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: Follow timepiece for two hours on duty (8)	### Answer: DOGWATCH ### Explanation: Definition: two hours on duty DOG (follow) + WATCH (timepiece)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Don't take opportunity to succeed at university (4,2)	### Answer: PASS UP ### Explanation: Definition: Don't take opportunity PASS (succeed in an exam) + UP (at university)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Find position in the east (6)	### Answer: ORIENT ### Explanation: Definition: Find position Double definition
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Formerly, a fascist symbol broken in half (2,3)	### Answer: AS WAS ### Explanation: Definition: Formerly A SWAS[tika]
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 deserves woman's love (4)	### Answer: HERO ### Explanation: Definition: He deserves woman's love HER + O, and an extended definition
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Intended heartlessly to follow United as a penance (9)	### Answer: ATONEMENT ### Explanation: Definition: penance AT ONE (united) + ME[a]NT
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: America, for example, backing employment (5)	### Answer: USAGE ### Explanation: Definition: employment USA + reverse of E.G.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Stray doctor provided the end of treatment (5)	### Answer: DRIFT ### Explanation: Definition: Stray DR + IF (provided) + [treatmen]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: Result of dental anaesthesia overdose? Idiot! (9)	### Answer: NUMBSKULL ### Explanation: Definition: Idiot Too much anaesthetic might give you a NUMB SKULL
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 the middle of the red line (7)	### Answer: CENTRAL ### Explanation: Definition: In the middle Double definition – the Central Line is red on the London Underground map
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Title giving lad more trouble (7)	### Answer: EARLDOM ### Explanation: Definition: Title (LAD 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: Church chasing film vampire and bloodsucker (5)	### Answer: LEECH ### Explanation: Definition: bloodsucker LEE (Christopher Lee, who played Dracula in several films)
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 electronic sound endlessly made by buzzer (3)	### Answer: BEE ### Explanation: Definition: buzzer BEE[p]
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Animal is a shy bear, by the sound of it (5)	### Answer: COYPU ### Explanation: Definition: Animal COY + homophone of [Winnie the] "Pooh"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Number making heck of a racket in exam (7)	### Answer: ORDINAL ### Explanation: Definition: Number DIN in ORAL
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 resolution as jury split by two different articles (7)	### Answer: JANUARY ### Explanation: Definition: Time for resolution AN and A separately, in JURY, with a reference to New Year's resolution
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Strangely unrecognisable without being criminal (9)	### Answer: LARCENOUS ### Explanation: Definition: criminal UNRECOGNISABLE* less the letters of BEING
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 computers holding writer back (5)	### Answer: INEPT ### Explanation: Definition: Useless Reverse of PEN in IT (computers)
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 street where things happen (5)	### Answer: VENUE ### Explanation: Definition: where things happen AVENUE (street) less A
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Cockney pet mad about city (9)	### Answer: AMSTERDAM ### Explanation: Definition: city [h]AMSTER + reverse of MAD
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: What softens onion dhal, cooked with a tiny bit of turmeric (4,6)	### Answer: HAND LOTION ### Explanation: Definition: What softens Anagram of ONION DAHL + T[urmeric]
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Gambler seen on top of tavern, he may be the finest yet (6,4,4)	### Answer: BETTER THAN EVER ### Explanation: Definition: the finest yet BETTER (gambler) + (TAVERN HE)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Boys back-to-back in the doghouse (6)	### Answer: KENNEL ### Explanation: Definition: doghouse KEN + reverse of LEN
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Deep trouble following street in the morning rush (8)	### Answer: STAMPEDE ### Explanation: Definition: rush ST + AM (in the morning) + DEEP
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Crazy nightmare might be the case for Brazil (8)	### Answer: NUTSHELL ### Explanation: Definition: case for Brazil NUTS (crazy) HELL (nightmare)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Study Arabic, half drunk, for 24 hours (8)	### Answer: SATURDAY ### Explanation: Definition: 24 hours Anagram of STUDY + half of ARA[bic]
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: G'day! Swap taps for some strings (5)	### Answer: CELLO ### Explanation: Definition: some strings HELLO with H[ot] replaced by C[old]
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Side and corner shot? Think again! (10)	### Answer: RECONSIDER ### Explanation: Definition: Think again (SIDE CORNER)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Quiet and timid, like Mickey, Jerry or Stuart? (5)	### Answer: MOUSY ### Explanation: Definition: Quiet and timid Double definition – Mickey and Jerry are very well known mice, Stuart perhaps less obvious
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Long-term, it's said you are in the finale (8)	### Answer: ENDURING ### Explanation: Definition: Long-term Homophone of "you are" in ENDING
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Raise little dog just for one's holiday home? (8)	### Answer: BALMORAL ### Explanation: Definition: one's holiday home Reverse of LAB[rador] MORAL (just); "one's" shows that it's the Queen's holiday home, though I think she stopped referring to herself as "one" some time ago, at least in public. I've always suspected this was because she was lampooned for it, as with her other catchphrase "my husband and I", which she also doesn't use any 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: Fair, therefore bang on (4,2)	### Answer: JUST SO ### Explanation: Definition: bang on JUST (fair) + SO (therefore)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Schedule non-disclosure agreement after a long time (6)	### Answer: AGENDA ### Explanation: Definition: Schedule AGE + NDA
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Nothing to be found between 13 down and 28 (4)	### Answer: LOVE ### Explanation: Definition: Nothing ~~If you put O (zero, nothing) between 13d and 27a then we see ordinaL O VEnue; it's not really an &lit (aka clue as definition), but that's the general idea~~ *Ignore that rubbish: it's hidden in celLO + VEnue – thanks wooden_tree
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Volume of customers (4)	### Answer: TOME ### Explanation: Definition: Volume Hidden in cusTOMErs
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Hear simple story swapped on an aircraft (9)	### Answer: TAILPLANE ### Explanation: Definition: on an aircraft Homophone of "plain tail" with the elements interchanged. I don't like "on an aircraft" for "part of an aircraft": it's like my bugbear of "in France" for "a place in France"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Man has trip, one in France (5)	### Answer: SHAUN ### Explanation: Definition: Man HAS* + UN (French for "one")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Saint even broke into two churches? Yes, that's risky (7)	### Answer: CHANCEY ### Explanation: Definition: risky Even letters of sAiNt in CH + CE, plus Y. A rather odd-looking spelling, but it's in the dictionaries
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Touches margins, moving right towards the end (7)	### Answer: FINGERS ### Explanation: Definition: Touches FRINGES with the R moved almost to the end
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Welsh party rejected holding hands with everyone (5)	### Answer: WORLD ### Explanation: Definition: everyone R[ight] and L[eft] in W + reverse of DO
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Children's workspaces? Just the opposite (9)	### Answer: PLAYROOMS ### Explanation: Definition: Children's workspaces? Just the opposite The best way I can find to parse this is that PLAY is "Children's work", plus ROOMS for "spaces", but it seems rather weak; maybe I'm missing something
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Around court, Michael Corleone's worried, giving away no type of reaction (15)	### Answer: ELECTROCHEMICAL ### Explanation: Definition: type of reaction CT in anagram of MICHAEL CORLEONE, less 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: More clean than a mouse? (9)	### Answer: SQUEAKIER ### Explanation: Definition: More clean double/cryptic definition, alluding to the expression "squeaky clean"
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 better with sore bum (5)	### Answer: WORSE ### Explanation: Definition: Not better W[ith] + SORE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Amount of fancy stiff upper lip, for starters (7)	### Answer: FISTFUL ### Explanation: Definition: Amount STIFF* + U[pper] L[ip]
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Clubs and diamonds: bridge often going over these (7)	### Answer: DRIVERS ### Explanation: Definition: Clubs D[iamonds] + RIVERS (what some bridges go over)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Menageries house mass of flies (5)	### Answer: ZOOMS ### Explanation: Definition: flies M in ZOOS
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Touring Panama, cooks get this food (9)	### Answer: SPAGHETTI ### Explanation: Definition: food PA in (GET THIS)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Small parasite sits on small bark of deciduous plants (10)	### Answer: STICKWEEDS ### Explanation: Definition: plants S + TICK (parasite) + WEE (small) + D[eciduou]S
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Compile grid with ease? No way! (8)	### Answer: DISAGREE ### Explanation: Definition: No way (GRID EASE)*. The definition seems to be the wrong part of speech, but I suppose you could consider the answer as an exclamation, like "no way!"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Arranged walk round Scotland's borders? On the contrary (6)	### Answer: SPACED ### Explanation: Definition: Arranged PACE in S[cotlan]D
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Young horse born inside (4)	### Answer: BABY ### Explanation: Definition: Young B in BAY
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Training note after he translated for old writer (3-7)	### Answer: PEN-FEATHER ### Explanation: Definition: old writer PE (training) + N + (AFTER HE)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Reynard's enemy is initially enjoying music over Ring cycle (8)	### Answer: ISENGRIM ### Explanation: Definition: Reynard's enemy IS + NGRI ("cycled" RING) in E[njoying] M[usic]. Isengrim is Reynard the Fox's uncle and enemy in the old fables
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Greta trades her soul for unknown European summer house (6)	### Answer: GAZEBO ### Explanation: Definition: summer house [Greta] GARBO with the middle letter or "soul" replaced by Z (unknown) E[uropean]. The surface is presumably referring to Greta Thunberg
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Finishes post from top to bottom (4)	### Answer: ENDS ### Explanation: Definition: Finishes SEND (post) with the S moved to the end, though "from to to bottom" doesn't really indicate this
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Expert is left gambling on dollar with no gain (10)	### Answer: PROFITLESS ### Explanation: Definition: with no gain PRO + (IS LEFT)* + S (from the dollar sign, $)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Argentine's family has type of small white onion (10)	### Answer: SILVERSKIN ### Explanation: Definition: type of small white onion SILVER'S KIN – Argentine literally means "silver"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Marine creature reportedly towed fellow by his pants (8)	### Answer: TOADFISH ### Explanation: Definition: Marine creature "Towed" + F + HIS* – an aptly named sea creature: also the nickname of a character in *Neighbours
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Instrument, somewhat forgotten, rockets to the sky (8)	### Answer: CORNETTO ### Explanation: Definition: Instrument Hidden in reverse of forgOTTEN ROCkets. As well as being a type of ice cream, the cornett or cornetto is an old musical instrument, not to be confused with the modern trumpet-like cornet
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Result involved in hitting a six? (6)	### Answer: UPSHOT ### Explanation: Definition: Result A batsman might score a six as a result of a SHOT that goes UPwards
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 flyer bearing straight (6)	### Answer: WRIGHT ### Explanation: Definition: First flyer W[est] (compass bearing) + RIGHT (straight); referring tp Wilbur Wright, though his was of course only the first powered flight
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 Boys in Blue, or Blur? (4)	### Answer: FUZZ ### Explanation: Definition: The Boys in Blue Double definition, "the fuzz" being slang (of uncertain origin – possibly from either "fuss" or "force") for the police (aka the boys in blue)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: After injecting drug, parent is numb (4)	### Answer: DEAD ### Explanation: Definition: numb E[cstasy] in DAD
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Grated cheese enveloping something in rank marinade (9)	### Answer: ESCABECHE ### Explanation: Definition: marinade CAB (taxi – found in a rank) in CHEESE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Dock unloaded citrus fruit and fish (4)	### Answer: SHAD ### Explanation: Definition: fish SHADDOCK (citrus fruit) less DOCK
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Indian language? See this cant I'd translated for a dictionary (5)	### Answer: ORIYA ### Explanation: Definition: Indian language Composite anagram: (A DICTIONARY)* = ORIYA CANT I'D
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Bit of money that's short in a payment for land measure (6)	### Answer: ARPENT ### Explanation: Definition: land measure P (abbreviation penny) in A RENT (payment); "land" could be attached to either "payment for" or "measure": I think "land measure" is the intended definition
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Revels? Disorderly sort limiting lives (6)	### Answer: ROISTS ### Explanation: Definition: Revels IS (lives) in SORT
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Mineral was smashed with end of sledge (7)	### Answer: GÖTHITE ### Explanation: Definition: Mineral GOT HIT + [sledg]E – an alternative spelling of the mineral Goethite, which is named after the poet Goethe
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 Asian tree alongside English poplar (5)	### Answer: ABELE ### Explanation: Definition: poplar A BEL (Asian tree) + E
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Ache being denied wine, making the old smirk (4)	### Answer: GREN ### Explanation: Definition: the old smirk GRENACHE (wine) less ACHE – old form of "grin"
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 gun cast in e.g. bronze, mature? See set of linguistic symbols (12)	### Answer: METALANGUAGE ### Explanation: Definition: set of linguistic symbols (A GUN)* in METAL + 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: Clever? It shows dash when you do (4)	### Answer: CUTE ### Explanation: Definition: Clever If you CUT the E from CUTE, you get CUT, one of whose definitions in Chambers is "to dash, go quickly" (as in "cut along!")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Points on the board, we hear? Low points (5)	### Answer: SCAWS ### Explanation: Definition: Low points Homophone (for non-rhotic speakers) of "scores"; a scaw is a low headland
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: You may see some lad excited by me (7)	### Answer: DAMOSEL ### Explanation: Definition: You may see some lad excited by me (SOME LAD)* &lit
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Seed coverings air buffeted around badly (6)	### Answer: ARILLI ### Explanation: Definition: Seed coverings ILL in AIR
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Milton wrote this of marsh plants (6)	### Answer: REEDEN ### Explanation: Definition: of marsh plants Milton wrote RE (about) [the garden of] EDEN in *Paradise Lost
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Its contents are arranged for printing, in the writer's opinion? (5)	### Answer: FORME ### Explanation: Definition: Its contents are arranged for printing FOR ME (in my opinion)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Sheila's irritable, still rebuffed about love (4)	### Answer: TOEY ### Explanation: Definition: Sheila's irritable O in reverse of YET (still) – Australian slang for "irritable"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Local watercourse in Britain, one revealing pike-like fish (9)	### Answer: GREEN-BONE ### Explanation: Definition: pike-like fish REEN (dialect word for a ditch or watercourse) in GB + ONE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Fruit cocktail and sandwich (requiring short time to open it)? (5)	### Answer: SHRUB ### Explanation: Definition: Fruit cocktail HR (abbreviated "hour") in SUB (sandwich); this shrub is "a mixed drink of lemon or other citrus fruit.."
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Delay once getting under lid for pill (6)	### Answer: CAPLET ### Explanation: Definition: pill CAP (lid) + LET (delay, marked as "archaic", but in the same sense as found in "let or hindrance")
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 stopper (4)	### Answer: BUNG ### Explanation: Definition: A stopper The competition word, or what should have been…
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Otic area pest, possibly a flea? (12)	### Answer: ECTOPARASITE ### Explanation: Definition: possibly a flea (OTIC AREA PEST)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Sydney harbour feature, note, in papier-mâché? (12)	### Answer: CARTON‑PIERRE ### Explanation: Definition: papier-mâché CARTON (Sydney, as in A Tale of Two Cities) + PIER (harbour feature)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Outsiders going for shoot that creates a carry-on (5)	### Answer: HOO-HA ### Explanation: Definition: carry-on sHOOt tHAt minus the outer letters of each word
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: What makes an Isis rite – i.e. in these being rattled? (6)	### Answer: SISTRA ### Explanation: Definition: What makes an Isis rite – i.e. in these being rattled Another composite anagram, and also and &lit. (AN ISIS RITE)* = I.E. IN SISTRA; plural of "sistrum", which is "an ancient Egyptian rattle, used in Isis-worship"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Bairn that's good, yet spoilt (4)	### Answer: GYTE ### Explanation: Definition: Bairn G + YET
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Dread Shakespearean blather and tortured tenses (9)	### Answer: GASTNESSE ### Explanation: Definition: Dread Shakespearean GAS (blather) + TENSES
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Dejected when damn rings puncture (7)	### Answer: DEFLATE ### Explanation: Definition: Dejected FLAT (a puncture) "ringed by" DEE (i.e. D, euphemism for "damn"), though the definition surely points to DEFLATED. *Thanks to Dansar for the correction: it's FLAT (dejected) in DEE, with "puncture" as the definition.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: What Baden Powell encouraged affected clubs, a large number (9)	### Answer: CAMPCRAFT ### Explanation: Definition: What Baden Powell encouraged CAMP (affected) + C[lubs] + RAFT (large number)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Hatch limitless wealth kept in pot (7)	### Answer: GUICHET ### Explanation: Definition: Hatch [r]ICHE[s] in GUT (pot[-belly]) – familiar as the French word for a ticket-office
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 among heavenly bodies in flight (6)	### Answer: STAIRS ### Explanation: Definition: flight I in STARS
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Nutritious fern, number fringing neglected road (6)	### Answer: NARDOO ### Explanation: Definition: Nutritious fern ROAD in NO (number)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Idle Aussie, very nippy by the sound of it (5)	### Answer: POLER ### Explanation: Definition: Idle Aussie Homophone of "polar", very cold; Australian slang for a shirker
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Eyesore? He admitted there's not so many in Scotland (5)	### Answer: WHEEN ### Explanation: Definition: not so many in Scotland HE in WEN (eyesore, as in "The Great Wen" for London); it's a Scots word for a few
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Smur in Glasgow or Dundee coming up (4)	### Answer: DROW ### Explanation: Definition: Smur Hidden in reverse of glasgoW OR Dundee; Chambers gives "fine misty rain" for "smur" and " drizzling mist" for DROW: there may be a subtle distinction between the two: in any case, both are familiar to those of us who regularly visit Scotland (for obvious reasons I have had to cancel my next visit, which was due in May)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Sprat (male) goes for this, a line that's loaded I cast (4)	### Answer: LEAN ### Explanation: Definition: Sprat (male) goes for this (A LINE)* less I, with a reference to the nursery rhyme: "Jack Sprat would eat no fat" (unlike his wife, hence the "(male)")
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 to attack endlessly unfair work conditions (4,4)	### Answer: ZERO HOUR ### Explanation: Definition: Time to attack A ZERO HOURS contract is where one is tied to an employer but with no guarantee of work; truncate that and you get the military expression

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

### Clue: Follow timepiece for two hours on duty (8)

### Answer: DOGWATCH ### Explanation: Definition: two hours on duty DOG (follow) + WATCH (timepiece)

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

### Clue: Don't take opportunity to succeed at university (4,2)

### Answer: PASS UP ### Explanation: Definition: Don't take opportunity PASS (succeed in an exam) + UP (at university)

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

### Clue: Find position in the east (6)

### Answer: ORIENT ### Explanation: Definition: Find position Double definition

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

### Clue: Formerly, a fascist symbol broken in half (2,3)

### Answer: AS WAS ### Explanation: Definition: Formerly A SWAS[tika]

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 deserves woman's love (4)

### Answer: HERO ### Explanation: Definition: He deserves woman's love HER + O, and an extended definition

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

### Clue: Intended heartlessly to follow United as a penance (9)

### Answer: ATONEMENT ### Explanation: Definition: penance AT ONE (united) + ME[a]NT

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

### Clue: America, for example, backing employment (5)

### Answer: USAGE ### Explanation: Definition: employment USA + reverse of E.G.

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

### Clue: Stray doctor provided the end of treatment (5)

### Answer: DRIFT ### Explanation: Definition: Stray DR + IF (provided) + [treatmen]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: Result of dental anaesthesia overdose? Idiot! (9)

### Answer: NUMBSKULL ### Explanation: Definition: Idiot Too much anaesthetic might give you a NUMB SKULL

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 the middle of the red line (7)

### Answer: CENTRAL ### Explanation: Definition: In the middle Double definition – the Central Line is red on the London Underground map

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

### Clue: Title giving lad more trouble (7)

### Answer: EARLDOM ### Explanation: Definition: Title (LAD 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: Church chasing film vampire and bloodsucker (5)

### Answer: LEECH ### Explanation: Definition: bloodsucker LEE (Christopher Lee, who played Dracula in several films)

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 electronic sound endlessly made by buzzer (3)

### Answer: BEE ### Explanation: Definition: buzzer BEE[p]

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

### Clue: Animal is a shy bear, by the sound of it (5)

### Answer: COYPU ### Explanation: Definition: Animal COY + homophone of [Winnie the] "Pooh"

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

### Clue: Number making heck of a racket in exam (7)

### Answer: ORDINAL ### Explanation: Definition: Number DIN in ORAL

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 resolution as jury split by two different articles (7)

### Answer: JANUARY ### Explanation: Definition: Time for resolution AN and A separately, in JURY, with a reference to New Year's resolution

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

### Clue: Strangely unrecognisable without being criminal (9)

### Answer: LARCENOUS ### Explanation: Definition: criminal UNRECOGNISABLE* less the letters of BEING

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 computers holding writer back (5)

### Answer: INEPT ### Explanation: Definition: Useless Reverse of PEN in IT (computers)

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 street where things happen (5)

### Answer: VENUE ### Explanation: Definition: where things happen AVENUE (street) less A

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

### Clue: Cockney pet mad about city (9)

### Answer: AMSTERDAM ### Explanation: Definition: city [h]AMSTER + reverse of MAD

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

### Clue: What softens onion dhal, cooked with a tiny bit of turmeric (4,6)

### Answer: HAND LOTION ### Explanation: Definition: What softens Anagram of ONION DAHL + T[urmeric]

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

### Clue: Gambler seen on top of tavern, he may be the finest yet (6,4,4)

### Answer: BETTER THAN EVER ### Explanation: Definition: the finest yet BETTER (gambler) + (TAVERN HE)

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

### Clue: Boys back-to-back in the doghouse (6)

### Answer: KENNEL ### Explanation: Definition: doghouse KEN + reverse of LEN

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

### Clue: Deep trouble following street in the morning rush (8)

### Answer: STAMPEDE ### Explanation: Definition: rush ST + AM (in the morning) + DEEP

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

### Clue: Crazy nightmare might be the case for Brazil (8)

### Answer: NUTSHELL ### Explanation: Definition: case for Brazil NUTS (crazy) HELL (nightmare)

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

### Clue: Study Arabic, half drunk, for 24 hours (8)

### Answer: SATURDAY ### Explanation: Definition: 24 hours Anagram of STUDY + half of ARA[bic]

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

### Clue: G'day! Swap taps for some strings (5)

### Answer: CELLO ### Explanation: Definition: some strings HELLO with H[ot] replaced by C[old]

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

### Clue: Side and corner shot? Think again! (10)

### Answer: RECONSIDER ### Explanation: Definition: Think again (SIDE CORNER)

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

### Clue: Quiet and timid, like Mickey, Jerry or Stuart? (5)

### Answer: MOUSY ### Explanation: Definition: Quiet and timid Double definition – Mickey and Jerry are very well known mice, Stuart perhaps less obvious

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

### Clue: Long-term, it's said you are in the finale (8)

### Answer: ENDURING ### Explanation: Definition: Long-term Homophone of "you are" in ENDING

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

### Clue: Raise little dog just for one's holiday home? (8)

### Answer: BALMORAL ### Explanation: Definition: one's holiday home Reverse of LAB[rador] MORAL (just); "one's" shows that it's the Queen's holiday home, though I think she stopped referring to herself as "one" some time ago, at least in public. I've always suspected this was because she was lampooned for it, as with her other catchphrase "my husband and I", which she also doesn't use any 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: Fair, therefore bang on (4,2)

### Answer: JUST SO ### Explanation: Definition: bang on JUST (fair) + SO (therefore)

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

### Clue: Schedule non-disclosure agreement after a long time (6)

### Answer: AGENDA ### Explanation: Definition: Schedule AGE + NDA

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

### Clue: Nothing to be found between 13 down and 28 (4)

### Answer: LOVE ### Explanation: Definition: Nothing ~~If you put O (zero, nothing) between 13d and 27a then we see ordina**L O VE**nue; it's not really an &lit (aka clue as definition), but that's the general idea~~ *Ignore that rubbish: it's hidden in celLO + VEnue – thanks wooden_tree

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

### Clue: Volume of customers (4)

### Answer: TOME ### Explanation: Definition: Volume Hidden in cusTOMErs

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

### Clue: Hear simple story swapped on an aircraft (9)

### Answer: TAILPLANE ### Explanation: Definition: on an aircraft Homophone of "plain tail" with the elements interchanged. I don't like "on an aircraft" for "part of an aircraft": it's like my bugbear of "in France" for "a place in France"

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

### Clue: Man has trip, one in France (5)

### Answer: SHAUN ### Explanation: Definition: Man HAS* + UN (French for "one")

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

### Clue: Saint even broke into two churches? Yes, that's risky (7)

### Answer: CHANCEY ### Explanation: Definition: risky Even letters of sAiNt in CH + CE, plus Y. A rather odd-looking spelling, but it's in the dictionaries

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

### Clue: Touches margins, moving right towards the end (7)

### Answer: FINGERS ### Explanation: Definition: Touches FRINGES with the R moved almost to the end

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

### Clue: Welsh party rejected holding hands with everyone (5)

### Answer: WORLD ### Explanation: Definition: everyone R[ight] and L[eft] in W + reverse of DO

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

### Clue: Children's workspaces? Just the opposite (9)

### Answer: PLAYROOMS ### Explanation: Definition: Children's workspaces? Just the opposite The best way I can find to parse this is that PLAY is "Children's work", plus ROOMS for "spaces", but it seems rather weak; maybe I'm missing something

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

### Clue: Around court, Michael Corleone's worried, giving away no type of reaction (15)

### Answer: ELECTROCHEMICAL ### Explanation: Definition: type of reaction CT in anagram of MICHAEL CORLEONE, less 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: More clean than a mouse? (9)

### Answer: SQUEAKIER ### Explanation: Definition: More clean double/cryptic definition, alluding to the expression "squeaky clean"

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 better with sore bum (5)

### Answer: WORSE ### Explanation: Definition: Not better W[ith] + SORE

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

### Clue: Amount of fancy stiff upper lip, for starters (7)

### Answer: FISTFUL ### Explanation: Definition: Amount STIFF* + U[pper] L[ip]

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

### Clue: Clubs and diamonds: bridge often going over these (7)

### Answer: DRIVERS ### Explanation: Definition: Clubs D[iamonds] + RIVERS (what some bridges go over)

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

### Clue: Menageries house mass of flies (5)

### Answer: ZOOMS ### Explanation: Definition: flies M in ZOOS

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

### Clue: Touring Panama, cooks get this food (9)

### Answer: SPAGHETTI ### Explanation: Definition: food PA in (GET THIS)

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

### Clue: Small parasite sits on small bark of deciduous plants (10)

### Answer: STICKWEEDS ### Explanation: Definition: plants S + TICK (parasite) + WEE (small) + D[eciduou]S

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

### Clue: Compile grid with ease? No way! (8)

### Answer: DISAGREE ### Explanation: Definition: No way (GRID EASE)*. The definition seems to be the wrong part of speech, but I suppose you could consider the answer as an exclamation, like "no way!"

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

### Clue: Arranged walk round Scotland's borders? On the contrary (6)

### Answer: SPACED ### Explanation: Definition: Arranged PACE in S[cotlan]D

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

### Clue: Young horse born inside (4)

### Answer: BABY ### Explanation: Definition: Young B in BAY

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

### Clue: Training note after he translated for old writer (3-7)

### Answer: PEN-FEATHER ### Explanation: Definition: old writer PE (training) + N + (AFTER HE)

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

### Clue: Reynard's enemy is initially enjoying music over Ring cycle (8)

### Answer: ISENGRIM ### Explanation: Definition: Reynard's enemy IS + NGRI ("cycled" RING) in E[njoying] M[usic]. Isengrim is Reynard the Fox's uncle and enemy in the old fables

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

### Clue: Greta trades her soul for unknown European summer house (6)

### Answer: GAZEBO ### Explanation: Definition: summer house [Greta] GARBO with the middle letter or "soul" replaced by Z (unknown) E[uropean]. The surface is presumably referring to Greta Thunberg

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

### Clue: Finishes post from top to bottom (4)

### Answer: ENDS ### Explanation: Definition: Finishes SEND (post) with the S moved to the end, though "from to to bottom" doesn't really indicate this

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

### Clue: Expert is left gambling on dollar with no gain (10)

### Answer: PROFITLESS ### Explanation: Definition: with no gain PRO + (IS LEFT)* + S (from the dollar sign, $)

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

### Clue: Argentine's family has type of small white onion (10)

### Answer: SILVERSKIN ### Explanation: Definition: type of small white onion SILVER'S KIN – Argentine literally means "silver"

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

### Clue: Marine creature reportedly towed fellow by his pants (8)

### Answer: TOADFISH ### Explanation: Definition: Marine creature "Towed" + F + HIS* – an aptly named sea creature: also the nickname of a character in *Neighbours

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

### Clue: Instrument, somewhat forgotten, rockets to the sky (8)

### Answer: CORNETTO ### Explanation: Definition: Instrument Hidden in reverse of forgOTTEN ROCkets. As well as being a type of ice cream, the cornett or cornetto is an old musical instrument, not to be confused with the modern trumpet-like cornet

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

### Clue: Result involved in hitting a six? (6)

### Answer: UPSHOT ### Explanation: Definition: Result A batsman might score a six as a result of a SHOT that goes UPwards

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 flyer bearing straight (6)

### Answer: WRIGHT ### Explanation: Definition: First flyer W[est] (compass bearing) + RIGHT (straight); referring tp Wilbur Wright, though his was of course only the first *powered* flight

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 Boys in Blue, or Blur? (4)

### Answer: FUZZ ### Explanation: Definition: The Boys in Blue Double definition, "the fuzz" being slang (of uncertain origin – possibly from either "fuss" or "force") for the police (aka the boys in blue)

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

### Clue: After injecting drug, parent is numb (4)

### Answer: DEAD ### Explanation: Definition: numb E[cstasy] in DAD

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

### Clue: Grated cheese enveloping something in rank marinade (9)

### Answer: ESCABECHE ### Explanation: Definition: marinade CAB (taxi – found in a rank) in CHEESE

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

### Clue: Dock unloaded citrus fruit and fish (4)

### Answer: SHAD ### Explanation: Definition: fish SHADDOCK (citrus fruit) less DOCK

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

### Clue: Indian language? See this cant I'd translated for a dictionary (5)

### Answer: ORIYA ### Explanation: Definition: Indian language Composite anagram: (A DICTIONARY)* = ORIYA CANT I'D

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

### Clue: Bit of money that's short in a payment for land measure (6)

### Answer: ARPENT ### Explanation: Definition: land measure P (abbreviation penny) in A RENT (payment); "land" could be attached to either "payment for" or "measure": I think "land measure" is the intended definition

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

### Clue: Revels? Disorderly sort limiting lives (6)

### Answer: ROISTS ### Explanation: Definition: Revels IS (lives) in SORT

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

### Clue: Mineral was smashed with end of sledge (7)

### Answer: GÖTHITE ### Explanation: Definition: Mineral GOT HIT + [sledg]E – an alternative spelling of the mineral Goethite, which is named after the poet Goethe

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 Asian tree alongside English poplar (5)

### Answer: ABELE ### Explanation: Definition: poplar A BEL (Asian tree) + E

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

### Clue: Ache being denied wine, making the old smirk (4)

### Answer: GREN ### Explanation: Definition: the old smirk GRENACHE (wine) less ACHE – old form of "grin"

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 gun cast in e.g. bronze, mature? See set of linguistic symbols (12)

### Answer: METALANGUAGE ### Explanation: Definition: set of linguistic symbols (A GUN)* in METAL + 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: Clever? It shows dash when you do (4)

### Answer: CUTE ### Explanation: Definition: Clever If you CUT the E from CUTE, you get CUT, one of whose definitions in Chambers is "to dash, go quickly" (as in "cut along!")

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

### Clue: Points on the board, we hear? Low points (5)

### Answer: SCAWS ### Explanation: Definition: Low points Homophone (for non-rhotic speakers) of "scores"; a scaw is a low headland

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

### Clue: You may see some lad excited by me (7)

### Answer: DAMOSEL ### Explanation: Definition: You may see some lad excited by me (SOME LAD)* &lit

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

### Clue: Seed coverings air buffeted around badly (6)

### Answer: ARILLI ### Explanation: Definition: Seed coverings ILL in AIR

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

### Clue: Milton wrote this of marsh plants (6)

### Answer: REEDEN ### Explanation: Definition: of marsh plants Milton wrote RE (about) [the garden of] EDEN in *Paradise Lost

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

### Clue: Its contents are arranged for printing, in the writer's opinion? (5)

### Answer: FORME ### Explanation: Definition: Its contents are arranged for printing FOR ME (in my opinion)

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

### Clue: Sheila's irritable, still rebuffed about love (4)

### Answer: TOEY ### Explanation: Definition: Sheila's irritable O in reverse of YET (still) – Australian slang for "irritable"

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

### Clue: Local watercourse in Britain, one revealing pike-like fish (9)

### Answer: GREEN-BONE ### Explanation: Definition: pike-like fish REEN (dialect word for a ditch or watercourse) in GB + ONE

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

### Clue: Fruit cocktail and sandwich (requiring short time to open it)? (5)

### Answer: SHRUB ### Explanation: Definition: Fruit cocktail HR (abbreviated "hour") in SUB (sandwich); this shrub is "a mixed drink of lemon or other citrus fruit.."

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

### Clue: Delay once getting under lid for pill (6)

### Answer: CAPLET ### Explanation: Definition: pill CAP (lid) + LET (delay, marked as "archaic", but in the same sense as found in "let or hindrance")

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 stopper (4)

### Answer: BUNG ### Explanation: Definition: A stopper The competition word, or what should have been…

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

### Clue: Otic area pest, possibly a flea? (12)

### Answer: ECTOPARASITE ### Explanation: Definition: possibly a flea (OTIC AREA PEST)

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

### Clue: Sydney harbour feature, note, in papier-mâché? (12)

### Answer: CARTON‑PIERRE ### Explanation: Definition: papier-mâché CARTON (Sydney, as in *A Tale of Two Cities*) + PIER (harbour feature)

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

### Clue: Outsiders going for shoot that creates a carry-on (5)

### Answer: HOO-HA ### Explanation: Definition: carry-on sHOOt tHAt minus the outer letters of each word

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

### Clue: What makes an Isis rite – i.e. in these being rattled? (6)

### Answer: SISTRA ### Explanation: Definition: What makes an Isis rite – i.e. in these being rattled Another composite anagram, and also and &lit. (AN ISIS RITE)* = I.E. IN SISTRA; plural of "sistrum", which is "an ancient Egyptian rattle, used in Isis-worship"

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

### Clue: Bairn that's good, yet spoilt (4)

### Answer: GYTE ### Explanation: Definition: Bairn G + YET

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

### Clue: Dread Shakespearean blather and tortured tenses (9)

### Answer: GASTNESSE ### Explanation: Definition: Dread Shakespearean GAS (blather) + TENSES

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

### Clue: Dejected when damn rings puncture (7)

### Answer: DEFLATE ### Explanation: Definition: Dejected FLAT (a puncture) "ringed by" DEE (i.e. D, euphemism for "damn"), though the definition surely points to DEFLATED. *Thanks to Dansar for the correction: it's FLAT (dejected) in DEE, with "puncture" as the definition.

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

### Clue: What Baden Powell encouraged affected clubs, a large number (9)

### Answer: CAMPCRAFT ### Explanation: Definition: What Baden Powell encouraged CAMP (affected) + C[lubs] + RAFT (large number)

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

### Clue: Hatch limitless wealth kept in pot (7)

### Answer: GUICHET ### Explanation: Definition: Hatch [r]ICHE[s] in GUT (pot[-belly]) – familiar as the French word for a ticket-office

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 among heavenly bodies in flight (6)

### Answer: STAIRS ### Explanation: Definition: flight I in STARS

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

### Clue: Nutritious fern, number fringing neglected road (6)

### Answer: NARDOO ### Explanation: Definition: Nutritious fern ROAD in NO (number)

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

### Clue: Idle Aussie, very nippy by the sound of it (5)

### Answer: POLER ### Explanation: Definition: Idle Aussie Homophone of "polar", very cold; Australian slang for a shirker

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

### Clue: Eyesore? He admitted there's not so many in Scotland (5)

### Answer: WHEEN ### Explanation: Definition: not so many in Scotland HE in WEN (eyesore, as in "The Great Wen" for London); it's a Scots word for a few

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

### Clue: Smur in Glasgow or Dundee coming up (4)

### Answer: DROW ### Explanation: Definition: Smur Hidden in reverse of glasgoW OR Dundee; Chambers gives "fine misty rain" for "smur" and " drizzling mist" for DROW: there may be a subtle distinction between the two: in any case, both are familiar to those of us who regularly visit Scotland (for obvious reasons I have had to cancel my next visit, which was due in May)

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

### Clue: Sprat (male) goes for this, a line that's loaded I cast (4)

### Answer: LEAN ### Explanation: Definition: Sprat (male) goes for this (A LINE)* less I, with a reference to the nursery rhyme: "Jack Sprat would eat no fat" (unlike his wife, hence the "(male)")

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 to attack endlessly unfair work conditions (4,4)

### Answer: ZERO HOUR ### Explanation: Definition: Time to attack A ZERO HOURS contract is where one is tied to an employer but with no guarantee of work; truncate that and you get the military expression