Things related to airplanes
Runways and air fit perfectly, and decks might stretch to aircraft carriers, but a name or throat doesn't belong in aviation.
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LinkedIn Pinpoint #584 Answer:
Detailed breakdown continues just below - keep scrolling
Pinpoint #584 Walkthrough & Analysis
Puzzle Overview
Today's puzzle leans on idiomatic English. Each clue is the object of a phrase that uses the verb "clear" to remove obstacles (runways, decks), resolve tension (air), or restore personal readiness (name, throat). Spotting that repeating action is the key to cracking Pinpoint #584.
How the Solution Emerged
Many solvers latch onto travel thanks to runways, air, and decks, but the pattern wobbles when personal clues appear. Saying "clear the ___" out loud with each word quickly highlights the overlap. Once you try it with "name" and "throat," the idiom clicks and the entire board reorganizes.
Common wrong guesses
Items you prepare before battle
Clearing decks is nautical, yet clearing your name or throat has nothing to do with combat readiness.
Things that need maintenance
Everything listed can be maintained, but the clue set is pointing at a specific idiom, not a general upkeep theme.
How each clue fits "Things that can be cleared"
How each clue fits "Things that can be cleared"
| Word | Origin | In Context (Usage) | Meaning & Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Runways | — | “Clear the runways” | Before takeoff and landing, crews remove snow, debris, or aircraft backlog to clear the runways. |
| The air | — | “Clear the air” | To resolve a dispute or release tension by talking things through. |
| The decks | — | “Clear the decks” | To remove clutter or distractions so you're ready for action—originating from naval practice. |
| One's name | — | “Clear one's name” | To prove innocence and restore trust after an accusation. |
| One's throat (perhaps with warm water) | — | “Clear one's throat” | To cough or drink warm water to remove irritation and prepare to speak. |
Lessons Learned from Pinpoint #584
- 1
Listen for repeating verbs
When nouns feel unrelated, try pairing them with versatile verbs like clear, set, or make to expose hidden idioms.
- 2
Mix of literal and figurative clues
Some runs are physical (runways, decks) while others are metaphorical (air, name, throat). Expect Pinpoint to blend both.
- 3
Anchor oddball clues first
Personal clues such as "one's name" or "one's throat" often signal the connector—use them to test theories quickly.
FAQ
What links Runways, the air, the decks, one's name, and one's throat?
They are all things you can "clear," forming idioms like clear the air, clear the decks, clear your name, and clear your throat.
How do I avoid over-focusing on one domain?
When several clues suggest a theme (travel, nautical, etc.), check whether every clue fits equally well. If not, search for a broader action or verb.
Why is warm water mentioned with the throat clue?
Because people often clear their throat by sipping warm water, reinforcing the idea that the throat is the target of the clearing action.