This specific phrase typically refers to a clue encountered within a crossword puzzle. The clue alludes to a common expression that conveys concern or confusion about the behavior or actions of a group of people. For example, the answer to the clue might be “WHATSA MATTER WITHYOU” or a similar expression, rendered without spaces to fit the crossword grid. This type of clue relies on the solver’s familiarity with colloquial language and their ability to recognize a phrase despite its unconventional presentation.
Solving clues of this nature enhances vocabulary, strengthens pattern recognition skills, and improves general knowledge of idiomatic expressions. Its inclusion in a puzzle introduces an element of linguistic playfulness, challenging solvers to think beyond literal definitions and embrace the nuances of everyday speech. The presence of such clues helps to ensure the enjoyment and mental stimulation that crossword puzzles can provide, and it helps to explain the enduring popularity of the puzzles through the decades.
The following sections will delve into the various aspects of crossword puzzle construction and solving strategies, providing insight into how these clues are formulated and deciphered.
1. Colloquial phrase.
The presence of a colloquial phrase is central to a crossword clue resembling “what’s the matter with them crossword.” It signifies that the answer is not a formal, textbook definition but rather an expression commonly used in everyday conversation. This reliance on informal language introduces a unique element to the puzzle-solving process, requiring solvers to draw upon their familiarity with spoken language.
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Informal Language & Crossword Construction
Informal language challenges puzzle constructors to present common expressions in a format suitable for the grid. This often involves removing spaces and punctuation, which can increase the difficulty for the solver. The constructor must assess how well-known an idiom is to target an appropriate skill level. The clue itself often needs to hint at the informal register to alert solvers that the answer is an expression, not a dictionary definition.
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Cultural Relevance and Recognition
A colloquial phrase is often culturally bound. What is common in one region or social group might be unfamiliar to another. The suitability of a phrase for a general audience hinges on its widespread recognition. A phrase that resonates with a large segment of solvers is preferred to a more localized term. This consideration influences the overall accessibility and enjoyment of the crossword puzzle.
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Implied Meaning and Interpretation
Colloquialisms frequently carry nuances beyond their literal meanings. Understanding the implied meaning of a phrase like “what’s the matter with them” is essential for accurate interpretation. The clue may provide subtle hints to guide solvers toward the intended interpretation, acknowledging the inherent ambiguity within informal language. These subtleties elevate the puzzle challenge, engaging critical thinking and the ability to decipher subtext.
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Impact on Solver Experience
The inclusion of common language adds to an element of fun and familiarity to the crossword-solving experience. Solving a clue related to everyday speech can feel satisfying because it draws upon the solver’s broader knowledge base rather than purely academic learning. The potential for humor within colloquial expressions contributes to making the overall experience engaging and memorable.
In conclusion, the incorporation of colloquial phrases into crossword puzzles such as “what’s the matter with them crossword” adds a critical layer of linguistic complexity and cultural relevance. The skillful use of these phrases enhances the solver experience by demanding knowledge of not only vocabulary but familiarity with spoken language, implied meaning and cultural context which are factors to consider.
2. Wordplay.
Wordplay constitutes an integral component in constructing clues of the “what’s the matter with them crossword” variety. The inherent nature of crossword puzzles necessitates that clues do not directly state the answer but rather allude to it through indirect means. Wordplay serves as the primary mechanism for achieving this indirection. Its utilization transforms a straightforward question into a riddle, demanding solvers to engage in lateral thinking and linguistic analysis. The presence of wordplay ensures that solving is not simply a matter of recall but also one of creative problem-solving.
The specific form of wordplay employed can vary considerably. It might involve puns, where the clue exploits the multiple meanings of a word. Alternatively, it could utilize anagrams, requiring the solver to rearrange letters to arrive at the solution. Hidden words, contained within the clue’s phrasing, represent another common technique. In the context of a clue referencing “what’s the matter with them,” the wordplay might center on reinterpreting the phrase’s components. For instance, “Matter” could be presented as something else entirely, while “them” might stand for an alternate group of individuals. Successful decoding relies on the solver’s ability to recognize and deconstruct these instances of wordplay.
Understanding the role of wordplay is crucial for effective crossword puzzle solving. Recognizing the subtle techniques employed by constructors facilitates the deciphering process and fosters a deeper appreciation for the puzzle’s intricacies. The successful navigation of wordplay elements ultimately determines the solver’s ability to arrive at the correct solution, underlining its fundamental significance in challenges such as the construction of “what’s the matter with them crossword” puzzles.
3. Cultural context.
Cultural context plays a pivotal role in the comprehension and successful completion of a crossword clue referencing “what’s the matter with them crossword.” The phrase itself is embedded within a specific cultural understanding, and its interpretation is dependent upon shared societal knowledge and accepted norms of communication. Without recognizing these underlying cultural assumptions, solvers may struggle to decipher the intended meaning and arrive at the correct solution.
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Regional Variations in Language
The phrase “what’s the matter with them” can exhibit regional variations in both its usage and implied meaning. In some regions, it might indicate mild amusement or teasing, while in others, it expresses genuine concern or disapproval. Crossword constructors must consider these regional differences when employing the phrase as a clue, ensuring that the intended meaning is accessible to a broad audience. The choice of specific wording and contextual hints within the clue becomes crucial in mitigating ambiguity and guiding solvers towards the culturally appropriate interpretation.
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Historical Evolution of Expressions
The cultural context of an expression evolves over time. Phrases that were once common may become antiquated or shift in meaning. When a crossword clue utilizes a dated expression, solvers need to possess some awareness of historical linguistic usage to recognize and interpret the clue correctly. A clue referencing “what’s the matter with them” may allude to a specific historical event or societal trend, necessitating an understanding of that era’s cultural context to fully grasp its significance.
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Social and Demographic Influences
Social and demographic factors, such as age, education level, and socioeconomic background, can influence an individual’s understanding of a colloquial expression. A phrase that is widely understood within one social group may be unfamiliar to another. Constructors must aim for clues that are accessible to a diverse range of solvers, considering the varying cultural reference points within the target audience. Clues with limited context risk excluding solvers from certain backgrounds, diminishing the overall enjoyment and accessibility of the puzzle.
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Pop Culture References and Idioms
Popular culture frequently introduces and popularizes idioms and expressions that become ingrained within a society’s linguistic repertoire. Clues referencing “what’s the matter with them” might draw upon pop culture references to add an additional layer of meaning. Solvers must be familiar with these references to recognize the intended connection and successfully solve the clue. The use of pop culture elements can make a crossword puzzle more engaging and relatable but also requires careful consideration to avoid alienating solvers unfamiliar with the specific cultural touchpoints.
In essence, cultural context acts as an invisible framework within which the meaning of a crossword clue such as “what’s the matter with them crossword” is constructed and interpreted. Failure to account for these cultural nuances can lead to misinterpretations and unsuccessful puzzle-solving attempts. The most effective clues are those that demonstrate a sensitivity to cultural diversity and employ linguistic techniques that facilitate understanding across various backgrounds.
4. Puzzle theme.
The existence of a puzzle theme significantly influences the inclusion and interpretation of a clue such as one related to “what’s the matter with them crossword.” A unifying theme provides a framework for the entire puzzle, dictating the selection of words and clues, and often shaping the solving experience. When a theme is present, individual clues are not isolated entities but rather interconnected elements that contribute to the overall thematic coherence. Therefore, if a puzzle’s theme revolves around colloquialisms, expressions of concern, or societal observations, a clue referencing “what’s the matter with them” becomes a highly relevant and appropriate inclusion. The presence of the theme acts as a causal factor, directly increasing the likelihood that this specific type of clue will be incorporated.
The importance of the theme extends beyond mere inclusion; it also affects the clue’s interpretation. If, for instance, the puzzle’s theme is “Classic TV Catchphrases,” the phrase “what’s the matter with them” would likely reference a specific television show or character known for using that expression. The theme provides a contextual lens through which solvers can approach the clue, narrowing down the range of potential answers and guiding their problem-solving strategies. A theme focused on medical terminology might require a more literal interpretation of “matter,” altering the expected solution. The theme acts as a filter, shaping how solvers understand and ultimately answer the clue.
In conclusion, the puzzle theme exerts a considerable influence on the inclusion and interpretation of clues similar to the one in question. The presence of a well-defined theme increases the likelihood of such a clue being used and provides vital context for solvers, guiding their thinking and streamlining the problem-solving process. Understanding the overarching theme is, therefore, a crucial step in successfully navigating and completing crossword puzzles with thematic elements.
5. Answer length.
Answer length is a crucial constraint when incorporating phrases similar to that found in “what’s the matter with them crossword” into a puzzle. The number of squares allocated within the crossword grid dictates the maximum character count of the answer. This limitation directly impacts the constructor’s choice of phrase, requiring it to be both relevant to the clue and precisely sized to fit the available space. For instance, a longer version of the phrase, such as “WHAT’S THE MATTER WITH ALL OF THEM,” might be conceptually appropriate but unusable if the grid only accommodates fifteen characters. A shorter, synonymous phrase would then be required. Thus, answer length serves as an initial screening factor, influencing the feasibility of incorporating a specific expression into the crossword design.
Furthermore, the length constraint influences how the phrase is presented within the clue. To compensate for a potentially lengthy answer, constructors often employ creative wordplay or indirect references. Consider a situation where the answer is “THEYARESTRANGE.” The clue might not directly ask “what’s the matter with them,” but could instead provide a more cryptic hint such as “Odd group, no spaces.” In this case, the constructor leverages the length constraint to introduce an added layer of complexity, challenging solvers to decipher the relationship between the clue and the resulting answer’s character count. Successfully navigating this interplay between clue and answer length enhances the overall solving experience.
In summary, answer length acts as a fundamental parameter in crossword construction, directly shaping the selection and presentation of phrases like the one exemplified. It serves as both a limitation and a catalyst for creativity, influencing clue design and demanding that solvers carefully consider the number of characters required for a solution. Understanding this constraint is essential for both constructors aiming to create solvable puzzles and solvers seeking to decipher challenging clues, ensuring the puzzle experience is both satisfying and stimulating.
6. Grid fit.
Grid fit represents a fundamental constraint in crossword puzzle construction, directly influencing the viability of incorporating a phrase akin to “what’s the matter with them crossword.” The dimensional limitations of the grid dictate the allowable length and configuration of answer entries, thereby imposing restrictions on phrase selection and clue design. The phrase must conform precisely to the available grid space, rendering even semantically appropriate but improperly sized entries unusable.
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Dimensional Constraints and Phrase Modification
The physical dimensions of the crossword grid impose strict length limits on potential answers. A phrase like “WHAT’S THE MATTER WITH THEM” may need modification to fit. This can involve shortening the phrase, employing abbreviations, or removing spaces. The need for such alterations affects the semantic clarity and necessitates carefully crafted clues that guide the solver to the correct, albeit modified, answer. This balancing act between semantic accuracy and spatial conformance is a key challenge in puzzle creation.
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Interlocking Letters and Answer Placement
Crossword grids rely on interlocking letters between intersecting words to provide validation and solving cues. The placement of a longer phrase, like the one referenced, significantly impacts the grid’s overall structure and the positioning of other entries. The constructor must consider how the letters within the phrase align with intersecting words, ensuring that these intersections create valid and solvable clues. A poorly placed long phrase can compromise the puzzle’s integrity and increase its difficulty exponentially.
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Symmetry and Aesthetic Considerations
Many crossword puzzles adhere to symmetrical grid designs, requiring that black squares are arranged in a balanced pattern. The inclusion of a long phrase can disrupt this symmetry, forcing the constructor to make adjustments to the overall grid layout. Balancing the need for semantic relevance with aesthetic considerations is crucial. The impact on symmetry can determine whether a given phrase is deemed suitable for inclusion in the puzzle.
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Impact on Clue Difficulty and Solvability
The need to manipulate a phrase to achieve grid fit often necessitates the use of more complex or obscure clues. Solvers must then decipher both the phrase’s meaning and the constructor’s alterations. This increases the puzzle’s overall difficulty and demands greater linguistic dexterity from the solver. While adding challenge, the emphasis should remain on fair solvability, ensuring that the clues, despite their complexity, provide sufficient guidance for the determined solver.
In conclusion, grid fit acts as a fundamental arbitrator in the inclusion of phrases exemplified by “what’s the matter with them crossword.” It necessitates alterations to phraseology, impacts the structural integrity of the grid, influences the difficulty of clues, and challenges the constructor to balance semantic accuracy with aesthetic considerations. Understanding these constraints is pivotal for both creating and solving complex crosswords, guaranteeing an optimal balance between difficulty and enjoyment.
7. Solver familiarity.
Solver familiarity significantly influences the successful decoding of clues related to expressions such as the phrase appearing in “what’s the matter with them crossword.” The inclusion of colloquialisms, idioms, or culturally specific references necessitates a pre-existing level of knowledge on the part of the solver. A solver unfamiliar with the nuances of informal language or specific cultural contexts may struggle to interpret the intended meaning of the clue, thereby hindering their ability to arrive at the correct answer. The constructor’s choice of clue wording and overall puzzle design must therefore consider the anticipated range of solver experience.
Consider the instance where the answer is a regionally specific idiom. A solver from outside that region would likely lack the contextual awareness necessary to decipher the clue, irrespective of their general vocabulary knowledge or crossword-solving skills. Similarly, a clue that references a historical event or a pop culture phenomenon requires that the solver possess that specific cultural information to make the relevant connection. The absence of this familiarity acts as a direct impediment to solving the clue. To mitigate this, constructors may incorporate subtle hints within the clue wording, designed to provide a foothold for solvers lacking specialized knowledge. However, the effectiveness of these hints relies upon the solver’s ability to recognize and interpret them appropriately, again highlighting the crucial role of prior familiarity.
In summary, solver familiarity is a key determinant of success when tackling crossword clues incorporating idiomatic or culturally-bound expressions. The puzzle’s constructor bears the responsibility of gauging the target audience’s likely knowledge base and crafting clues that strike a balance between challenging the solver and ensuring reasonable accessibility. The understanding and consideration of solver familiarity becomes paramount in creating a fulfilling and equitable crossword-solving experience, minimizing frustration and maximizing the solver’s sense of accomplishment.
8. Cross-references.
Cross-references in crossword puzzles establish relationships between different clues and answers within the grid. When applied to a crossword puzzle containing a clue referencing “what’s the matter with them crossword,” cross-references can serve as crucial navigational aids. The presence of intersecting wordswords that share letters with the answer to the target clueprovides potential confirmation or hints. If a solver struggles with the “what’s the matter with them” clue, correctly solving intersecting clues can reveal letters within the unknown answer. This interdependency transforms the puzzle from a set of isolated challenges into an interconnected web, where success in one area facilitates progress in others. For instance, if the answer to “what’s the matter with them crossword” is “THEYAREODD,” and a solver correctly answers a clue whose solution intersects with “THEYAREODD,” providing the “E,” “A,” and “D,” it reduces the possible solutions, guiding the solver.
The strategic construction of cross-references is a key aspect of puzzle design. A well-designed puzzle will feature cross-references that are neither too obvious, thus diminishing the challenge, nor too obscure, leading to solver frustration. The placement and difficulty of intersecting clues are carefully calibrated to create a balance. In the instance of a phrase like the one referenced, which often relies on colloquial knowledge, constructors might intentionally place easier intersecting clues to offer a helping hand. Conversely, if the constructor intends to increase the puzzle’s overall difficulty, the intersecting clues could be made more challenging, further testing the solver’s skills. Theme based crosswords might utilize recurring letters throughout the theme answers to aid in the solving process if solvers become stuck on a particularly difficult theme answer.
In summary, cross-references are integral to crossword puzzle construction, particularly when dealing with clues involving idiomatic expressions. They establish interconnections between clues, provide confirmation, and offer strategic assistance to solvers grappling with challenging entries. Understanding the role and function of cross-references is vital both for crossword constructors seeking to create solvable and engaging puzzles and for solvers seeking to enhance their puzzle-solving proficiency. The integration of strategically placed clues facilitates solvability and strengthens the coherence of the crossword matrix.
9. Difficulty level.
The difficulty level of a crossword puzzle directly impacts the suitability and presentation of a clue related to “what’s the matter with them crossword.” For beginner-level puzzles, a straightforward clue might be employed, directly referencing the phrase in a clear, unambiguous manner. For example, the clue could read “Expression of concern, informally (5,4),” leading to the answer “WHAT’S UP.” Conversely, in more challenging puzzles, the clue would be significantly more complex, involving wordplay, indirect references, or cultural allusions to obscure the answer. The crossword constructors must carefully tailor the clue’s complexity to align with the overall difficulty intended for the puzzle. A miscalibrated clue, either too easy or too difficult, undermines the intended solving experience. A very difficult puzzle might involve a rare or antiquated meaning of the words involved in the clue, or the crossword answer itself may be obscure or less commonly used. The intended audience is always the most important consideration when choosing and constructing a crossword clue.
The strategic manipulation of clue wording is paramount in modulating the difficulty level. Constructors can increase difficulty by utilizing homophones, anagrams, or cryptic definitions. The level of indirection is directly proportional to the puzzle’s intended challenge. In a difficult crossword puzzle referencing what’s the matter with them, the phrases origins might be rooted in obscure pop culture or a historically specific context, demanding a high degree of specialized knowledge from the solver. This approach is particularly effective in specialized crosswords targeted at expert solvers, where the expectation is to engage with intricate linguistic and cultural puzzles. Therefore, an answer for “what’s the matter with them” in a harder puzzle may require solving several smaller clues before the puzzle is solved.
In conclusion, the crossword puzzle’s difficulty level necessitates a corresponding calibration of clue complexity when incorporating phrases similar to that exemplified by what’s the matter with them crossword. The level of wordplay, cultural references, and indirection must align with the intended challenge, ensuring a satisfying and appropriately demanding solving experience for the target audience. The constructor’s adept manipulation of clue wording is critical in achieving this balance, contributing significantly to the overall integrity and enjoyment of the puzzle.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the appearance and interpretation of clues related to the phrase “what’s the matter with them” within the context of crossword puzzles. It aims to clarify potential points of confusion and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the subject.
Question 1: Why does “what’s the matter with them crossword” often appear as a single, unspaced word in the solution?
Crossword grids require continuous strings of letters without spaces or punctuation. Phrases, therefore, are typically presented as a single concatenated word to conform to this grid structure.
Question 2: What factors influence the difficulty of a “what’s the matter with them crossword” clue?
Several factors contribute to the clue’s difficulty, including the obscurity of the cultural reference, the complexity of the wordplay, the presence of synonyms or homophones, and the overall puzzle’s difficulty level.
Question 3: How does regional variation affect the interpretation of “what’s the matter with them crossword” clues?
The phrase’s connotation and usage may vary across different regions. Crossword constructors should aim for widely recognized interpretations or provide contextual hints to mitigate ambiguity.
Question 4: Are “what’s the matter with them crossword” clues more common in themed or general crossword puzzles?
The inclusion is dependent on the puzzle theme. A theme centered around idioms or colloquial expressions would be more likely to incorporate such a clue than a puzzle with a more specialized focus.
Question 5: What solving strategies are most effective for deciphering “what’s the matter with them crossword” clues?
Effective strategies include identifying key words within the clue, considering alternative meanings of words, utilizing cross-references within the grid, and recognizing common idiomatic expressions.
Question 6: How can one improve their ability to solve “what’s the matter with them crossword” clues?
Improvement can be achieved through exposure to a wide range of colloquial expressions, expanding general knowledge of cultural references, and practicing crossword puzzle solving regularly.
In summary, interpreting “what’s the matter with them crossword” clues effectively requires a combination of linguistic awareness, cultural understanding, and strategic puzzle-solving skills. The constructor’s responsibility lies in crafting clues that are challenging yet fair, considering the anticipated knowledge base of the target audience.
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Effective Strategies for Deciphering Crossword Clues
The following strategies provide guidance for effectively approaching clues within crossword puzzles, especially those pertaining to idiomatic expressions such as what’s the matter with them crossword clues.
Tip 1: Analyze the Clue’s Wording Meticulously.
Pay close attention to the specific words used in the clue, as they often provide subtle hints or cues to the answer. Identify key terms or phrases that might have multiple meanings or connotations.
Tip 2: Consider Alternate Definitions of Words.
Many words possess several meanings, and the clue might be employing a less common definition. Consult a dictionary or thesaurus to explore alternative interpretations of key terms.
Tip 3: Identify Potential Wordplay.
Crossword clues frequently incorporate wordplay, such as puns, anagrams, or hidden words. Look for indications of such techniques within the clue’s phrasing.
Tip 4: Utilize Cross-References Strategically.
Leverage intersecting answers within the grid to provide confirmation or assistance. Partially solved words can reveal letters within the target answer, reducing the number of possibilities.
Tip 5: Assess the Clue’s Difficulty Level.
Gauge the overall difficulty of the puzzle and adjust the approach accordingly. More challenging puzzles require more intricate and indirect reasoning.
Tip 6: Consider the Puzzle’s Theme (If Applicable).
If the crossword has a specific theme, the answer to the clue is likely to be related. Identify the theme to focus the search for solutions.
Tip 7: Expand General Knowledge of Idioms and Cultural References.
Familiarity with common expressions and cultural touchstones enhances the ability to decipher clues that rely on idiomatic language or contextual understanding.
Tip 8: Employ Online Resources.
If all else fails, online crossword solvers or databases can provide assistance. However, use these resources judiciously to avoid compromising the intellectual challenge.
The consistent application of these strategies will enhance crossword puzzle-solving skills and increase success rates, especially when facing clues with culturally rich language. Successful puzzle-solving entails a combination of analytical thinking, linguistic awareness, and strategic resource utilization.
The succeeding section of this article will present a comprehensive conclusion, consolidating key insights and summarizing significant takeaways from this exploration.
Conclusion
This exploration of “what’s the matter with them crossword” has illuminated the complexities inherent in clues that rely on idiomatic expressions and cultural context. Key considerations include the phrase’s colloquial nature, the utilization of wordplay, the significance of cultural context, the influence of a puzzle’s theme, the constraints imposed by answer length and grid fit, the importance of solver familiarity, the strategic employment of cross-references, and the modulation of difficulty level. The interplay of these elements underscores the intricate nature of crossword puzzle construction and the multifaceted skills required for successful solving.
The enduring appeal of crossword puzzles lies in their capacity to challenge linguistic dexterity, cultural awareness, and problem-solving acumen. Understanding the nuances outlined herein contributes to a deeper appreciation of this intellectual pursuit. Continued engagement with diverse forms of language and culture expands the solver’s ability to navigate such puzzles effectively, further solidifying the timeless relevance of the crossword challenge.
