vessel for a shot wsj crossword

Daniel Parker

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24-02-2025

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Decoding the "Vessel for a Shot" WSJ Crossword Clue

The Wall Street Journal crossword is known for its challenging clues, and "vessel for a shot" is a prime example. This seemingly simple clue can stump even experienced solvers. Let's break down why and explore the potential answers.

Understanding the Clue's Ambiguity

The key to solving this clue lies in understanding its inherent ambiguity. "Shot" can refer to several things:

• A photograph: In this context, the "vessel" might be a CAMERA. This is a plausible answer, but the WSJ crossword often favors more concise solutions.
• A type of alcoholic beverage: This interpretation opens up a wider range of possibilities. Think about the types of containers used to serve alcoholic shots.

Potential Answers and Why

Considering the alcoholic beverage interpretation, several answers fit the bill:

• GLASS: This is the most straightforward and likely answer. A glass is a common vessel for serving a shot of liquor. Its simplicity aligns with the style of many WSJ crossword clues.
• CUP: While less common for shots, a small cup could certainly hold one. This answer is less likely than "glass" due to its less precise association.
• SNIFTER: This option works if the clue refers to a shot of liquor like brandy or cognac, traditionally served in a snifter. However, "snifter" is a less frequently used word, making it less likely.

Solving Strategies for Similar Clues

When faced with ambiguous crossword clues like "vessel for a shot," here are some strategies to employ:

• Consider multiple meanings: As demonstrated, the word "shot" has multiple interpretations. Explore each possibility.
• Think about common usage: The most common vessel for a shot of liquor is a glass. This should be your first guess.
• Pay attention to word length: The number of letters in the answer is crucial. Use this information to eliminate possibilities.
• Check the surrounding clues: Sometimes, clues intersecting with "vessel for a shot" might offer helpful context or letter combinations.

Conclusion

While several answers could technically fit the clue "vessel for a shot," GLASS remains the most likely and straightforward solution for a WSJ crossword. Remembering the various meanings of "shot" and using the solving strategies discussed above will significantly increase your chances of successfully cracking similar cryptic clues. Happy solving!