Cryptic Crossword Solver
Homophone clues

Homophone Cryptic Clues Explained.

Learn how homophone clues use sound-alike words and indicators such as reportedly, heard, or they say.

What is a homophone clue?

A homophone clue gives a word or phrase that sounds like the answer. A sound indicator tells you to think about pronunciation rather than spelling.

How to spot one

Look for hearing-related indicators such as reportedly, we hear, said, spoken, on the radio, or audibly. Then test whether the sound-alike answer matches the definition.

Common indicators

reportedlywe hearsaidspokenaudiblyon the radiothey sayfor listeners

Common mistakes

  • Accepting a sound-alike that does not match the clue definition.
  • Ignoring regional pronunciation differences.
  • Mistaking a spelling clue for a sound clue when no homophone indicator is present.

Solving steps for homophone clues.

Use this checklist before accepting a candidate answer.

1

Step 1

Identify the word that supplies the sound.

2

Step 2

Find the homophone indicator.

3

Step 3

Convert the sound-alike word into a candidate answer spelling.

4

Step 4

Check the candidate against the definition and enumeration.

5

Step 5

Remember that accent and pronunciation can affect fairness.

Reviewed homophone examples.

These solution pages show the clue type in context with answer, definition, wordplay, and verification steps.