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: City presenting huge temptation for gardener (3,5)	### Answer: BIG APPLE ### Explanation: Definition: City BIG(huge) APPLE(the symbol of temptation presented to Eve, who, as a resident of the Garden of Eden could be called a Gardener, just as eg. an Englander). Answer: Nickname for New York City.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Party song going round America (8)	### Answer: CAROUSAL ### Explanation: Definition: Party CAROL(a Christmas song) containing(going round) USA(America). Answer: More a drunken feast than a party. I had this word 2 days ago, as well, so it was still fresh in my 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: It's said to be very short 'orticultural book (6)	### Answer: VERBAL ### Explanation: Definition: It's said V(abbrev.,short for very) + 'ERBAL("herbal",a "horticultural" book about herbs and plants, usually about their medicinal value, with the two words unaspirated).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Special symbol must be suitable with national award being set up (5)	### Answer: MOTIF ### Explanation: Definition: Special symbol Reversal of(being set up) [FIT(suitable,apt) plus(with) O.M.(abbrev. for the Order of Merit, an award conferred by the monarch]. Answer: A distinctive symbol, figure or shape that recurs in a design. The meaning also includes an added decoration, like a symbol, on a piece of clothing.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Useless timber? (6)	### Answer: LUMBER ### Explanation: Definition: Useless timber Cryptic defn: Timber cut into pieces, which may,? become useless household articles,lumber stored away – the attic being a favourite 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: Article Mail's reprinted on a living organism (6)	### Answer: ANIMAL ### Explanation: Definition: living organism AN(the indefinite article used with nouns beginning with a vowel sound) + anagram of(reprinted) MAIL.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Annoying youngster or model of significance? (6)	### Answer: IMPORT ### Explanation: Definition: significance IMP(annoying,mischievous child,youngster) + OR + T(from the early Ford car, the model T).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Draw a parallel with prior notice; it's good enough (8)	### Answer: ADEQUATE ### Explanation: Definition: good enough EQUATE(to draw a parallel to) plus(with) AD(short for advertisement,a notice) placed before(prior).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Some on-board entertainment creates an impression (4)	### Answer: DENT ### Explanation: Definition: impression Hidden in(some) on-boarD ENTertainment. Answer: A physical impression,a depression.
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 place of "occupier" see "officer" (10)	### Answer: LIEUTENANT ### Explanation: Definition: officer LIEU(in place of) + TENANT(an occupier of a let premises).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Attractive girl has a lot of money (6,5)	### Answer: PRETTY PENNY ### Explanation: Definition: a lot of money PRETTY(attractive) PENNY(girl's name). Answer: As in "That party must have put him back a pretty penny."
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Organic process demolished mobile mast (10)	### Answer: METABOLISM ### Explanation: Definition: Organic process Anagram of(demolished) MOBILE MAST.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Seven days sound pathetic (4)	### Answer: WEAK ### Explanation: Definition: pathetic Homophone of(sound) "week",period of seven days. Defn: Miserably inadequate.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Go indirectly by perimeter roads (8)	### Answer: SIDEWAYS ### Explanation: Definition: Go indirectly SIDE(the perimeter, as opposed to the centre) + WAYS(roads). Answer: To approach,go indirectly, as opposed to head-on.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Marina arranged to produce flier (6)	### Answer: AIRMAN ### Explanation: Definition: flier Anagram of(arranged) MARINA.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Boss's one love is his workplace (6)	### Answer: STUDIO ### Explanation: Definition: workplace STUD(a boss,a protuberance) + I(Roman numeral for "one") + O(looks like zero,love,as in tennis scores).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Get wind of a piece of cake (6)	### Answer: BREEZE ### Explanation: Definition: Get wind,a piece of cake Double defn: 1st: Verb, as in "It breezes from the west."; and 2nd: An easy task, as in "Solving crosswords is a breeze,a piece of cake nowadays with the help of the Internet."
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 am Bill and I make false claims (8)	### Answer: IMPOSTER ### Explanation: Definition: I make false claims I'M(contraction of "I am") + POSTER(a bill,an advertisement that is hung up/posted/pasted on a wall).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Intellectual lament broadcast (6)	### Answer: MENTAL ### Explanation: Definition: Intellectual Anagram of(broadcast) LAMENT. Answer: As in "Solving crosswords is an intellectual,mental exercise."
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Disturb peacekeepers on bench (8)	### Answer: UNSETTLE ### Explanation: Definition: Disturb UN(abbrev. for the United Nations Organisation, part of whose function is be peacekeeper to the world) placed above(on, in a down clue) SETTLE(a long seat,bench).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Criticise "One Man and His Dog" on a point (6)	### Answer: IMPUGN ### Explanation: Definition: Criticise I(Roman numeral for "one") + M(abbrev. for "male",man, usually seen on forms in a box asking if you're M/F) plus(and) PUG(a breed of dog) placed above(on, in a down clue) N(abbrev. for "north",a 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: Mountaineer lost his head but remained flexible (6)	### Answer: LIMBER ### Explanation: Definition: flexible "climber",mountaineer minus(lost) its initial letter,his 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: Potential to reveal fresh talent (6)	### Answer: LATENT ### Explanation: Definition: Potential Anagram of(fresh) TALENT. Answer: That, eg. talent, which is not apparent, but is there to surface,be released at some time,potential.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Assembly of fifty Asters security is the priority (6,5)	### Answer: SAFETY FIRST ### Explanation: Definition: security is the priority Anagram of(assembly of) FIFTY ASTERS.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Cot and chair arranged about the chest (8)	### Answer: THORACIC ### Explanation: Definition: about the chest Anagram of(arranged) [COT plus(and) CHAIR]. Answer: Relating to,about the thorax,chest.
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 film showing modern southern dance (8)	### Answer: NEWSREEL ### Explanation: Definition: Short film NEW(modern) + S(abbrev. for southern) + REEL(a dance).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Info on one American's wizardry (6)	### Answer: GENIUS ### Explanation: Definition: wizardry GEN(info, derived from $$gen$$eral information) placed above(on, in a down clue) I(Roman numeral for "one") US(American).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Brutal attack (6)	### Answer: SAVAGE ### Explanation: Definition: Brutal,attack Double defn: 1st: As an adjective; and 2nd: 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: Way to get to a place for an event (6)	### Answer: AVENUE ### Explanation: Definition: Way A + VENUE(place for an event to be held). 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 thousand agree, perhaps it's skimpy (6)	### Answer: MEAGRE ### Explanation: Definition: skimpy M(Roman numeral for "thousand") + anagram of(perhaps) AGREE.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Draw from French writer (8)	### Answer: DESCRIBE ### Explanation: Definition: Draw DE(French for "from") + SCRIBE(a writer, the meaning ranging from a journalist to a public clerk to a copyist). Answer: Eg. "to describe,draw a circle".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Acquisitions from Mars (6)	### Answer: SPOILS ### Explanation: Definition: Acquisitions,Mars Double defn: 1st: What are gotten from others,acquisitions, especially after winning a war; and 2nd: Damages,mars. Nice surface as Mars is the Roman god of war.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Spurn shot at swallow (4,4)	### Answer: TURN DOWN ### Explanation: Definition: Spurn TURN(one's turn to take a shot in a contest/game) plus(at) DOWN(to swallow a drink, especially quickly or in one gulp).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Keep soldiers in check (6)	### Answer: RETAIN ### Explanation: Definition: Keep TA(abbrev. for $$T$$erritorial $$A$$rmy,soldiers) contained in(in) REIN(to check,limit,control)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Rambling about new form of virus found in river (9)	### Answer: EXCURSIVE ### Explanation: Definition: Rambling Anagram of(new form of) VIRUS contained in(found in) EXE(a river in England, the name derived from the Celtic word for – surprise! – "water"; and giving its name to towns like Exeter and Exmouth). Answer: Descriptive of speech or thought that wanders,rambles round as if it were on an excursion.
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 taking part in exploit with soldiers (5)	### Answer: ACTOR ### Explanation: Definition: One taking part ACT(a deed,an exploit) plus(with) OR(abbrev. for $$o$$ther $$r$$anks,soldiers without a commission). Answer: One taking a role,part in a play, movie, etc.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Dynasty's clout beginning to grow (4)	### Answer: TANG ### Explanation: Definition: Dynasty TAN(to beat,clout someone) + G(initial letter of,beginning to "grow"). Answer: The dynasty in China from 618 AD to 907 AD, except 690 – 705 AD. Edit.note re comment#1: ~~I hope I'm right about this as there is no indication like a "?","perhaps","maybe","say" that it is an example of a dynasty.~~
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Look closely at wound – it's ugly (7)	### Answer: EYESORE ### Explanation: Definition: it's ugly EYE(look closely) plus(at) SORE(a wound that is especially painful or sensitive). Answer: A sight painfully ugly to look at, almost always man-made.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Distinguished knight gripped by material on record company (7)	### Answer: EMINENT ### Explanation: Definition: Distinguished N(in chess notation, a knight chesspiece) contained in(gripped by) NET(fabric,material with a uniform mesh, serving as a foundation for various laces) plus(on – an odd positional indicator in this case, perhaps short for "tagged on to") EMI(the big record company which started off as "$$E$$lectrical and $$M$$usical $$I$$ndustries").
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Quote from it in church (4)	### Answer: CITE ### Explanation: Definition: Quote IT contained in(in) CE($$C$$hurch of $$E$$ngland). Defn: 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: Rex is inside numb with fear (5)	### Answer: DREAD ### Explanation: Definition: fear R(abbrev. for Latin Rex) contained in(is inside) DEAD(numb,but not to the extent of being deprived of life, as in "my leg feels dead".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Priest, after his collapse, has various exercises to get trim (9)	### Answer: SHIPSHAPE ### Explanation: Definition: trim [P(abbrev. for $$p$$riest) *placed after(after) anagram of(collapse) HIS] + anagram of*(various) HAS + PE(abbrev. for $$p$$hysical $$e$$xercises). Answer: Descriptive of something or someone that is in good shape,fit,trim for action, work, use, such as, well, a ship.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Destroyed, like before, outside Germany (6)	### Answer: ERASED ### Explanation: Definition: Destroyed [ERE(before, poetically) containing(outside) AS(like, as in "fit as a fiddle")] + D(International Vehicle Registration code for Germany). Nicely misdirected by punctuation and word order.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Produce blend of green tea (8)	### Answer: GENERATE ### Explanation: Definition: Produce Anagram of(blend of) GREEN TEA.
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 become liquefied by heat on board ship (6)	### Answer: SMELTS ### Explanation: Definition: Fish MELT(become liquefied by heat) contained in(on board) SS($$s$$team$$s$$hip). Answer: Any of various small silvery food fishes in northern waters.
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 an illegal act involving footballers taking Ecstasy (4,4)	### Answer: CAPE FEAR ### Explanation: Definition: Film CAPER(in slang, an illegal act, like a burglary, robbery, heist) containing(involving) [FA($$F$$ootball $$A$$ssociation, of footballers, what else?) containing(taking) E(abbrev. for the drug $$E$$cstasy)]
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 in two minds over hit during communist retreat (6)	### Answer: DITHER ### Explanation: Definition: Be in two minds Anagram of(over – acceptable as an anagram indicator?) HIT contained in(during) reversal of(retreat) RED(communist).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Impressed by small business (6)	### Answer: STRUCK ### Explanation: Definition: Impressed S(abbrev. for $$s$$mall, clothes size that many women seem to desire) + TRUCK(dealings with,business, as in "I don't want to have any truck with him", or even specifically, barter trade). Answer: Impressed in a big way, as in "He was struck by her incredible intelligence".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: About to receive papers on Republican's addition to bill (5)	### Answer: RIDER ### Explanation: Definition: addition to bill [RE(Edit.note re comment#2: ~~short~~ Latin for regarding,about) containing(to receive) ID(abbrev. for identification,papers that prove you are who you are, perhaps?)] placed above(on, in a down clue) R(abbrev. for a member of the Republican Party).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Not heard by Heather when making a delivery (7)	### Answer: BOWLING ### Explanation: Definition: making a delivery BOW{a knot, homophone of(heard) "not"} plus(by) LING(the heather, a low-growing evergreen shrub).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Widely accepted in time after vicar meets Capone in prison (9)	### Answer: PREVALENT ### Explanation: Definition: Widely accepted T(abbrev. for time) placed below(after, in a down clue) [{REV(short for "reverend",member of the clergy, who could be a vicar) plus(meets) AL(Capone, Chicago gangster who spent time in the pen)} contained in(in) PEN(short for penitentiary,Americanism for 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 cannot bend over international's laziness (8)	### Answer: INACTION ### Explanation: Definition: laziness Anagram of(bend) [I CANNOT] containing(over) I(abbrev. for $$i$$nternational).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Guards train carrying books (8)	### Answer: SENTRIES ### Explanation: Definition: Guards SERIES(a series or row of objects or parts,a train) containing(carrying) NT(abbrev. for the New Testament, books in the Bible)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Honour Lot in speech (4)	### Answer: FETE ### Explanation: Definition: Honour Homophone of(in speech) "fate"(one's lot,destiny). Answer: To honour with a fete which could be festive or religious, or both.
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 month after reform hospital department shows a change for the better (9)	### Answer: AMENDMENT ### Explanation: Definition: change for the better A + [M(abbrev. for $$m$$onth) placed below(after, in a down clue) MEND(to reform,repair)] + ENT(abbrev. for $$E$$ar, $$N$$ose and $$T$$hroat department in a hospital).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Section on obelisks is unnecessary (8)	### Answer: NEEDLESS ### Explanation: Definition: unnecessary S(abbrev. for $$s$$ection) plus(on – cf. comment in 19 Across) NEEDLES(obelisks,tapering four-sided shafts of stone, as in Cleopatra's Needle).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Release story about bishop on speed (8)	### Answer: LIBERATE ### Explanation: Definition: Release [LIE(story,fib) containing(about) B(in chess notation, the bishop chesspiece) ] placed above(on, in a down clue) RATE(of travel,speed – not the drug this 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: Some of Plato's Hipparchus is rubbish (4)	### Answer: TOSH ### Explanation: Definition: rubbish Hidden in(some of) plaTO'S Hipparchus. Answer: British slang, origin uncertain – blend of "trash" and "bosh"?
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Fancy one after church before mother rings up again? (7)	### Answer: CHIMERA ### Explanation: Definition: Fancy [I(Roman numeral for "one") placed below(after, in a down clue) CH(abbrev. for $$ch$$urch, the building)] placed above(before, in a down clue) [MA(mother,mama) containing(rings) reversal of(up, in a down clue) RE(the prefix signifying a repeat action,again)]. A somewhat preposition-heavy construction. Answer: A wild and unrealistic dream or notion,a fancy.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Injury time needed after Canadian centre back stands on Maradona's head (6)	### Answer: DAMAGE ### Explanation: Definition: Injury AGE(a period of time) placed below(needed after, in a down clue) [reversal of(back) AD(middle two letters,centre of "Canadian") placed above(stands on, in a down clue) M(initial letter,head of "Maradona"]. Another clunky construction?
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Came across the Queen embracing old space traveller (6)	### Answer: METEOR ### Explanation: Definition: space traveller MET(came across,encountered) + [ER($$E$$lizabeth $$R$$egina,the Queen) containing(embracing) O(abbrev. for $$o$$ld)]
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: European country – not Norway (5)	### Answer: SWEDE ### Explanation: Definition: European "Sweden"(country) minus(not) N(International Vehicle Registration code for Norway). Answer: A European from Sweden.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Put out fire (9)	### Answer: DISCHARGE ### Explanation: Definition: Put out,fire Double defn: 1st: Put out,release, as in "discharge from prison"; and 2nd: To fire a firearm.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Entrance for spectators (4)	### Answer: GATE ### Explanation: Definition: Entrance,spectators Double defn: 2nd: Collective noun for spectators at a sporting event, say.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: First love, with a girl in torment (8)	### Answer: ORIGINAL ### Explanation: Definition: First O(looks like zero,nil,love as in tennis scores) plus(with) anagram of(torment) A GIRL IN. Penultimate one in – nice surface concealing well the definition and anagram indicator.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: European may be French (6)	### Answer: POLISH ### Explanation: Definition: European,may be French Double defn: 1st: Descriptive of someone from Poland; and 2nd: An example,may be of furniture polish, not of French but Asian origin, the main ingredient of which is shellac, purified from the secretion from the lac beetle deposited on trees. The art of using this polish was refined by the French in 18thcentury, in return for which, it was named after them.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Bunk with a woman! (6)	### Answer: BERTHA ### Explanation: Definition: woman BERTH(a shelf-like sleeping place on, say, a ship,a bunk,bed) plus(with) A. First nautical reference, and as risqué as Rufus gets! Answer: A woman's name, from on Old High Germanic for "bright".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Leave out one note in introductory piece (8)	### Answer: PRECLUDE ### Explanation: Definition: Leave out C(one note from the musical scale of A to G) contained in(in) PRELUDE(introductory piece as part of a longer work or preceding a more important movement, a musical foreplay)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Free-for-all sort of arrangement (6)	### Answer: FLORAL ### Explanation: Definition: sort of arrangement Anagram of(free) FOR-ALL. Clever anagram indicator, hidden amongst 2 other potential ones ("sort" and "arrangement"). Where does a wise man hide a leaf? Answer: An example,sort of arrangement, using, mainly, flowers.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Widespread, half in verse (8)	### Answer: EPIDEMIC ### Explanation: Definition: Widespread DEMI(prefix indicating half, as in the musical notes, demisemiquaver, and, even more – less, really – hemidemisemiquaver) contained in(in) EPIC(a long poetic composition,verse).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Inducts into office when answer is correct (6,2)	### Answer: SWEARS IN ### Explanation: Definition: Inducts into office Anagram of(correct) ANSWER 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: Attacked and bombed at random (6)	### Answer: MOBBED ### Explanation: Definition: Attacked Anagram of(at random) BOMBED. Answer: Set upon,attacked by a, well, mob, either because they hate you or love you.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Struggles to maintain faith in the past (8)	### Answer: CRUSADES ### Explanation: Definition: Struggles to maintain faith in the past Cryptic defn: With an initial capital letter, the military expeditions in the 11-13th centuries,past by the Christians in Europe to recover the Holy Land from the Muslims.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Agree it's of small account and acquiesce (6)	### Answer: ACCEDE ### Explanation: Definition: Agree AC(abbrev. for,small "account") plus(and) CEDE(acquiesce,give way 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: He's learned to park a vehicle in the street (6)	### Answer: SAVANT ### Explanation: Definition: He's learned [A VAN(a vehicle)] contained in(park…in) ST(abbrev. for street). Answer: A man of profound or extensive learning,a learned (2 syllables) scholar. An amusing 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: Intent on rendering two notes on an instrument (8)	### Answer: RESOLUTE ### Explanation: Definition: Intent [RE + SO](a drop of golden sun and a needle pulling thread respectively, two notes from the sol-fa musical scale) plus(on an) LUTE(an old-fashioned stringed musical instrument)
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 object to an average standard (4)	### Answer: MEAN ### Explanation: Definition: average standard ME(the objective case, in grammar, of the pronoun I) plus(to) AN.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Hoist sail to break loose from personal unpleasantness (9)	### Answer: HALITOSIS ### Explanation: Definition: personal unpleasantness Anagram of(to break loose) HOIST SAIL. Answer: Aka bad breath.
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 strain of mourning (5)	### Answer: DIRGE ### Explanation: Definition: The strain of mourning Cryptic defn: A tune,strain expressing mourning at a funeral. Another apt 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: Reg is involved with this trial shot (7)	### Answer: SIGHTER ### Explanation: Definition: trial shot Anagram of(is involved with) [REG + THIS]. Answer: In archery, one of the 6 practice,trial shots allowed to each competitor in a tournament. Last one in, as this meaning is new to me. Nicely hidden anagram indicator/fodder.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Layer on article turned to shade of red (5)	### Answer: HENNA ### Explanation: Definition: shade of red HEN(egg layer) placed above(on, in a down clue) NA{reversal of(turned) "an", the indefinite article}.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Not a change for the better (7)	### Answer: RELAPSE ### Explanation: Definition: Not a change for the better Cryptic defn: Not so cryptic? As a result, held me up a bit, as I was expecting something more.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Left for dead, for example (9)	### Answer: EUPHEMISM ### Explanation: Definition: Left for dead, for example Cryptic defn: "Left" as a substitute word for "(dearly) departed","dead" is an example of a euphemism.
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 an Israeli region I allege, wrongly (7)	### Answer: GALILEE ### Explanation: Definition: It's an Israeli region Anagram of(wrongly) I ALLEGE.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Straight hit in international cricket — going for a run (4,5)	### Answer: TEST DRIVE ### Explanation: Definition: a run DRIVE(a batting stroke,hit in cricket with the bat swinging more or less vertically, and the ball going very hard and straight) during a TEST(an international cricket match). Nice cricketing surface of aggressive play by a batsman – what's required to make the match more watchable 🙂 . Answer: A test run in a car to see if you would want to buy it – assuming there's a colour you 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: Inferior position he's in, not I (5,4)	### Answer: LOWER CASE ### Explanation: Definition: Inferior position Cryptic defn: The word "he" is,'s in LOWER(inferior) CASE(position,situation,state of things) letters, unlike,not "I".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Where to make a final stand in trench warfare? (4,5)	### Answer: LAST DITCH ### Explanation: Definition: Where to make a final stand Cryptic defn: A last effort to avoid defeat,final stand, and if it's trench warfare, it will be at the last trench,ditch you're defending.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Refuse to vote, putting Jack on the spot (7)	### Answer: ABSTAIN ### Explanation: Definition: Refuse to vote AB(abbrev. for $$A$$ble-$$B$$odied seaman,Jack Tar) placed above(putting…on, in a down clue) STAIN(spot,blemish).
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 joins another for a breather (7)	### Answer: NOSTRIL ### Explanation: Definition: a breather Cryptic defn: A breathing hole,breather that comes in pairs,joins another. Again not so cryptic.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Secures damages (7)	### Answer: BUCKLES ### Explanation: Definition: Secures,damages Double defn: 1st: What one does with one's seat belt before driving off; and 2nd: To cause something to bend or warp,damage through pressure or heat.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Advantage point in a number of games (5)	### Answer: ASSET ### Explanation: Definition: Advantage S(abbrev. for south,compass point) contained in(in) [A SET](in, say, tennis, a point gained or lost after a number of games played, as indicated in the hierarchy "game, set and match". Nice tennis 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: Takes a girl out fruit (5)	### Answer: DATES ### Explanation: Definition: Takes a girl out,fruit Double defn. Edit.note: Answers: Picture 2 . Picture 5 . Picture 6 from 5th paragraph (skip the political commentary). Picture 8 . Picture 9 . Picture 10 . Rest of the answers in various comments below.
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 cut (6)	### Answer: EXCISE ### Explanation: Definition: Tax,cut 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: A standard love affair for a courtesan (8)	### Answer: PARAMOUR ### Explanation: Definition: a courtesan PAR(a standard,a usual, average, or normal amount/degree/quality, eg."Par for solving a Dante crossword is 5 minutes" – nah! Only kidding!) + AMOUR(love affair)
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 be mad with rage – or love (6)	### Answer: ADMIRE ### Explanation: Definition: love Anagram of(could be) MAD plus(with) IRE(rage,anger). Defn: 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: Force to put one form of transport before another (8)	### Answer: RAILROAD ### Explanation: Definition: Force RAIL(one form,type of transport) placed before(before) ROAD(another form of transport)..
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Document to be filled in by don or graduate (3,5)	### Answer: PRO FORMA ### Explanation: Definition: Document to be filled in PROF(short for "professor",don at a learning institution) + OR + MA(abbrev. for $$M$$aster of $$A$$rts,a graduate). Answer: From the Latin, meaning "for the sake of form" or "as a matter of form". Therefore strictly an adjective (or adverb) in eg. a pro-forma invoice, which is an advance document, not the actual invoice. However, it appears that in the UK, the word has evolved into a noun, meaning a document to be completed,filled in; a meaning given in OED, but not in American dictionaries – I know, it's a crossword in an English newspaper. 🙂
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 involves two banks in a row (6)	### Answer: BIREME ### Explanation: Definition: It involves two banks in a row Cryptic defn: "It" refers to an ancient galley with two banks,tiers of rowers; from the Latin bis (twice) + remus (oar).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Still on level terms (4)	### Answer: EVEN ### Explanation: Definition: Still,on level terms Double defn: 1st: Still,yet, used to emphasise a comparative, eg. still/even more complaints; and 2nd: Of equal or balanced score, quality, quantity, condition, etc. between/amongst two or more parties.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Rousing songs (4,6)	### Answer: DAWN CHORUS ### Explanation: Definition: Rousing songs Cryptic defn: The sound of bird songs at dawn, to rouse you.

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

### Clue: City presenting huge temptation for gardener (3,5)

### Answer: BIG APPLE ### Explanation: Definition: City BIG(huge) APPLE(the symbol of temptation presented to Eve, who, as a resident of the Garden of Eden could be called a Gardener, just as eg. an Englander). Answer: Nickname for New York City.

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

### Clue: Party song going round America (8)

### Answer: CAROUSAL ### Explanation: Definition: Party CAROL(a Christmas song) **containing**(going round) USA(America). Answer: More a drunken feast than a party. I had this word 2 days ago, as well, so it was still fresh in my 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: It's said to be very short 'orticultural book (6)

### Answer: VERBAL ### Explanation: Definition: It's said V(abbrev.,short for very) + 'ERBAL("herbal",a "horticultural" book about herbs and plants, usually about their medicinal value, with the two words unaspirated).

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

### Clue: Special symbol must be suitable with national award being set up (5)

### Answer: MOTIF ### Explanation: Definition: Special symbol **Reversal of**(being set up) [FIT(suitable,apt) **plus**(with) O.M.(abbrev. for the Order of Merit, an award conferred by the monarch]. Answer: A distinctive symbol, figure or shape that recurs in a design. The meaning also includes an added decoration, like a symbol, on a piece of clothing.

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

### Clue: Useless timber? (6)

### Answer: LUMBER ### Explanation: Definition: Useless timber Cryptic defn: Timber cut into pieces, which may,? become useless household articles,lumber stored away – the attic being a favourite 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: Article Mail's reprinted on a living organism (6)

### Answer: ANIMAL ### Explanation: Definition: living organism AN(the indefinite article used with nouns beginning with a vowel sound) + **anagram of**(reprinted) MAIL.

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

### Clue: Annoying youngster or model of significance? (6)

### Answer: IMPORT ### Explanation: Definition: significance IMP(annoying,mischievous child,youngster) + OR + T(from the early Ford car, the model T).

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

### Clue: Draw a parallel with prior notice; it's good enough (8)

### Answer: ADEQUATE ### Explanation: Definition: good enough EQUATE(to draw a parallel to) **plus**(with) AD(short for advertisement,a notice) **placed before**(prior).

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

### Clue: Some on-board entertainment creates an impression (4)

### Answer: DENT ### Explanation: Definition: impression **Hidden in**(some) on-boarD ENTertainment. Answer: A physical impression,a depression.

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 place of "occupier" see "officer" (10)

### Answer: LIEUTENANT ### Explanation: Definition: officer LIEU(in place of) + TENANT(an occupier of a let premises).

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

### Clue: Attractive girl has a lot of money (6,5)

### Answer: PRETTY PENNY ### Explanation: Definition: a lot of money PRETTY(attractive) PENNY(girl's name). Answer: As in "That party must have put him back a pretty penny."

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

### Clue: Organic process demolished mobile mast (10)

### Answer: METABOLISM ### Explanation: Definition: Organic process **Anagram of**(demolished) MOBILE MAST.

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

### Clue: Seven days sound pathetic (4)

### Answer: WEAK ### Explanation: Definition: pathetic **Homophone of**(sound) "week",period of seven days. Defn: Miserably inadequate.

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

### Clue: Go indirectly by perimeter roads (8)

### Answer: SIDEWAYS ### Explanation: Definition: Go indirectly SIDE(the perimeter, as opposed to the centre) + WAYS(roads). Answer: To approach,go indirectly, as opposed to head-on.

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

### Clue: Marina arranged to produce flier (6)

### Answer: AIRMAN ### Explanation: Definition: flier **Anagram of**(arranged) MARINA.

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

### Clue: Boss's one love is his workplace (6)

### Answer: STUDIO ### Explanation: Definition: workplace STUD(a boss,a protuberance) + I(Roman numeral for "one") + O(looks like zero,love,as in tennis scores).

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

### Clue: Get wind of a piece of cake (6)

### Answer: BREEZE ### Explanation: Definition: Get wind,a piece of cake Double defn: 1st: Verb, as in "It breezes from the west."; and 2nd: An easy task, as in "Solving crosswords is a breeze,a piece of cake nowadays with the help of the Internet."

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 am Bill and I make false claims (8)

### Answer: IMPOSTER ### Explanation: Definition: I make false claims I'M(contraction of "I am") + POSTER(a bill,an advertisement that is hung up/posted/pasted on a wall).

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

### Clue: Intellectual lament broadcast (6)

### Answer: MENTAL ### Explanation: Definition: Intellectual **Anagram of**(broadcast) LAMENT. Answer: As in "Solving crosswords is an intellectual,mental exercise."

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

### Clue: Disturb peacekeepers on bench (8)

### Answer: UNSETTLE ### Explanation: Definition: Disturb UN(abbrev. for the United Nations Organisation, part of whose function is be peacekeeper to the world) **placed above**(on, in a down clue) SETTLE(a long seat,bench).

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

### Clue: Criticise "One Man and His Dog" on a point (6)

### Answer: IMPUGN ### Explanation: Definition: Criticise I(Roman numeral for "one") + M(abbrev. for "male",man, usually seen on forms in a box asking if you're M/F) **plus**(and) PUG(a breed of dog) **placed above**(on, in a down clue) N(abbrev. for "north",a 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: Mountaineer lost his head but remained flexible (6)

### Answer: LIMBER ### Explanation: Definition: flexible "climber",mountaineer **minus**(lost) its initial letter,his 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: Potential to reveal fresh talent (6)

### Answer: LATENT ### Explanation: Definition: Potential **Anagram of**(fresh) TALENT. Answer: That, eg. talent, which is not apparent, but is there to surface,be released at some time,potential.

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

### Clue: Assembly of fifty Asters security is the priority (6,5)

### Answer: SAFETY FIRST ### Explanation: Definition: security is the priority **Anagram of**(assembly of) FIFTY ASTERS.

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

### Clue: Cot and chair arranged about the chest (8)

### Answer: THORACIC ### Explanation: Definition: about the chest **Anagram of**(arranged) [COT **plus**(and) CHAIR]. Answer: Relating to,about the thorax,chest.

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 film showing modern southern dance (8)

### Answer: NEWSREEL ### Explanation: Definition: Short film NEW(modern) + S(abbrev. for southern) + REEL(a dance).

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

### Clue: Info on one American's wizardry (6)

### Answer: GENIUS ### Explanation: Definition: wizardry GEN(info, derived from $$gen$$eral information) **placed above**(on, in a down clue) I(Roman numeral for "one") US(American).

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

### Clue: Brutal attack (6)

### Answer: SAVAGE ### Explanation: Definition: Brutal,attack Double defn: 1st: As an adjective; and 2nd: 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: Way to get to a place for an event (6)

### Answer: AVENUE ### Explanation: Definition: Way A + VENUE(place for an event to be held). 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 thousand agree, perhaps it's skimpy (6)

### Answer: MEAGRE ### Explanation: Definition: skimpy M(Roman numeral for "thousand") + **anagram of**(perhaps) AGREE.

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

### Clue: Draw from French writer (8)

### Answer: DESCRIBE ### Explanation: Definition: Draw DE(French for "from") + SCRIBE(a writer, the meaning ranging from a journalist to a public clerk to a copyist). Answer: Eg. "to describe,draw a circle".

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

### Clue: Acquisitions from Mars (6)

### Answer: SPOILS ### Explanation: Definition: Acquisitions,Mars Double defn: 1st: What are gotten from others,acquisitions, especially after winning a war; and 2nd: Damages,mars. Nice surface as Mars is the Roman god of war.

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

### Clue: Spurn shot at swallow (4,4)

### Answer: TURN DOWN ### Explanation: Definition: Spurn TURN(one's turn to take a shot in a contest/game) **plus**(at) DOWN(to swallow a drink, especially quickly or in one gulp).

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

### Clue: Keep soldiers in check (6)

### Answer: RETAIN ### Explanation: Definition: Keep TA(abbrev. for $$T$$erritorial $$A$$rmy,soldiers) **contained in**(in) REIN(to check,limit,control)

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

### Clue: Rambling about new form of virus found in river (9)

### Answer: EXCURSIVE ### Explanation: Definition: Rambling **Anagram of**(new form of) VIRUS **contained in**(found in) EXE(a river in England, the name derived from the Celtic word for – surprise! – "water"; and giving its name to towns like Exeter and Exmouth). Answer: Descriptive of speech or thought that wanders,rambles round as if it were on an excursion.

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 taking part in exploit with soldiers (5)

### Answer: ACTOR ### Explanation: Definition: One taking part ACT(a deed,an exploit) **plus**(with) OR(abbrev. for $$o$$ther $$r$$anks,soldiers without a commission). Answer: One taking a role,part in a play, movie, etc.

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

### Clue: Dynasty's clout beginning to grow (4)

### Answer: TANG ### Explanation: Definition: Dynasty TAN(to beat,clout someone) + G(initial letter of,beginning to "grow"). Answer: The dynasty in China from 618 AD to 907 AD, except 690 – 705 AD. Edit.note re comment#1: ~~I hope I'm right about this as there is no indication like a "?","perhaps","maybe","say" that it is an example of a dynasty.~~

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

### Clue: Look closely at wound – it's ugly (7)

### Answer: EYESORE ### Explanation: Definition: it's ugly EYE(look closely) **plus**(at) SORE(a wound that is especially painful or sensitive). Answer: A sight painfully ugly to look at, almost always man-made.

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

### Clue: Distinguished knight gripped by material on record company (7)

### Answer: EMINENT ### Explanation: Definition: Distinguished N(in chess notation, a knight chesspiece) **contained in**(gripped by) NET(fabric,material with a uniform mesh, serving as a foundation for various laces) **plus**(on – an odd positional indicator in this case, perhaps short for "tagged on to") EMI(the big record company which started off as "$$E$$lectrical and $$M$$usical $$I$$ndustries").

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

### Clue: Quote from it in church (4)

### Answer: CITE ### Explanation: Definition: Quote IT **contained in**(in) CE($$C$$hurch of $$E$$ngland). Defn: 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: Rex is inside numb with fear (5)

### Answer: DREAD ### Explanation: Definition: fear R(abbrev. for Latin Rex) **contained in**(is inside) DEAD(numb,but not to the extent of being deprived of life, as in "my leg feels dead".

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

### Clue: Priest, after his collapse, has various exercises to get trim (9)

### Answer: SHIPSHAPE ### Explanation: Definition: trim [P(abbrev. for $$p$$riest) ***placed after***(after) **anagram of**(collapse) HIS] + **anagram of**(various) HAS + PE(abbrev. for $$p$$hysical $$e$$xercises). Answer: Descriptive of something or someone that is in good shape,fit,trim for action, work, use, such as, well, a ship.

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

### Clue: Destroyed, like before, outside Germany (6)

### Answer: ERASED ### Explanation: Definition: Destroyed [ERE(before, poetically) **containing**(outside) AS(like, as in "fit as a fiddle")] + D(International Vehicle Registration code for Germany). Nicely misdirected by punctuation and word order.

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

### Clue: Produce blend of green tea (8)

### Answer: GENERATE ### Explanation: Definition: Produce **Anagram of**(blend of) GREEN TEA.

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 become liquefied by heat on board ship (6)

### Answer: SMELTS ### Explanation: Definition: Fish MELT(become liquefied by heat) **contained in**(on board) SS($$s$$team$$s$$hip). Answer: Any of various small silvery food fishes in northern waters.

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 an illegal act involving footballers taking Ecstasy (4,4)

### Answer: CAPE FEAR ### Explanation: Definition: Film CAPER(in slang, an illegal act, like a burglary, robbery, heist) **containing**(involving) [FA($$F$$ootball $$A$$ssociation, of footballers, what else?) **containing**(taking) E(abbrev. for the drug $$E$$cstasy)]

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 in two minds over hit during communist retreat (6)

### Answer: DITHER ### Explanation: Definition: Be in two minds **Anagram of**(over – acceptable as an anagram indicator?) HIT **contained in**(during) **reversal of**(retreat) RED(communist).

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

### Clue: Impressed by small business (6)

### Answer: STRUCK ### Explanation: Definition: Impressed S(abbrev. for $$s$$mall, clothes size that many women seem to desire) + TRUCK(dealings with,business, as in "I don't want to have any truck with him", or even specifically, barter trade). Answer: Impressed in a big way, as in "He was struck by her incredible intelligence".

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

### Clue: About to receive papers on Republican's addition to bill (5)

### Answer: RIDER ### Explanation: Definition: addition to bill [RE(Edit.note re comment#2: ~~short~~ Latin for regarding,about) **containing**(to receive) ID(abbrev. for identification,papers that prove you are who you are, perhaps?)] **placed above**(on, in a down clue) R(abbrev. for a member of the Republican Party).

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

### Clue: Not heard by Heather when making a delivery (7)

### Answer: BOWLING ### Explanation: Definition: making a delivery BOW{a knot, **homophone of**(heard) "not"} **plus**(by) LING(the heather, a low-growing evergreen shrub).

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

### Clue: Widely accepted in time after vicar meets Capone in prison (9)

### Answer: PREVALENT ### Explanation: Definition: Widely accepted T(abbrev. for time) **placed below**(after, in a down clue) [{REV(short for "reverend",member of the clergy, who could be a vicar) **plus**(meets) AL(Capone, Chicago gangster who spent time in the pen)} **contained in**(in) PEN(short for penitentiary,Americanism for 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 cannot bend over international's laziness (8)

### Answer: INACTION ### Explanation: Definition: laziness **Anagram of**(bend) [I CANNOT] **containing**(over) I(abbrev. for $$i$$nternational).

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

### Clue: Guards train carrying books (8)

### Answer: SENTRIES ### Explanation: Definition: Guards SERIES(a series or row of objects or parts,a train) **containing**(carrying) NT(abbrev. for the New Testament, books in the Bible)

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

### Clue: Honour Lot in speech (4)

### Answer: FETE ### Explanation: Definition: Honour **Homophone of**(in speech) "fate"(one's lot,destiny). Answer: To honour with a fete which could be festive or religious, or both.

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 month after reform hospital department shows a change for the better (9)

### Answer: AMENDMENT ### Explanation: Definition: change for the better A + [M(abbrev. for $$m$$onth) **placed below**(after, in a down clue) MEND(to reform,repair)] + ENT(abbrev. for $$E$$ar, $$N$$ose and $$T$$hroat department in a hospital).

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

### Clue: Section on obelisks is unnecessary (8)

### Answer: NEEDLESS ### Explanation: Definition: unnecessary S(abbrev. for $$s$$ection) **plus**(on – cf. comment in 19 Across) NEEDLES(obelisks,tapering four-sided shafts of stone, as in Cleopatra's Needle).

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

### Clue: Release story about bishop on speed (8)

### Answer: LIBERATE ### Explanation: Definition: Release [LIE(story,fib) **containing**(about) B(in chess notation, the bishop chesspiece) ] **placed above**(on, in a down clue) RATE(of travel,speed – not the drug this 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: Some of Plato's Hipparchus is rubbish (4)

### Answer: TOSH ### Explanation: Definition: rubbish **Hidden in**(some of) plaTO'S Hipparchus. Answer: British slang, origin uncertain – blend of "trash" and "bosh"?

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

### Clue: Fancy one after church before mother rings up again? (7)

### Answer: CHIMERA ### Explanation: Definition: Fancy [I(Roman numeral for "one") **placed below**(after, in a down clue) CH(abbrev. for $$ch$$urch, the building)] **placed above**(before, in a down clue) [MA(mother,mama) **containing**(rings) **reversal of**(up, in a down clue) RE(the prefix signifying a repeat action,again)]. A somewhat preposition-heavy construction. Answer: A wild and unrealistic dream or notion,a fancy.

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

### Clue: Injury time needed after Canadian centre back stands on Maradona's head (6)

### Answer: DAMAGE ### Explanation: Definition: Injury AGE(a period of time) **placed below**(needed after, in a down clue) [**reversal of**(back) AD(middle two letters,centre of "Canadian") **placed above**(stands on, in a down clue) M(initial letter,head of "Maradona"]. Another clunky construction?

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

### Clue: Came across the Queen embracing old space traveller (6)

### Answer: METEOR ### Explanation: Definition: space traveller MET(came across,encountered) + [ER($$E$$lizabeth $$R$$egina,the Queen) **containing**(embracing) O(abbrev. for $$o$$ld)]

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

### Clue: European country – not Norway (5)

### Answer: SWEDE ### Explanation: Definition: European "Sweden"(country) **minus**(not) N(International Vehicle Registration code for Norway). Answer: A European from Sweden.

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

### Clue: Put out fire (9)

### Answer: DISCHARGE ### Explanation: Definition: Put out,fire Double defn: 1st: Put out,release, as in "discharge from prison"; and 2nd: To fire a firearm.

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

### Clue: Entrance for spectators (4)

### Answer: GATE ### Explanation: Definition: Entrance,spectators Double defn: 2nd: Collective noun for spectators at a sporting event, say.

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

### Clue: First love, with a girl in torment (8)

### Answer: ORIGINAL ### Explanation: Definition: First O(looks like zero,nil,love as in tennis scores) **plus**(with) **anagram of**(torment) A GIRL IN. Penultimate one in – nice surface concealing well the definition and anagram indicator.

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

### Clue: European may be French (6)

### Answer: POLISH ### Explanation: Definition: European,may be French Double defn: 1st: Descriptive of someone from Poland; and 2nd: An example,may be of furniture polish, not of French but Asian origin, the main ingredient of which is shellac, purified from the secretion from the lac beetle deposited on trees. The art of using this polish was refined by the French in 18thcentury, in return for which, it was named after them.

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

### Clue: Bunk with a woman! (6)

### Answer: BERTHA ### Explanation: Definition: woman BERTH(a shelf-like sleeping place on, say, a ship,a bunk,bed) **plus**(with) A. First nautical reference, and as risqué as Rufus gets! Answer: A woman's name, from on Old High Germanic for "bright".

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

### Clue: Leave out one note in introductory piece (8)

### Answer: PRECLUDE ### Explanation: Definition: Leave out C(one note from the musical scale of A to G) **contained in**(in) PRELUDE(introductory piece as part of a longer work or preceding a more important movement, a musical foreplay)

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

### Clue: Free-for-all sort of arrangement (6)

### Answer: FLORAL ### Explanation: Definition: sort of arrangement **Anagram of**(free) FOR-ALL. Clever anagram indicator, hidden amongst 2 other potential ones ("sort" and "arrangement"). Where does a wise man hide a leaf? Answer: An example,sort of arrangement, using, mainly, flowers.

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

### Clue: Widespread, half in verse (8)

### Answer: EPIDEMIC ### Explanation: Definition: Widespread DEMI(prefix indicating half, as in the musical notes, demisemiquaver, and, even more – less, really – hemidemisemiquaver) **contained in**(in) EPIC(a long poetic composition,verse).

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

### Clue: Inducts into office when answer is correct (6,2)

### Answer: SWEARS IN ### Explanation: Definition: Inducts into office **Anagram of**(correct) ANSWER 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: Attacked and bombed at random (6)

### Answer: MOBBED ### Explanation: Definition: Attacked **Anagram of**(at random) BOMBED. Answer: Set upon,attacked by a, well, mob, either because they hate you or love you.

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

### Clue: Struggles to maintain faith in the past (8)

### Answer: CRUSADES ### Explanation: Definition: Struggles to maintain faith in the past Cryptic defn: With an initial capital letter, the military expeditions in the 11-13th centuries,past by the Christians in Europe to recover the Holy Land from the Muslims.

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

### Clue: Agree it's of small account and acquiesce (6)

### Answer: ACCEDE ### Explanation: Definition: Agree AC(abbrev. for,small "account") **plus**(and) CEDE(acquiesce,give way 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: He's learned to park a vehicle in the street (6)

### Answer: SAVANT ### Explanation: Definition: He's learned [A VAN(a vehicle)] **contained in**(park…in) ST(abbrev. for street). Answer: A man of profound or extensive learning,a learned (2 syllables) scholar. An amusing 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: Intent on rendering two notes on an instrument (8)

### Answer: RESOLUTE ### Explanation: Definition: Intent [RE + SO](a drop of golden sun and a needle pulling thread respectively, two notes from the sol-fa musical scale) **plus**(on an) LUTE(an old-fashioned stringed musical instrument)

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 object to an average standard (4)

### Answer: MEAN ### Explanation: Definition: average standard ME(the objective case, in grammar, of the pronoun I) **plus**(to) AN.

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

### Clue: Hoist sail to break loose from personal unpleasantness (9)

### Answer: HALITOSIS ### Explanation: Definition: personal unpleasantness **Anagram of**(to break loose) HOIST SAIL. Answer: Aka bad breath.

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 strain of mourning (5)

### Answer: DIRGE ### Explanation: Definition: The strain of mourning Cryptic defn: A tune,strain expressing mourning at a funeral. Another apt 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: Reg is involved with this trial shot (7)

### Answer: SIGHTER ### Explanation: Definition: trial shot **Anagram of**(is involved with) [REG + THIS]. Answer: In archery, one of the 6 practice,trial shots allowed to each competitor in a tournament. Last one in, as this meaning is new to me. Nicely hidden anagram indicator/fodder.

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

### Clue: Layer on article turned to shade of red (5)

### Answer: HENNA ### Explanation: Definition: shade of red HEN(egg layer) **placed above**(on, in a down clue) NA{**reversal of**(turned) "an", the indefinite article}.

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

### Clue: Not a change for the better (7)

### Answer: RELAPSE ### Explanation: Definition: Not a change for the better Cryptic defn: Not so cryptic? As a result, held me up a bit, as I was expecting something more.

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

### Clue: Left for dead, for example (9)

### Answer: EUPHEMISM ### Explanation: Definition: Left for dead, for example Cryptic defn: "Left" as a substitute word for "(dearly) departed","dead" is an example of a euphemism.

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 an Israeli region I allege, wrongly (7)

### Answer: GALILEE ### Explanation: Definition: It's an Israeli region **Anagram of**(wrongly) I ALLEGE.

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

### Clue: Straight hit in international cricket — going for a run (4,5)

### Answer: TEST DRIVE ### Explanation: Definition: a run DRIVE(a batting stroke,hit in cricket with the bat swinging more or less vertically, and the ball going very hard and straight) during a TEST(an international cricket match). Nice cricketing surface of aggressive play by a batsman – what's required to make the match more watchable 🙂 . Answer: A test run in a car to see if you would want to buy it – assuming there's a colour you 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: Inferior position he's in, not I (5,4)

### Answer: LOWER CASE ### Explanation: Definition: Inferior position Cryptic defn: The word "he" is,'s in LOWER(inferior) CASE(position,situation,state of things) letters, unlike,not "I".

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

### Clue: Where to make a final stand in trench warfare? (4,5)

### Answer: LAST DITCH ### Explanation: Definition: Where to make a final stand Cryptic defn: A last effort to avoid defeat,final stand, and if it's trench warfare, it will be at the last trench,ditch you're defending.

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

### Clue: Refuse to vote, putting Jack on the spot (7)

### Answer: ABSTAIN ### Explanation: Definition: Refuse to vote AB(abbrev. for $$A$$ble-$$B$$odied seaman,Jack Tar) **placed above**(putting…on, in a down clue) STAIN(spot,blemish).

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 joins another for a breather (7)

### Answer: NOSTRIL ### Explanation: Definition: a breather Cryptic defn: A breathing hole,breather that comes in pairs,joins another. Again not so cryptic.

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

### Clue: Secures damages (7)

### Answer: BUCKLES ### Explanation: Definition: Secures,damages Double defn: 1st: What one does with one's seat belt before driving off; and 2nd: To cause something to bend or warp,damage through pressure or heat.

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

### Clue: Advantage point in a number of games (5)

### Answer: ASSET ### Explanation: Definition: Advantage S(abbrev. for south,compass point) **contained in**(in) [A SET](in, say, tennis, a point gained or lost after a number of games played, as indicated in the hierarchy "game, set and match". Nice tennis 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: Takes a girl out fruit (5)

### Answer: DATES ### Explanation: Definition: Takes a girl out,fruit Double defn. Edit.note: Answers: Picture 2 . Picture 5 . Picture 6 from 5th paragraph (skip the political commentary). Picture 8 . Picture 9 . Picture 10 . Rest of the answers in various comments below.

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 cut (6)

### Answer: EXCISE ### Explanation: Definition: Tax,cut 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: A standard love affair for a courtesan (8)

### Answer: PARAMOUR ### Explanation: Definition: a courtesan PAR(a standard,a usual, average, or normal amount/degree/quality, eg."Par for solving a Dante crossword is 5 minutes" – nah! Only kidding!) + AMOUR(love affair)

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 be mad with rage – or love (6)

### Answer: ADMIRE ### Explanation: Definition: love **Anagram of**(could be) MAD **plus**(with) IRE(rage,anger). Defn: 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: Force to put one form of transport before another (8)

### Answer: RAILROAD ### Explanation: Definition: Force RAIL(one form,type of transport) **placed before**(before) ROAD(another form of transport)..

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

### Clue: Document to be filled in by don or graduate (3,5)

### Answer: PRO FORMA ### Explanation: Definition: Document to be filled in PROF(short for "professor",don at a learning institution) + OR + MA(abbrev. for $$M$$aster of $$A$$rts,a graduate). Answer: From the Latin, meaning "for the sake of form" or "as a matter of form". Therefore strictly an adjective (or adverb) in eg. a pro-forma invoice, which is an advance document, not the actual invoice. However, it appears that in the UK, the word has evolved into a noun, meaning a document to be completed,filled in; a meaning given in OED, but not in American dictionaries – I know, it's a crossword in an English newspaper. 🙂

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 involves two banks in a row (6)

### Answer: BIREME ### Explanation: Definition: It involves two banks in a row Cryptic defn: "It" refers to an ancient galley with two banks,tiers of rowers; from the Latin bis (twice) + remus (oar).

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

### Clue: Still on level terms (4)

### Answer: EVEN ### Explanation: Definition: Still,on level terms Double defn: 1st: Still,yet, used to emphasise a comparative, eg. still/even more complaints; and 2nd: Of equal or balanced score, quality, quantity, condition, etc. between/amongst two or more parties.

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

### Clue: Rousing songs (4,6)

### Answer: DAWN CHORUS ### Explanation: Definition: Rousing songs Cryptic defn: The sound of bird songs at dawn, to rouse you.