Crossclimb #585 Answer – December 6, 2025
SUREFIRE
Answer
SUREFIRE
Solution: A decoy used to attract fish, a straightforward clue once you think of fishing.
Solution: A Renaissance musical instrument; might not be common knowledge but worth considering.
Solution: Simply refers to being after the expected time; easy to connect.
Solution: The notion of destiny; a common word that fits nicely in word games.
Solution: Refers to the cost of a taxi ride; a straightforward clue that isn't too tricky.
Combo Clue
“Compound adjective that describes a plan that is infallible, can't-miss, and certain to succeed”
📖 How I Solved It
I tackled puzzle #585 on December 6, 2025, and let me tell you, it was a wild ride! The combo clue, 'Compound adjective that describes a plan that is infallible, can't-miss, and certain to succeed,' had me stumped at first. I kept thinking of words like 'foolproof' and 'guaranteed' but those didn't fit the letter count. After a few wrong guesses, I finally landed on 'SUREFIRE'—such a relief! The word ladder was pretty smooth sailing, but I stumbled a bit on the transition from 'LURE' to 'LUTE.' I mean, who even remembers what a lute is? But once I got that sorted out, the rest fell into place nicely. I felt that satisfying click when I connected everything, and the sense of accomplishment was just the cherry on top!
💡 Tips for This Puzzle
- •Double-check your word ladder choices, as one wrong guess can throw off the whole chain.
- •Think about synonyms related to the combo clue; they can lead you to the right answer.
- •Don't be afraid to go back and revise earlier guesses if you're stuck.