as found wsj crossword clue

Daniel Parker

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28-02-2025

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Decoding the "As Found" WSJ Crossword Clue

The phrase "as found" in a Wall Street Journal crossword clue can be surprisingly tricky. It doesn't refer to a specific object or location. Instead, it acts as a modifier, hinting at the condition or state of something. Understanding its subtle nuances is key to cracking the puzzle. This article will delve into the various ways "as found" manifests in WSJ crosswords, providing examples and strategies to help you solve those perplexing clues.

What "As Found" Really Means

At its core, "as found" signifies the original or unmodified state of something. It suggests that whatever is being described hasn't been altered, cleaned, repaired, or otherwise changed from its initial condition. This could refer to physical objects, historical events, or even abstract concepts.

Examples and Interpretations

Let's explore how "as found" can be used in different crossword contexts:

1. Physical Objects:

• Clue: "Ancient relic, as found"
• Answer: RUINED (implying the relic is in a dilapidated, original state)

Here, "as found" suggests the relic is not pristine or restored. The solver must think of the relic's state in its discovered condition.

• Clue: "Old coin, as found"
• Answer: TARNISHED (The coin's condition is implied by "as found," indicating oxidation)

2. Historical Events/Situations:

• Clue: "The battle, as found in historical accounts"
• Answer: BLOODY (The clue points to the original, unvarnished description of the battle's brutality)

In this case, "as found" directs the solver to the raw, unfiltered historical record. It's not a sanitized or romanticized version.

3. Abstract Concepts:

• Clue: "His true nature, as found in his later years"
• Answer: CRUEL (This implies the clue refers to his character without any mitigating factors or retrospective analysis)

The "as found" here means we're looking at his character as it truly was during his later years, without any sugarcoating.

Solving Strategies for "As Found" Clues

1. Consider the Condition: The most important strategy is focusing on the state or condition. Think of words that describe something left untouched, unaltered, or in its original state. Consider words like untouched, original, raw, unmodified, primitive, ruined, and tarnished.

2. Look for Contrasting Words: The clue might offer a contrasting word or phrase. For example, a clue might say "Ancient artifact, not as restored, but as found." This makes the answer even clearer.

3. Think Outside the Box: Don't limit yourself to literal interpretations. The "as found" might indicate a figurative state, as seen in the abstract concept example above.

Conclusion

While seemingly simple, the "as found" phrase in WSJ crossword clues demands careful consideration of context and condition. By understanding its implications and employing the strategies outlined above, you'll be better equipped to solve these challenging clues and conquer even the most difficult WSJ puzzles. Remember to focus on the original, unmodified state of whatever the clue describes. This focus will unlock the answer and boost your crossword skills!