before**(first) RA(abbrev. of $$R$$oyal $$A$$rtillery, branch of the British army) Defn: "In camera", Neo-Latin for "in the chamber", ie. in the privacy,secretly perhaps, of a judge's chamber, as opposed to "in open court".

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Soldiers curse their clothes (8)

### Answer: MENSWEAR ### Explanation: Definition: their clothes MEN(soldiers) SWEAR(curse)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Filmmaker to sensationalise hollow admission by scientist (10)

### Answer: EISENSTEIN ### Explanation: Definition: Filmmaker SE("sensationalise" without its inner letters,hollow) **contained in**(admission by) EINSTEIN(Albert, scientist of E=mc2 fame) Defn: Sergei, 1898-1948, pioneering Soviet film director,filmmaker.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Ornament would suit taller build (10)

### Answer: ILLUSTRATE ### Explanation: Definition: Ornament **Anagram of**(build) SUIT TALLER. Defn: Verb, I suppose when one illustrates text with, well, illustrations, one is ornamenting it.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Irregular verb nearly split by definition (8)

### Answer: PERVERSE ### Explanation: Definition: Irregular VER("verb" without its last letter,nearly) **contained in**(split) PER SE(Latin for "by itself",inherently defined,without reference to extrinsic circumstances/factors – by definition, I suppose) Defn: Deliberately deviating from what is good or proper. I suppose that would be "irregular".