Challenge Accepted: Mastering the Elusive Puzzle

In the world of crossword puzzles, the clue “Looks long and hard” is a classic example of a clue where the answer is not a simple word, but rather a verb that requires a bit more thought. In this case, the answer is “STARES.”

To understand why “STARES” fits the clue, we need to break it down. Let’s start with the word itself.

“STARES” is a verb, which means it describes an action or a state of being. In this context, it refers to the act of looking intently, usually with a piercing or fixed gaze. When you stare, you focus your eyes on something for an extended period, often with great concentration or curiosity.

Now, let’s delve into why “STARES” is the correct answer for the clue “Looks long and hard.” The phrase “looks long” indicates that we are searching visually with an extended duration, examining something intently. The word “hard” implies that we are putting in a significant amount of effort and concentration into our observation.

When you put these elements together, “STARES” perfectly fits the clue because it conveys both the act of looking intently and the level of effort involved. Imagine someone concentrating deeply, their eyes fixed on a particular object or scene for an extended period of time. That is precisely what “STARES” captures.

In crossword puzzles, it is essential to pay close attention to these details within the clue. In this case, understanding that the clue is looking for a verb, and being able to associate “looking intently” and “great effort” with the word “STARES” allows us to arrive at the correct answer.

So, the next time you come across a crossword clue like “Looks long and hard,” you now know that the answer you are seeking is “STARES.”