Can he be preserved? Crossword Clue

The answer to the crossword clue Can he be preserved? published by "Evening Standard - Cryptic" and we have possible answers listed below:

Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle

In today's crossword puzzle, the clue "Can he be preserved?" leads us to the answer "NED." This seemingly cryptic clue actually has a straightforward explanation when interpreted correctly:

• NED: This answer is a play on words, focusing on the word "preserved." When we think about something being preserved, we often think of it being kept in a preserved or unchanging state for a long time. In this context, the word "preserved" gives us a hint to look for a name that can be preserved or shortened from a longer name.
• When we consider the name "NED," it becomes clear why this answer fits the clue. "NED" is a common diminutive or nickname for the name "Edward." Therefore, "Can he be preserved?" refers to the name "Edward" being preserved or condensed down to the shorter form "NED," making it an apt and clever answer to the clue.

By understanding the wordplay and association with names in this crossword puzzle, we can appreciate how the seemingly abstract clue connects with the concise answer "NED." This showcases the creative ways in which crossword puzzles challenge us to think laterally and make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts to arrive at the correct solutions.

Definition of "NED"

a hooligan or petty criminal.

 The Crossword clue "Can he be preserved?" published 1 time/s & has 1 answer/s. 

Crossword	Date	Answer
Evening Standard - Cryptic	16 January 2019	NED