“Is het gebrek niet te beknopt? (4) letters” is a cryptic crossword clue that challenges the solver to think outside the box and come up with a word that fits the criteria. In this case, the answer is “lang,” which is Dutch for “long.”
Cryptic crosswords are a popular form of puzzle that require a combination of lateral thinking, wordplay, and general knowledge to solve. The clues are typically split into two parts: a definition (which may be straightforward or cryptic) and a wordplay element that hints at how to derive the answer.
In this particular clue, the word “gebrek” translates to “lack” or “shortage” in English, while “te beknopt” means “too concise” or “too brief.” By combining these elements, the solver can deduce that the answer must be the opposite of concise – in other words, a word that means long or lengthy.
Cryptic crosswords can be a fun and challenging way to test your vocabulary and problem-solving skills. By breaking down the clues and thinking creatively, you can decipher the hidden meanings and uncover the answers to even the trickiest puzzles. So next time you come across a cryptic crossword clue like “Is het gebrek niet te beknopt? (4) letters,” don’t be afraid to dive in and give it a try!