Swindle

As a detective, I approach the crossword clue “Swindle” with a keen sense of observation and a sharp mind to deduce the answer. The first thing that comes to mind is the word “fraud”, but it’s too long for the number of squares. I then consider the four-letter words that could fit within the grid. I notice that the clue is capitalized, which suggests that it is a specific term rather than a generic word. This inspires me to think of slang terms, like “scam” or “con,” but again these do not fit the squares available.

That’s when I recall a similar crossword clue I had encountered before, and I think of the term “Bunko.” Bunko is defined as a swindle or confidence game played for money, so it fits the clue, and it also fits within the available grid. Another clue that supports my idea is that the origin of the word Bunko comes from Bunco, which is a dice game that was often rigged by con artists. The synergy between the origins of the term and its definition further convinces me that Bunko is the right answer.

In conclusion, deductive reasoning and a willingness to consider different possibilities helps me solve the crossword puzzle clue “Swindle.” My ability to link the etymology of the word “Bunko” with its meaning provides me with the final insight that this is the answer.