A common clue type is the “container.”  When the answer is made up of one word inside another you have a “container.”

Some simple examples:

lawless = tool (awl) among smaller (less) . . .

pageantry = closet (pantry) around old (age) . . .

Container clues may be made up of abbreviations:

forged = organization (org) inside federal (fed) . . .

And, containers can also use “directions” as to either definition:

ashamed = embarrassment (shame) between ends of agitated (a-d) . . .

Components of a Container Clue

There are typically four parts to a container clue.

1.  The definition

2.  Definition of the outside word (the container)

3.  Definition of the inner word (sometimes called the “content”)

4.  Indicator – the indicator directs the solver to put one word around the other, or one word inside the other.  (The container clue may use either of two sequences – outside first, then inside; or the reverse – inside, then outside.)

a. Here are some indicators that instruct the solver to put the inner word inside the outer: inside, flanked by, sheltered by, buried in

b. Here are some indicators that instruct the solver to put the outer word outside the inner: outside, covering, containing, around

Some simple examples of container clues:

Trespass around L.A. dead (5)

Answer is “slain” –- trespass = sin, L.A. = la, dead = slain

Hide blade in hard drive (5)

Answer is “hoard” –- blade = oar, hard drive = hd, hide = hoard

Aloof around synthesizer work group (7)

Answer is “carpool” –- aloof = cool, synthesizer = arp, work group = carpool

Place Al in retirement phase (5)

Answer is “realm” –- Al = al, retirement phase = REM, place = realm