Go-ahead

As a detective solving the crossword clue ‘Go-ahead’, the first thing that came to mind was words and phrases that relate to giving permission or approval. ‘Green light’ and ‘permission’ were some of the words that immediately popped up but they were too long for the four-letter answer format of the crossword puzzle. Then, I remembered that nodding of the head was a universally-understandable way of conveying approval or agreement. So, taking a cue from this recognition, I scribbled the word ‘NOD’ in the allotted boxes. Sure enough, ‘NOD’ fit perfectly and the puzzle was solved. The seemingly insignificant motion of nodding has been the saving grace for many crossword enthusiasts who have encountered this clue, and it is a testament to the creativity of puzzle makers and the language’s many nuances that such a simple solution could provide the solution to a seemingly tricky puzzle.