ev 774

[Physicsgirl]

16a - not sure which form the answer should take - mecca or makah? This is because I have no down answers, and whilst the clue seems to indicate makah, this would mean there was no definition part to the clue. Finding this one very tough, what does everyone else think? Thanks

[cruciverbali]

This is an &lit clue, where the entire clue acts as both the definition and the wordplay. Makah (or Makkah) is an alternative spelling of Mecca, whose holiest shrine is the Kaaba.

C

[Physicsgirl]

thanks cruciverbalist, I knew it was one of the two but didn't realise that there were such clues, although I did think it was rather neat if the answer was makah. How are you getting on?

[cruciverbali]

I am fine, thank you. Your posting reminded me to take a look at today's EV on the Telegraph site, so 16 was the first clue I looked at. I now have 11, 21, 23 and 26, but am going to watch 'The Queen' now.

C

[Physicsgirl]

You have the exact clues that I have, but have also managed 33 too. But I'm unsure about 23. What took you 5 minutes probably took me hours! Enjoy "The Queen". Nice to hear from you again.

[novalis]

Have all answers but 5 down which I think is the "awkward" one. Trouble is I cant't find which letter represents "s" in spoonbait ( 14d ), "v" in hovel ( 23d ) and "c" in chew
( 28d ). Will be out most of the day but will look at it when I get back.

[slaney]

Got as far as 5d as well, but now trying to work out the alphabet permutation
Doesn't seem to be a simple shift, and have tried using 'pendant' as a keyword in a ciphertext alphabet without success.

[novalis]

The problem seems to be with 5d that the clue does not gove rise to a ten letter answer and yet the entry is ten letters. ( Preamble indicates that there is one such entry. )
Code I have ( with gaps ) accommodates all other down entries. I have z?x?qplj?g with pl = ut. I suspect the entry is more than one word in code because I can't find a suitable fit for a one word entry. I'll keep trying and will post if I come uo with anything.

[Physicsgirl]

reassuring that your entry for 5d agrees with my answers so far. At least I'm on the right track. Thanks, Novalis. Will obviously post if I get anywhere but I suspect someone else will solve long before I do!

[cruciverbali]

Try writing out the alphabet in code for some extra information

Cruciverbalist

[Christiana]

Good morning, Physicsgirl. Wondered how you were getting on, now. I've not had much time this week, but looked at it yesterday. I think I have the general idea and have a fair few of the 'across' clues, but only have 3 or 4 of the 'down' clues. Won't be able to spare much time today, either, but will press on during the week.

[Physicsgirl]

likewise, Christiana. I'm back at work now so don't have as much time but keep making minor breakthroughs. Definitely won't be submitting the grid this week but hope to get almost finished if I can. Will keep plodding!

[Christiana]

Have posted another thread. If you get stuck it might help - or it might confuse! I am so near to finishing yet still stuck on 22d plus a full understanding of the 5d) mystery. http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/Quizzes-and-Puz zles/Question451888.html

[cruciverbali]

22d: ENODAL coded as DACEFT

C

PS Ignore the clue at 5 down !!

[Christiana]

Thanks C. Have now finished. Tricky little number but satisfying to complete.