Stumped by a Close Rival in this Tricky Crossword? Crack The Clue Here!

Sure, I’d be happy to explain the answer ‘FRENEMY’ in detail!

A “frenemy” is a portmanteau of the words “friend” and “enemy” and refers to a person who is both a friend and a rival to someone else. This term is commonly used to describe a relationship between two people who are ostensibly friends, but who also have a competitive or adversarial relationship. The term is often used in a lighthearted or humorous context, but can also describe more serious or toxic relationships.

In popular culture, frenemies are often portrayed as individuals who are overly competitive with one another, who frequently try to one-up each other, or who engage in backstabbing behavior. This stereotype is often used in comedy, but it can also reflect real-life situations in which people have complex or complicated relationships with one another.

The origins of the term “frenemy” are not entirely clear, but it has been in use for several decades, with the earliest known usage dating back to the 1950s. The term has since become more widely known and used, appearing in popular media and becoming a part of everyday conversation.

In the context of the crossword clue “close rival, in a sense,” the answer “frenemy” would fit perfectly, as it describes a situation in which two people are both friends and rivals. So, if you encounter this clue in a puzzle, “frenemy” might just be the answer you’re looking for!