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: Expel from European country after leader's replaced (6)	### Answer: BANISH ### Explanation: Definition: Expel Initial letter(leader) of "Danish"(from the European country) replaced by(after…replaced) "B".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Fast food in Paris? No! (8)	### Answer: ESCARGOT ### Explanation: Definition: Fast food in Paris? No! Cryptic defn: Food, originating from France and easily found in Paris, that is specially bred snails. And we all know that snails are fast-moving creatures. No!
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Fabric in vehicle particularly liked (6)	### Answer: CARPET ### Explanation: Definition: Fabric CAR(vehicle) + PET(adjective for particularly liked, like "pet hate", which phrase then becomes oxymoronic).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: One finishing period of self-denial ignoring daughter's clasp, say? (8)	### Answer: FASTENER ### Explanation: Definition: clasp, say "fast ender"(one finishing period of fast,self-denial) minus(ignoring) "d"(abbrev. for $$d$$aughter). Answer: An example of which,say is a clasp.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Unpleasant place man will be seen in (4)	### Answer: HELL ### Explanation: Definition: Unpleasant place HE'LL{contraction of "he(man) will"}. Answer: In lower case letters, an unpleasant location to be (seen) in, sometimes emphasised as "a hell-hole of a 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: Ethnic group with dish in better frequented location? (10)	### Answer: RACECOURSE ### Explanation: Definition: better frequented location RACE(ethnic group) plus(with) COURSE(dish,a part of an entire meal). Defn: A crytic, misleading defn. with "better" as a noun and not a comparative. Last one in for me – spent some time trying to think of an exotic/obscure ethnic group. My favourite today.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Resolve strain? One can, being broad-minded (3-9)	### Answer: NON-SECTARIAN ### Explanation: Definition: broad-minded Anagram of(resolve) STRAIN ONE CAN. Answer: Not belonging to, and therefore not restricted by the beliefs of, any particular sect, and therefore broad-minded.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Polite matron, refined, characteristic of London perhaps? (12)	### Answer: METROPOLITAN ### Explanation: Definition: characteristic of London perhaps Anagram of(refined) POLITE MATRON. Answer: Pertaining to a large city, an example of which,perhaps? is London.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Printing expert terse and petty if messed about (10)	### Answer: TYPESETTER ### Explanation: Definition: Printing expert Anagram of(if messed about) [TERSE plus(and) PETTY].
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Faltered regularly in rush (4)	### Answer: FLEE ### Explanation: Definition: rush First, third, fifth and seventh letters(regularly) of "faltered".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Act assuming some won't come because of personal problem? All right (8)	### Answer: OVERBOOK ### Explanation: Definition: Act assuming some won't come OVER(because of, as in "they fought over a woman") + BO(abbrev. for "body odour",a personal problem?) + OK(all right). Defn. and Answer: What some establishments and companies do – take more reservations than they can accommodate, assuming some won't turn up,come. And of course all hell breaks loose when more than they assume turn up.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Revised clue is "It carries water" (6)	### Answer: SLUICE ### Explanation: Definition: It carries water Anagram of(revised) CLUE IS.
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 air worker – in forest in Germany? (8)	### Answer: GARDENER ### Explanation: Definition: Open air worker ARDEN(the Forest of,the region in central England) contained in(in) GER(abbrev. for Germany)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Great attraction of publication associated with computers? (6)	### Answer: MAGNET ### Explanation: Definition: Great attraction MAG(short for magazine,publication) + NET(short for the Internet,a network of,associated with computers). Answer: Noun for something which carries great attraction.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Writing style reporter outlawed, according to Spooner (8)	### Answer: BACKHAND ### Explanation: Definition: Writing style Spoonerism of "hack"(reporter, disparagingly) "banned"(outlawed). Answer: Style of handwriting which slopes towards the left like \.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: On way up, organise drink for young child (8)	### Answer: NURSLING ### Explanation: Definition: young child Reversal of(up, in a down clue) RUN(a way,course,trail eg. a ski run) plus(organise) SLING(a mixed alcoholic, usually sweetened, drink, eg. the Singapore Sling)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Building in swish Edinburgh (4)	### Answer: SHED ### Explanation: Definition: Building Hidden in(in) swiSH EDinburgh.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: US farmer, potential buyer, welcomes article about credit (12)	### Answer: SHARECROPPER ### Explanation: Definition: US farmer SHOPPER(potential buyer wandering the shops) containing(welcomes) [A(article in grammar) + RE(short for regarding,about) + CR(abbrev. for "credit", especially used by bean-counters)] Answer: In the US, a farmer, especially a tenant who pays a part,share of the crop as rent.
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 court appearance a possibility, arranged bail at once (10)	### Answer: ACTIONABLE ### Explanation: Definition: With court appearance a possibility Anagram of(arranged) BAIL AT ONCE. Answer: What one does (or mis-does) may result in a legal summons,is actionable, requiring one to make a court appearance. Something you want to stay away from.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Feeling of anxiety upset attempt to produce bridgelike structure (6)	### Answer: GANTRY ### Explanation: Definition: bridgelike structure Reversal of(upset) NAG(a feeling of anxiety that nags at you) + TRY(an attempt).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Aim to make sailor understand (6)	### Answer: TARGET ### Explanation: Definition: Aim TAR(nickname for a sailor) + GET(to understand something,geddit?). Defn: What you shoot for, as in "my aim is to complete this blog in time".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Clever idea some linked with Star Trek broadcast (12)	### Answer: MASTERSTROKE ### Explanation: Definition: Clever idea Anagram of(broadcast) [SOME plus(linked with) STAR TREK].
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Criminally, feed line extremes of bias can be justified by argument (10)	### Answer: DEFENSIBLE ### Explanation: Definition: can be justified by argument Anagram of(criminally) [FEED LINE + B,S(the initial and ending letters,extremes of "bias")]
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Be evasive over what's charged for horse? (8)	### Answer: STALLION ### Explanation: Definition: horse STALL(to stonewall,prevaricate,be evasive) placed above(over, in a down clue) ION(a charged particle of matter).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Excite curiosity of characters from entire street (8)	### Answer: INTEREST ### Explanation: Definition: Excite curiosity Anagram of(of characters from) [ENTIRE + ST(abbrev. for "street")]
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Convincing air inspires leaders of the recruits (6)	### Answer: STRONG ### Explanation: Definition: Convincing SONG(an air) containing(inspires) T,R(initial letters,leaders of "the" and "recruits")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Seem awed at first – extremely quiet on organ? (6)	### Answer: APPEAR ### Explanation: Definition: Seem A(initial letter,at first of "awed") + PP(in music, abbrev. for pianissimo,instruction to play extremely quietly) *placed above*(on, in a down clue) EAR(organ of hearing).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Initially placate the French with first-class excuse (4)	### Answer: PLEA ### Explanation: Definition: excuse P(initial letter,initially of "placate") + LE(in French, the article "the") plus(with) A(the A grade,first-class). Answer: An excuse,pretext, as in "she declined it on the plea that she had a headache".
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 sinful desire of one mind (6)	### Answer: AGREED ### Explanation: Definition: of one mind A + GREED(excessive desire, one of the deadly sins).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Exploding into pure chaos (8)	### Answer: ERUPTION ### Explanation: Definition: Exploding Anagram of(chaos) INTO PURE. Defn: As a noun.
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 fight with one another (6)	### Answer: ALLIES ### Explanation: Definition: They fight with one another Cryptic defn: Using another sense of "with" as in "together","side by side","on the same side".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Tax produces public anger (8)	### Answer: OVERTIRE ### Explanation: Definition: Tax OVERT(public,in the open) + IRE(anger).
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 could be indeed so unfair (3-5)	### Answer: ONE-SIDED ### Explanation: Definition: unfair Anagram of(it could be) INDEED 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: Shakespearean character is found in complicated plot (6)	### Answer: PISTOL ### Explanation: Definition: Shakespearean character IS contained in(found in) anagram of(complicated) PLOT. Answer: Shakespearean character in "Henry IV" parts 1 and 2, "Henry V" and "The Merry Wives of Windsor", found in more than one complicated plot, then. A WIWD (wordplay intertwined with definition) 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: Superfluous oil-well (4)	### Answer: SUMP ### Explanation: Definition: Superfluous oil-well Cryptic defn: A container,well for excess,superfluous oil.
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's instrumental in calor gas distribution (3,7)	### Answer: COR ANGLAIS ### Explanation: Definition: It's instrumental Anagram of(distribution) IN CALOR GAS. Answer: The English horn, literally translated from French.
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 start provided in one change round (10)	### Answer: COPENHAGEN ### Explanation: Definition: Capital P(initial letter,start of "provided") contained in(in) anagram of(round) ONE CHANGE. Answer: Capital city of Denmark.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Czech river – or German (4)	### Answer: ODER ### Explanation: Definition: Czech river German for "or".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Hop around in attempt to get prize (6)	### Answer: TROPHY ### Explanation: Definition: prize Anagram of(around) HOP contained in(in) TRY(attempt).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Handy thing to take up or run (8)	### Answer: GAUNTLET ### Explanation: Definition: Handy thing to take up,run Double defn: 1st: A glove,the very thing for your hand, which you can take up to accept a challenge – it could be figuratively, or literally if someone throws down his gauntlet, perhaps after slapping you with it; and 2nd: The thing to run,to suffer or endure an onslaught or ordeal – again it could be figuratively, or literally when you are forced between two rows of men (or women?) who strike you as you run through, originally a form of military punishment.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Could mean coming in last, everything considered (5,3)	### Answer: AFTER ALL ### Explanation: Definition: everything considered Cryptic defn: Coming in last means you come in after all the others.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Be defeated in court when secret is revealed (6)	### Answer: CLOSET ### Explanation: Definition: secret LOSE(be defeated) contained in(in) CT(abbrev. for "court"). I think "is revealed" cannot be part of the definition, as it is the opposite of the answer. It is therefore probably to misdirect, and as a connector to the wordplay. I thought a better construction would be "Be defeated in court, revealing secret." Answer: An adjective for being in private,secret.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Spear goes to many a knight (8)	### Answer: LANCELOT ### Explanation: Definition: a knight LANCE(spear) plus(goes to) LOT(many).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Become more relaxed when no longer criticised, we hear (6)	### Answer: EXPAND ### Explanation: Definition: Become more relaxed Homophone of(we hear) of "ex-"(no longer, as in your "ex-wife") "panned"(criticised, eg. by a film/play reviewer). Answer: To become more relaxed,talkative,effusive. Root word for the more familiar adjective "expansive".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Bewildered by how a bankrupt business was run (2,1,4)	### Answer: AT A LOSS ### Explanation: Definition: Bewildered 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: An outstanding example of cartography (6,3)	### Answer: RELIEF MAP ### Explanation: Definition: example of cartography Cryptic defn: A pun on "outstanding" to mean standing out, as in projecting from a plane. A relief map gives the configuration and heights of the land surface above a given plane, ie. its projections.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Shutter usually closed at night (6)	### Answer: EYELID ### Explanation: Definition: Shutter usually closed at night Cryptic defn: The shutter over your eyes.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Knock about badly delivered over (4)	### Answer: ROVE ### Explanation: Definition: Knock about Anagram of(badly delivered) OVER. Defn: and Answer: To wander around aimlessly.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Time for breakfast food (8)	### Answer: PORRIDGE ### Explanation: Definition: Time,breakfast food Double defn: 1st: Slang for time served in prison.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: I do it when playing the fool (5)	### Answer: IDIOT ### Explanation: Definition: fool Anagram of(when playing) I DO 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: Stacks of chalk required by dressmakers? (7)	### Answer: NEEDLES ### Explanation: Definition: Stacks of chalk,required by dressmakers Double defn: 1st: With the definitie article and an upper-case initial, the 3 stacks of chalk off the Isle of Wight; and 2nd: Pointed implements required by dressmakers for their work.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Getting rid of, or just changing places (7)	### Answer: REMOVAL ### Explanation: Definition: Getting rid of,changing places Double defn: 1st: As a noun, the act of getting rid of, say, an unwanted thing or person; and 2nd: As a noun, the moving from one place to another, as when one moves house, using a removal van.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Sort of thinking of belonging to the side (7)	### Answer: LATERAL ### Explanation: Definition: Sort of thinking,belonging to the side Double defn: 1st: Thought processes,sort of thinking employing unorthodox and creative methods, the term originating from apparently, and popularised by, Edward de Bono.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Region that's Spanish and American inter alia (9)	### Answer: ANDALUSIA ### Explanation: Definition: Region that's Spanish AND + [US(American) contained in(inter) ALIA].
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Reaching new position of authority (2,6)	### Answer: IN CHARGE ### Explanation: Definition: position of authority Anagram of(new) REACHING.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Tom's shout shows disapproval (7)	### Answer: CATCALL ### Explanation: Definition: shows disapproval CAT(a tom,male cat) + CALL(shout). Answer: A shrill whistle or cry that shows disapproval by the caller.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Went round to add a name to the list (7)	### Answer: ROTATED ### Explanation: Definition: Went round TED(a name) plus(to add…to) ROTA(a list of names,roster)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Flood in motion (6)	### Answer: INFLUX ### Explanation: Definition: Flood IN + FLUX(continuous change,motion). Answer: The arrival or entry of many things,a flood.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Frequently expressed as decimal (5)	### Answer: OFTEN ### Explanation: Definition: Frequently OF TEN(in multiples of 10,as decimal)
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 number given to someone to sing (4)	### Answer: ALTO ### Explanation: Definition: someone to sing A + L(Roman numeral for the number 50) plus(given) TO.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Basic floor design requires a ruler (8)	### Answer: PLANKING ### Explanation: Definition: Basic floor PLAN(design,blueprint) plus(requires) KING(a ruler). Answer: A basic floor would consist of wooden planking.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Socialist author unhappy with Blair? (6)	### Answer: ORWELL ### Explanation: Definition: Socialist author unhappy with Blair? Cryptic defn: George, was the pen name of socialist author Eric Arthur Blair – was he perhaps unhappy with his name as indicated by the question mark? The surface misdirects us to another Blair, who perhaps made many socialists, authors included, unhappy.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Like Shakespeare's genius it rarely goes amiss (8)	### Answer: LITERARY ### Explanation: Definition: Like Shakespeare's genius Anagram of(goes amiss) IT RARELY.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: One cell with a ring fixed in a beam, perhaps (6)	### Answer: AMOEBA ### Explanation: Definition: One cell O(looks like a ring) contained in(fixed in) anagram of(perhaps) [A BEAM].
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Valiant nil-nil replay is futile . . . . (2,2,5)	### Answer: TO NO AVAIL ### Explanation: Definition: futile Anagram of(replay) [VALIANT + O-O(looks like 0-0,nil-nil)]
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 return, City beat Brazilian port (5)	### Answer: NATAL ### Explanation: Definition: Brazilian port Reversal of(in return) [LA(Los Angeles,city) + TAN(to beat)]. Answer: A city-port in Brazil. A popular name to name cities.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Sensible patients wouldn't be in it (4)	### Answer: COMA ### Explanation: Definition: Sensible patients wouldn't be in it Cryptic defn: If you're sensible,have all your senses working, you wouldn't be in a coma, and vice versa.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: River in swollen condition – sound the alarm! (4,3)	### Answer: RING OUT ### Explanation: Definition: sound the alarm R($$r$$iver) + IN + GOUT(a medical condition due to excess uric acid in the blood depositing in certain joints, and making them inflamed,swollen).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Deleted word for "glove" in dictionary (7)	### Answer: OMITTED ### Explanation: Definition: Deleted MITT(a word for "glove") contained in(in) OED(abbrev. for the $$O$$xford $$E$$nglish $$D$$ictionary).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Airline's eastern centre of operations (4)	### Answer: BASE ### Explanation: Definition: centre of operations BA(abbrev. for British Airways, whose motto was once "worlds' favourite airline", but sometimes "$$B$$loody $$A$$wful") + E($$e$$astern).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Set free of charges yet bound over (5)	### Answer: CLEAR ### Explanation: Definition: Set free of charges,bound over Double defn: 1st: Of legal charges; and 2nd: bound,jump over a specified height.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Garden features using stones around lake (9)	### Answer: ROCKERIES ### Explanation: Definition: Garden features ROCKS(stones) containing(around) ERIE(one of the Great Lakes in North America).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: One cold March back in the Antarctic eg (6)	### Answer: ICECAP ### Explanation: Definition: in the Antarctic eg I(Roman numeral for "one") + C($$c$$old) + reversal of(back) of PACE(to march)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Upholder of standards (8)	### Answer: FLAGPOLE ### Explanation: Definition: Upholder of standards Cryptic defn: On which flags,standards are flown,upheld.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Tasteless ingredient of vinegar is harmful (6)	### Answer: GARISH ### Explanation: Definition: Tasteless Hidden in(ingredient of) vineGAR IS Harmful.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Wrongly diagnose, thus suffered a lot (8)	### Answer: AGONISED ### Explanation: Definition: suffered a lot Anagram of(wrongly) DIAGNOSE.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Brigand swaps sides to be Roman governor (6)	### Answer: PILATE ### Explanation: Definition: Roman governor "pirate"(brigand) with its letter "r"($$r$$ight) replaced by "l"($$l$$eft),swaps sides.
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 nurse takes time to be there (6)	### Answer: ATTEND ### Explanation: Definition: to be there A + TEND(to nurse) containing(takes) T($$t$$ime).
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 country's livelihood, you could say (5)	### Answer: KOREA ### Explanation: Definition: A country Homophone of(you could say) of "career"(one's livelihood,occupation).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Frontline caught in seething rain – such bliss! (7)	### Answer: NIRVANA ### Explanation: Definition: such bliss VAN(frontline,forefront of eg. army, movement, progress) contained in(caught in) anagram of(seething) RAIN. Answer: In some eastern religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism, the state of being free from suffering,being in such bliss. The word in Sanskrit literally means "blowing out" – of the fires of greed, hatred and delusion.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Strange insects biting in cattle (9)	### Answer: RUMINANTS ### Explanation: Definition: cattle [RUM(strange,odd) + ANTS(insects)] containing(biting) IN. Answer: Animals, including cattle, and camels, and giraffes, which have even-toed hooves, chew cud, and have 4 stomach compartments to digest their food.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Start off being miserable and you'll get the sack (8)	### Answer: EJECTION ### Explanation: Definition: the sack "dejection"(state of being miserable) minus its initial letter(start 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: Flyers from sale left scattered around (8)	### Answer: LEAFLETS ### Explanation: Definition: Flyers Anagram of(scattered around) SALE LEFT. Answer: The, mostly, junk mail that you get though your letterbox or distributed by hand at shopping malls, train stations, etc. Nice, true 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: Obscure leaders in battle located under ruins (4)	### Answer: BLUR ### Explanation: Definition: Obscure Initial letters,leaders in "battle","located", "under", "ruins".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Tubs are OK to contain explosions (9)	### Answer: OUTBREAKS ### Explanation: Definition: explosions Anagram of(to contain) TUBS ARE OK.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Pathetic feeling (8)	### Answer: TOUCHING ### Explanation: Definition: Pathetic,feeling Double defn: 1st: That which pulls your heart strings and 2nd: The sense of feeling,touching via the nerve endings in your skin.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Any issue he raised couldn't succeed (4,4)	### Answer: LIFE PEER ### Explanation: Definition: Any issue he raised couldn't succeed Cryptic defn: A child,issue of a life peer cannot inherit,couldn't succeed to his title, as opposed to a hereditary peer. Nice, if pessimistic, surface of a peer in the House of Lords.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Frank's caught out with ominous results (4)	### Answer: DIRE ### Explanation: Definition: with ominous results "direct"(frank,straightforward) minus(out) "ct"(in cricket notation, abbrev. for "caught").
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Support needed on journal, work piling up (7)	### Answer: BACKLOG ### Explanation: Definition: work piling up BACK(support, as verb or noun) placed above(on, in a down clue) LOG(a journal)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Hard workers, we're told, who can't vote? (6)	### Answer: MINORS ### Explanation: Definition: who can't vote Homophone of(we're told) "miners"(those hard workers underground). Answer: Those below voting age.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Soar aloft, like Chelsea's first goal (6)	### Answer: ASCEND ### Explanation: Definition: Soar aloft AS(like, as in "hard as nails") + C("Chelsea"'s initial letter,first) + END(goal one strives to)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Prod to which toast's often attached (3,2)	### Answer: EGG ON ### Explanation: Definition: Prod Cryptic defn: "toast" is often attached to make "egg on toast".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Corrupt French noble found in bishopric (6)	### Answer: SEDUCE ### Explanation: Definition: Corrupt DUC(French for duke,a nobleman) contained in(found in) SEE(a bishopric,the office of a bishop).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Dog in mine without railway (6)	### Answer: COLLIE ### Explanation: Definition: Dog "colliery"(coal mine) minus(without) "ry"(abbrev. for railway).
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 is given here (7)	### Answer: PRESENT ### Explanation: Definition: It is given,here Double defn: 1st: That which is given,a gift; and 2nd: To indicate that one is present at a roll call..
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Living with an independent partner (7)	### Answer: ANIMATE ### Explanation: Definition: Living AN + I(abbrev. for independent, as with an election candidate) + MATE(partner). Answer: Descriptive of one who has life,living, as opposed to inanimate.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Rude show about the Spanish (10)	### Answer: INDELICATE ### Explanation: Definition: Rude INDICATE(to show) containing(about) EL(Spanish for the article, "the").
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Measure sentence (4)	### Answer: TIME ### Explanation: Definition: Measure,sentence Double defn: 1st: As a noun, a measure,dimension, or as a verb, to measure a given dimension, in this case time; and 2nd: Time to be spent in prison,a sentence which may be handed down by a judge.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Weapon discovered in Catalan cemetery (5)	### Answer: LANCE ### Explanation: Definition: Weapon Hidden in(discovered in) cataLAN CEMetery.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Order to conceal Channel Islands' public disturbance (8)	### Answer: INCIDENT ### Explanation: Definition: public disturbance INDENT(an order for a goods item) containing(to conceal) CI(abbrev. for $$C$$hannel $$I$$slands). Answer: A bland euphemism for a "public disturbance".

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

### Clue: Expel from European country after leader's replaced (6)

### Answer: BANISH ### Explanation: Definition: Expel Initial letter(leader) of "Danish"(from the European country) **replaced by**(after…replaced) "B".

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

### Clue: Fast food in Paris? No! (8)

### Answer: ESCARGOT ### Explanation: Definition: Fast food in Paris? No! Cryptic defn: Food, originating from France and easily found in Paris, that is specially bred snails. And we all know that snails are fast-moving creatures. No!

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

### Clue: Fabric in vehicle particularly liked (6)

### Answer: CARPET ### Explanation: Definition: Fabric CAR(vehicle) + PET(adjective for particularly liked, like "pet hate", which phrase then becomes oxymoronic).

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

### Clue: One finishing period of self-denial ignoring daughter's clasp, say? (8)

### Answer: FASTENER ### Explanation: Definition: clasp, say "fast ender"(one finishing period of fast,self-denial) **minus**(ignoring) "d"(abbrev. for $$d$$aughter). Answer: An example of which,say is a clasp.

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

### Clue: Unpleasant place man will be seen in (4)

### Answer: HELL ### Explanation: Definition: Unpleasant place HE'LL{contraction of "he(man) will"}. Answer: In lower case letters, an unpleasant location to be (seen) in, sometimes emphasised as "a hell-hole of a 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: Ethnic group with dish in better frequented location? (10)

### Answer: RACECOURSE ### Explanation: Definition: better frequented location RACE(ethnic group) **plus**(with) COURSE(dish,a part of an entire meal). Defn: A crytic, misleading defn. with "better" as a noun and not a comparative. Last one in for me – spent some time trying to think of an exotic/obscure ethnic group. My favourite today.

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

### Clue: Resolve strain? One can, being broad-minded (3-9)

### Answer: NON-SECTARIAN ### Explanation: Definition: broad-minded **Anagram of**(resolve) STRAIN ONE CAN. Answer: Not belonging to, and therefore not restricted by the beliefs of, any particular sect, and therefore broad-minded.

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

### Clue: Polite matron, refined, characteristic of London perhaps? (12)

### Answer: METROPOLITAN ### Explanation: Definition: characteristic of London perhaps **Anagram of**(refined) POLITE MATRON. Answer: Pertaining to a large city, an example of which,perhaps? is London.

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

### Clue: Printing expert terse and petty if messed about (10)

### Answer: TYPESETTER ### Explanation: Definition: Printing expert **Anagram of**(if messed about) [TERSE **plus**(and) PETTY].

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

### Clue: Faltered regularly in rush (4)

### Answer: FLEE ### Explanation: Definition: rush First, third, fifth and seventh letters(regularly) of "faltered".

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

### Clue: Act assuming some won't come because of personal problem? All right (8)

### Answer: OVERBOOK ### Explanation: Definition: Act assuming some won't come OVER(because of, as in "they fought over a woman") + BO(abbrev. for "body odour",a personal problem?) + OK(all right). Defn. and Answer: What some establishments and companies do – take more reservations than they can accommodate, assuming some won't turn up,come. And of course all hell breaks loose when more than they assume turn up.

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

### Clue: Revised clue is "It carries water" (6)

### Answer: SLUICE ### Explanation: Definition: It carries water **Anagram of**(revised) CLUE IS.

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 air worker – in forest in Germany? (8)

### Answer: GARDENER ### Explanation: Definition: Open air worker ARDEN(the Forest of,the region in central England) **contained in**(in) GER(abbrev. for Germany)

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

### Clue: Great attraction of publication associated with computers? (6)

### Answer: MAGNET ### Explanation: Definition: Great attraction MAG(short for magazine,publication) + NET(short for the Internet,a network of,associated with computers). Answer: Noun for something which carries great attraction.

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

### Clue: Writing style reporter outlawed, according to Spooner (8)

### Answer: BACKHAND ### Explanation: Definition: Writing style Spoonerism of "hack"(reporter, disparagingly) "banned"(outlawed). Answer: Style of handwriting which slopes towards the left like \.

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

### Clue: On way up, organise drink for young child (8)

### Answer: NURSLING ### Explanation: Definition: young child **Reversal of**(up, in a down clue) RUN(a way,course,trail eg. a ski run) **plus**(organise) SLING(a mixed alcoholic, usually sweetened, drink, eg. the Singapore Sling)

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

### Clue: Building in swish Edinburgh (4)

### Answer: SHED ### Explanation: Definition: Building **Hidden in**(in) swiSH EDinburgh.

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

### Clue: US farmer, potential buyer, welcomes article about credit (12)

### Answer: SHARECROPPER ### Explanation: Definition: US farmer SHOPPER(potential buyer wandering the shops) **containing**(welcomes) [A(article in grammar) + RE(short for regarding,about) + CR(abbrev. for "credit", especially used by bean-counters)] Answer: In the US, a farmer, especially a tenant who pays a part,share of the crop as rent.

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 court appearance a possibility, arranged bail at once (10)

### Answer: ACTIONABLE ### Explanation: Definition: With court appearance a possibility **Anagram of**(arranged) BAIL AT ONCE. Answer: What one does (or mis-does) may result in a legal summons,is actionable, requiring one to make a court appearance. Something you want to stay away from.

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

### Clue: Feeling of anxiety upset attempt to produce bridgelike structure (6)

### Answer: GANTRY ### Explanation: Definition: bridgelike structure **Reversal of**(upset) NAG(a feeling of anxiety that nags at you) + TRY(an attempt).

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

### Clue: Aim to make sailor understand (6)

### Answer: TARGET ### Explanation: Definition: Aim TAR(nickname for a sailor) + GET(to understand something,geddit?). Defn: What you shoot for, as in "my aim is to complete this blog in time".

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

### Clue: Clever idea some linked with Star Trek broadcast (12)

### Answer: MASTERSTROKE ### Explanation: Definition: Clever idea **Anagram of**(broadcast) [SOME **plus**(linked with) STAR TREK].

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

### Clue: Criminally, feed line extremes of bias can be justified by argument (10)

### Answer: DEFENSIBLE ### Explanation: Definition: can be justified by argument **Anagram of**(criminally) [FEED LINE + B,S(the initial and ending letters,extremes of "bias")]

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

### Clue: Be evasive over what's charged for horse? (8)

### Answer: STALLION ### Explanation: Definition: horse STALL(to stonewall,prevaricate,be evasive) **placed above**(over, in a down clue) ION(a charged particle of matter).

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

### Clue: Excite curiosity of characters from entire street (8)

### Answer: INTEREST ### Explanation: Definition: Excite curiosity **Anagram of**(of characters from) [ENTIRE + ST(abbrev. for "street")]

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

### Clue: Convincing air inspires leaders of the recruits (6)

### Answer: STRONG ### Explanation: Definition: Convincing SONG(an air) **containing**(inspires) T,R(initial letters,leaders of "the" and "recruits")

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

### Clue: Seem awed at first – extremely quiet on organ? (6)

### Answer: APPEAR ### Explanation: Definition: Seem A(initial letter,at first of "awed") + PP(in music, abbrev. for pianissimo,instruction to play extremely quietly) ***placed above***(on, in a down clue) EAR(organ of hearing).

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

### Clue: Initially placate the French with first-class excuse (4)

### Answer: PLEA ### Explanation: Definition: excuse P(initial letter,initially of "placate") + LE(in French, the article "the") **plus**(with) A(the A grade,first-class). Answer: An excuse,pretext, as in "she declined it on the plea that she had a headache".

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 sinful desire of one mind (6)

### Answer: AGREED ### Explanation: Definition: of one mind A + GREED(excessive desire, one of the deadly sins).

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

### Clue: Exploding into pure chaos (8)

### Answer: ERUPTION ### Explanation: Definition: Exploding **Anagram of**(chaos) INTO PURE. Defn: As a noun.

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 fight with one another (6)

### Answer: ALLIES ### Explanation: Definition: They fight with one another Cryptic defn: Using another sense of "with" as in "together","side by side","on the same side".

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

### Clue: Tax produces public anger (8)

### Answer: OVERTIRE ### Explanation: Definition: Tax OVERT(public,in the open) + IRE(anger).

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 could be indeed so unfair (3-5)

### Answer: ONE-SIDED ### Explanation: Definition: unfair **Anagram of**(it could be) INDEED 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: Shakespearean character is found in complicated plot (6)

### Answer: PISTOL ### Explanation: Definition: Shakespearean character IS **contained in**(found in) **anagram of**(complicated) PLOT. Answer: Shakespearean character in "Henry IV" parts 1 and 2, "Henry V" and "The Merry Wives of Windsor", found in more than one complicated plot, then. A WIWD (wordplay intertwined with definition) 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: Superfluous oil-well (4)

### Answer: SUMP ### Explanation: Definition: Superfluous oil-well Cryptic defn: A container,well for excess,superfluous oil.

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's instrumental in calor gas distribution (3,7)

### Answer: COR ANGLAIS ### Explanation: Definition: It's instrumental **Anagram of**(distribution) IN CALOR GAS. Answer: The English horn, literally translated from French.

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 start provided in one change round (10)

### Answer: COPENHAGEN ### Explanation: Definition: Capital P(initial letter,start of "provided") **contained in**(in) **anagram of**(round) ONE CHANGE. Answer: Capital city of Denmark.

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

### Clue: Czech river – or German (4)

### Answer: ODER ### Explanation: Definition: Czech river German for "or".

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

### Clue: Hop around in attempt to get prize (6)

### Answer: TROPHY ### Explanation: Definition: prize **Anagram of**(around) HOP **contained in**(in) TRY(attempt).

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

### Clue: Handy thing to take up or run (8)

### Answer: GAUNTLET ### Explanation: Definition: Handy thing to take up,run Double defn: 1st: A glove,the very thing for your hand, which you can take up to accept a challenge – it could be figuratively, or literally if someone throws down his gauntlet, perhaps after slapping you with it; and 2nd: The thing to run,to suffer or endure an onslaught or ordeal – again it could be figuratively, or literally when you are forced between two rows of men (or women?) who strike you as you run through, originally a form of military punishment.

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

### Clue: Could mean coming in last, everything considered (5,3)

### Answer: AFTER ALL ### Explanation: Definition: everything considered Cryptic defn: Coming in last means you come in after all the others.

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

### Clue: Be defeated in court when secret is revealed (6)

### Answer: CLOSET ### Explanation: Definition: secret LOSE(be defeated) **contained in**(in) CT(abbrev. for "court"). I think "is revealed" cannot be part of the definition, as it is the opposite of the answer. It is therefore probably to misdirect, and as a connector to the wordplay. I thought a better construction would be "Be defeated in court, revealing secret." Answer: An adjective for being in private,secret.

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

### Clue: Spear goes to many a knight (8)

### Answer: LANCELOT ### Explanation: Definition: a knight LANCE(spear) **plus**(goes to) LOT(many).

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

### Clue: Become more relaxed when no longer criticised, we hear (6)

### Answer: EXPAND ### Explanation: Definition: Become more relaxed **Homophone of**(we hear) of "ex-"(no longer, as in your "ex-wife") "panned"(criticised, eg. by a film/play reviewer). Answer: To become more relaxed,talkative,effusive. Root word for the more familiar adjective "expansive".

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

### Clue: Bewildered by how a bankrupt business was run (2,1,4)

### Answer: AT A LOSS ### Explanation: Definition: Bewildered 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: An outstanding example of cartography (6,3)

### Answer: RELIEF MAP ### Explanation: Definition: example of cartography Cryptic defn: A pun on "outstanding" to mean standing out, as in projecting from a plane. A relief map gives the configuration and heights of the land surface above a given plane, ie. its projections.

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

### Clue: Shutter usually closed at night (6)

### Answer: EYELID ### Explanation: Definition: Shutter usually closed at night Cryptic defn: The shutter over your eyes.

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

### Clue: Knock about badly delivered over (4)

### Answer: ROVE ### Explanation: Definition: Knock about **Anagram of**(badly delivered) OVER. Defn: and Answer: To wander around aimlessly.

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

### Clue: Time for breakfast food (8)

### Answer: PORRIDGE ### Explanation: Definition: Time,breakfast food Double defn: 1st: Slang for time served in prison.

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

### Clue: I do it when playing the fool (5)

### Answer: IDIOT ### Explanation: Definition: fool **Anagram of**(when playing) I DO 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: Stacks of chalk required by dressmakers? (7)

### Answer: NEEDLES ### Explanation: Definition: Stacks of chalk,required by dressmakers Double defn: 1st: With the definitie article and an upper-case initial, the 3 stacks of chalk off the Isle of Wight; and 2nd: Pointed implements required by dressmakers for their work.

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

### Clue: Getting rid of, or just changing places (7)

### Answer: REMOVAL ### Explanation: Definition: Getting rid of,changing places Double defn: 1st: As a noun, the act of getting rid of, say, an unwanted thing or person; and 2nd: As a noun, the moving from one place to another, as when one moves house, using a removal van.

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

### Clue: Sort of thinking of belonging to the side (7)

### Answer: LATERAL ### Explanation: Definition: Sort of thinking,belonging to the side Double defn: 1st: Thought processes,sort of thinking employing unorthodox and creative methods, the term originating from apparently, and popularised by, Edward de Bono.

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

### Clue: Region that's Spanish and American inter alia (9)

### Answer: ANDALUSIA ### Explanation: Definition: Region that's Spanish AND + [US(American) **contained in**(inter) ALIA].

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

### Clue: Reaching new position of authority (2,6)

### Answer: IN CHARGE ### Explanation: Definition: position of authority **Anagram of**(new) REACHING.

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

### Clue: Tom's shout shows disapproval (7)

### Answer: CATCALL ### Explanation: Definition: shows disapproval CAT(a tom,male cat) + CALL(shout). Answer: A shrill whistle or cry that shows disapproval by the caller.

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

### Clue: Went round to add a name to the list (7)

### Answer: ROTATED ### Explanation: Definition: Went round TED(a name) **plus**(to add…to) ROTA(a list of names,roster)

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

### Clue: Flood in motion (6)

### Answer: INFLUX ### Explanation: Definition: Flood IN + FLUX(continuous change,motion). Answer: The arrival or entry of many things,a flood.

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

### Clue: Frequently expressed as decimal (5)

### Answer: OFTEN ### Explanation: Definition: Frequently OF TEN(in multiples of 10,as decimal)

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 number given to someone to sing (4)

### Answer: ALTO ### Explanation: Definition: someone to sing A + L(Roman numeral for the number 50) **plus**(given) TO.

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

### Clue: Basic floor design requires a ruler (8)

### Answer: PLANKING ### Explanation: Definition: Basic floor PLAN(design,blueprint) **plus**(requires) KING(a ruler). Answer: A basic floor would consist of wooden planking.

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

### Clue: Socialist author unhappy with Blair? (6)

### Answer: ORWELL ### Explanation: Definition: Socialist author unhappy with Blair? Cryptic defn: George, was the pen name of socialist author Eric Arthur Blair – was he perhaps unhappy with his name as indicated by the question mark? The surface misdirects us to another Blair, who perhaps made many socialists, authors included, unhappy.

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

### Clue: Like Shakespeare's genius it rarely goes amiss (8)

### Answer: LITERARY ### Explanation: Definition: Like Shakespeare's genius **Anagram of**(goes amiss) IT RARELY.

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

### Clue: One cell with a ring fixed in a beam, perhaps (6)

### Answer: AMOEBA ### Explanation: Definition: One cell O(looks like a ring) **contained in**(fixed in) **anagram of**(perhaps) [A BEAM].

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

### Clue: Valiant nil-nil replay is futile . . . . (2,2,5)

### Answer: TO NO AVAIL ### Explanation: Definition: futile **Anagram of**(replay) [VALIANT + O-O(looks like 0-0,nil-nil)]

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 return, City beat Brazilian port (5)

### Answer: NATAL ### Explanation: Definition: Brazilian port **Reversal of**(in return) [LA(Los Angeles,city) + TAN(to beat)]. Answer: A city-port in Brazil. A popular name to name cities.

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

### Clue: Sensible patients wouldn't be in it (4)

### Answer: COMA ### Explanation: Definition: Sensible patients wouldn't be in it Cryptic defn: If you're sensible,have all your senses working, you wouldn't be in a coma, and vice versa.

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

### Clue: River in swollen condition – sound the alarm! (4,3)

### Answer: RING OUT ### Explanation: Definition: sound the alarm R($$r$$iver) + IN + GOUT(a medical condition due to excess uric acid in the blood depositing in certain joints, and making them inflamed,swollen).

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

### Clue: Deleted word for "glove" in dictionary (7)

### Answer: OMITTED ### Explanation: Definition: Deleted MITT(a word for "glove") **contained in**(in) OED(abbrev. for the $$O$$xford $$E$$nglish $$D$$ictionary).

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

### Clue: Airline's eastern centre of operations (4)

### Answer: BASE ### Explanation: Definition: centre of operations BA(abbrev. for British Airways, whose motto was once "worlds' favourite airline", but sometimes "$$B$$loody $$A$$wful") + E($$e$$astern).

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

### Clue: Set free of charges yet bound over (5)

### Answer: CLEAR ### Explanation: Definition: Set free of charges,bound over Double defn: 1st: Of legal charges; and 2nd: bound,jump over a specified height.

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

### Clue: Garden features using stones around lake (9)

### Answer: ROCKERIES ### Explanation: Definition: Garden features ROCKS(stones) **containing**(around) ERIE(one of the Great Lakes in North America).

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

### Clue: One cold March back in the Antarctic eg (6)

### Answer: ICECAP ### Explanation: Definition: in the Antarctic eg I(Roman numeral for "one") + C($$c$$old) + **reversal of**(back) of PACE(to march)

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

### Clue: Upholder of standards (8)

### Answer: FLAGPOLE ### Explanation: Definition: Upholder of standards Cryptic defn: On which flags,standards are flown,upheld.

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

### Clue: Tasteless ingredient of vinegar is harmful (6)

### Answer: GARISH ### Explanation: Definition: Tasteless **Hidden in**(ingredient of) vineGAR IS Harmful.

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

### Clue: Wrongly diagnose, thus suffered a lot (8)

### Answer: AGONISED ### Explanation: Definition: suffered a lot **Anagram of**(wrongly) DIAGNOSE.

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

### Clue: Brigand swaps sides to be Roman governor (6)

### Answer: PILATE ### Explanation: Definition: Roman governor "pirate"(brigand) with its letter "r"($$r$$ight) **replaced by** "l"($$l$$eft),swaps sides.

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 nurse takes time to be there (6)

### Answer: ATTEND ### Explanation: Definition: to be there A + TEND(to nurse) **containing**(takes) T($$t$$ime).

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 country's livelihood, you could say (5)

### Answer: KOREA ### Explanation: Definition: A country **Homophone of**(you could say) of "career"(one's livelihood,occupation).

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

### Clue: Frontline caught in seething rain – such bliss! (7)

### Answer: NIRVANA ### Explanation: Definition: such bliss VAN(frontline,forefront of eg. army, movement, progress) **contained in**(caught in) **anagram of**(seething) RAIN. Answer: In some eastern religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism, the state of being free from suffering,being in such bliss. The word in Sanskrit literally means "blowing out" – of the fires of greed, hatred and delusion.

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

### Clue: Strange insects biting in cattle (9)

### Answer: RUMINANTS ### Explanation: Definition: cattle [RUM(strange,odd) + ANTS(insects)] **containing**(biting) IN. Answer: Animals, including cattle, and camels, and giraffes, which have even-toed hooves, chew cud, and have 4 stomach compartments to digest their food.

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

### Clue: Start off being miserable and you'll get the sack (8)

### Answer: EJECTION ### Explanation: Definition: the sack "dejection"(state of being miserable) **minus** its initial letter(start 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: Flyers from sale left scattered around (8)

### Answer: LEAFLETS ### Explanation: Definition: Flyers **Anagram of**(scattered around) SALE LEFT. Answer: The, mostly, junk mail that you get though your letterbox or distributed by hand at shopping malls, train stations, etc. Nice, true 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: Obscure leaders in battle located under ruins (4)

### Answer: BLUR ### Explanation: Definition: Obscure Initial letters,leaders in "battle","located", "under", "ruins".

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

### Clue: Tubs are OK to contain explosions (9)

### Answer: OUTBREAKS ### Explanation: Definition: explosions **Anagram of**(to contain) TUBS ARE OK.

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

### Clue: Pathetic feeling (8)

### Answer: TOUCHING ### Explanation: Definition: Pathetic,feeling Double defn: 1st: That which pulls your heart strings and 2nd: The sense of feeling,touching via the nerve endings in your skin.

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

### Clue: Any issue he raised couldn't succeed (4,4)

### Answer: LIFE PEER ### Explanation: Definition: Any issue he raised couldn't succeed Cryptic defn: A child,issue of a life peer cannot inherit,couldn't succeed to his title, as opposed to a hereditary peer. Nice, if pessimistic, surface of a peer in the House of Lords.

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

### Clue: Frank's caught out with ominous results (4)

### Answer: DIRE ### Explanation: Definition: with ominous results "direct"(frank,straightforward) **minus**(out) "ct"(in cricket notation, abbrev. for "caught").

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

### Clue: Support needed on journal, work piling up (7)

### Answer: BACKLOG ### Explanation: Definition: work piling up BACK(support, as verb or noun) **placed above**(on, in a down clue) LOG(a journal)

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

### Clue: Hard workers, we're told, who can't vote? (6)

### Answer: MINORS ### Explanation: Definition: who can't vote **Homophone of**(we're told) "miners"(those hard workers underground). Answer: Those below voting age.

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

### Clue: Soar aloft, like Chelsea's first goal (6)

### Answer: ASCEND ### Explanation: Definition: Soar aloft AS(like, as in "hard as nails") + C("Chelsea"'s initial letter,first) + END(goal one strives to)

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

### Clue: Prod to which toast's often attached (3,2)

### Answer: EGG ON ### Explanation: Definition: Prod Cryptic defn: "toast" is often attached to make "egg on toast".

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

### Clue: Corrupt French noble found in bishopric (6)

### Answer: SEDUCE ### Explanation: Definition: Corrupt DUC(French for duke,a nobleman) **contained in**(found in) SEE(a bishopric,the office of a bishop).

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

### Clue: Dog in mine without railway (6)

### Answer: COLLIE ### Explanation: Definition: Dog "colliery"(coal mine) **minus**(without) "ry"(abbrev. for railway).

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 is given here (7)

### Answer: PRESENT ### Explanation: Definition: It is given,here Double defn: 1st: That which is given,a gift; and 2nd: To indicate that one is present at a roll call..

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

### Clue: Living with an independent partner (7)

### Answer: ANIMATE ### Explanation: Definition: Living AN + I(abbrev. for independent, as with an election candidate) + MATE(partner). Answer: Descriptive of one who has life,living, as opposed to inanimate.

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

### Clue: Rude show about the Spanish (10)

### Answer: INDELICATE ### Explanation: Definition: Rude INDICATE(to show) **containing**(about) EL(Spanish for the article, "the").

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

### Clue: Measure sentence (4)

### Answer: TIME ### Explanation: Definition: Measure,sentence Double defn: 1st: As a noun, a measure,dimension, or as a verb, to measure a given dimension, in this case time; and 2nd: Time to be spent in prison,a sentence which may be handed down by a judge.

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

### Clue: Weapon discovered in Catalan cemetery (5)

### Answer: LANCE ### Explanation: Definition: Weapon **Hidden in**(discovered in) cataLAN CEMetery.

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

### Clue: Order to conceal Channel Islands' public disturbance (8)

### Answer: INCIDENT ### Explanation: Definition: public disturbance INDENT(an order for a goods item) **containing**(to conceal) CI(abbrev. for $$C$$hannel $$I$$slands). Answer: A bland euphemism for a "public disturbance".