What connects Runways, The air, The decks, One's name, One's throat (perhaps with warm water)?
The connection is that all of these things can be 'cleared' in some sense, whether physically, environmentally, personally, or socially.
💡 Hover (desktop) or tap (mobile) each clue to see how it connects to the answer
LinkedIn Pinpoint #584 Answer:
Detailed breakdown continues just below - keep scrolling
Pinpoint #584 Walkthrough & Analysis
Puzzle Overview
Pinpoint #584 is a masterclass in misdirection, presenting a series of clues that cleverly conceal the true connection, leading solvers down a path of initial confusion before revealing the unexpected link.
How the Solution Emerged
The opening trio of Runways, The air, and The decks sets a strong 'Category Distractor' trap, leading solvers to consider transportation or geographical themes. However, the disruption arrives with One's name, forcing a strategy change and introducing the concept of personal or possessive connections. The final clue, One's throat (perhaps with warm water), solidifies the correct category, which is 'Things that can be cleared', such as a runway can be cleared for takeoff, the air can be cleared of pollution, a deck can be cleared of obstacles, one's name can be cleared of negative associations, and one's throat can be cleared with warm water.
💡 The Correct Connections
Once the answer was revealed, everything made perfect sense. Here's how each clue connects:
- Runways (clear the runway): A runway can be cleared for takeoff, indicating a physical or logistical clearing.
- The air (clear the air): The air can be cleared of pollution or negative energies, representing a more abstract or environmental clearing.
- The decks (clear the decks): A deck can be cleared of obstacles or clutter, signifying a physical or spatial clearing.
- One's name (clear one's name): One's name can be cleared of negative associations or reputational damage, representing a more personal or social clearing.
- One's throat (perhaps with warm water) (clear one's throat): One's throat can be cleared with warm water, indicating a physical or health-related clearing.
Lessons Learned from Pinpoint #584
- 1
Beware the 'Category Distractor'
Be cautious of initial clues that strongly suggest a particular category, as they may be intended to mislead. Instead, remain flexible and open to alternative connections.
- 2
Filter by Location and Context
Consider the context and location of each clue to help disambiguate potential connections and identify the correct category.
- 3
Watch for Pivot Points
Pay attention to clues that disrupt or challenge your initial assumptions, as they often signal a shift in the correct direction.
- 4
Spot the Invisible Verb
Sometimes the link isn't the noun itself, but a verb that applies to all of them (like 'Clear'). Test action words against the whole list.
FAQ
Why isn't 'Transportation Hubs' the answer?
While some of the clues relate to transportation, the category is too narrow and doesn't account for the personal or abstract connections introduced by later clues.
How do I avoid falling for the 'Category Distractor' trap in future puzzles?
Remain vigilant and open-minded, considering alternative connections and considering the context and location of each clue to help identify the correct category.
What does 'Clear the decks' actually mean?
It is a naval idiom originating from preparing a ship for battle by removing unnecessary objects from the deck. Now it generally means clearing away obstacles to prepare for a task.