One word inside another
Containers
An outer word swallows an inner bit (letter, abbreviation, or short word). Indicators include about, around, holding, clutching, and outside.
Containers are the workhorse of longer answers. Split the clue into outer, inner, and definition, then test which fragment sits inside which.
Musical notes (A–G), quiet (P), love (O), and short abbreviations are common passengers.
Container indicators
Wrap means the outer word holds the inner bit. Insert means the inner bit goes into the outer.
| Indicator | Mode | Reading |
|---|---|---|
| holding / containing / embracing / about / around | Wrap | Outer around inner |
| swallowing / keeps | Wrap | Outer swallows inner |
| in / inside / within | Insert | Inner enters outer |
| brought into / trapped in / included in | Insert | Inner forced into outer |
| contained by / surrounded by / held by | Insert | Inner sits inside outer |
Things to watch
- “About / around / holding” usually means outer around inner.
- “In / entering / admitted” can flip the sense: inner goes into outer.
- Say the construction aloud: CARE holding T.
Worked example
Care holding t menu (5)