What's the difference between the free solver and the AI explainer?

The free solver uses a rule-based engine (pattern matching, dictionary lookup) to suggest candidate answers. The AI explainer uses AI to understand the full semantic structure of any clue and gives you a complete explanation of why the answer works.

Do I need to create an account?

No. The free solver works without any sign-up. Create an account only if you want to upgrade to Pro, save your clue history, or track your progress.

Which cryptic crosswords does this work with?

Our solver works with any cryptic crossword clue in English — Guardian, Telegraph, Times, Independent, FT, and more. Just paste the clue text.

Is this a cheating tool?

We built this as a learning tool. Every explanation teaches you a wordplay pattern. The goal is to help you solve more clues on your own over time.

How accurate are the AI explanations?

AI-generated explanations may contain errors. We recommend verifying answers independently.

Can I cancel my subscription anytime?

Yes. Cancel through your account settings. You'll retain access until the end of your current billing period.

Do you offer refunds?

Yes. First-time subscribers can get a full refund within 7 days (monthly) or 14 days (annual).

Where does the example clue data come from?

Our example database uses publicly available cryptic crossword clues from eigenfoo/cryptics, licensed under the Open Database License (ODbL).

“Fish from the east (3)”

Reversal★★☆☆☆

Answer

COD

How the Wordplay Works

"From the east" is the reversal indicator (east = backwards in some contexts). DOC backwards = COD. The definition is "fish". This is a reversal clue.

About Reversal Clues

This is a Reversal type cryptic clue.

Learn more about Reversal clues →

More Reversal Clues

“Returned pets (4)”

Answer: STEP

Stuck on your own clue? Try our AI-powered solver.

Solve Your Clue →