Cryptic Crossword Solver
Reversal clues

Reversal Cryptic Clues Explained.

Learn how reversal clues work, which indicators point backwards, and why across or down clue direction can affect fairness.

What is a reversal clue?

A reversal clue creates the answer by reading another word or abbreviation backwards. Directional indicators tell the solver when to reverse the letters.

How to spot one

Look for words such as backward, returned, rising, coming up, westbound, or reversed. In down clues, words like up or rising are often fairer than they are in across clues.

Common indicators

backwardreturnedreverseduprisingcoming upwestboundebbing

Common mistakes

  • Using an up-style indicator in an across clue without caution.
  • Reversing the wrong word or phrase.
  • Ignoring whether the reversed answer matches the definition.

Solving steps for reversal clues.

Use this checklist before accepting a candidate answer.

1

Step 1

Find a source word or abbreviation in the clue.

2

Step 2

Check whether a reversal indicator applies to that source.

3

Step 3

Reverse the letters and compare the result with the enumeration.

4

Step 4

Test the reversed result against the definition.

5

Step 5

Consider clue direction when the indicator depends on across or down movement.

Reviewed reversal examples.

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