Span to go in other's shoes (4) - Crossword Clue
Answer: MILE
Understanding This Crossword Clue
This clue represents a cryptic definition with idiomatic wordplay, where "span" serves as the surface definition meaning a distance or measurement, while "to go in other's shoes" cleverly references the familiar phrase "walk a mile in someone's shoes." The solver must recognize the idiom to arrive at MILE as the answer that satisfies both the literal distance meaning and the idiomatic reference.
Why MILE Is the Correct Answer
- MILE works perfectly for this clue on multiple levels. As a span or distance measurement, a mile equals 5,280 feet or approximately 1,609 meters. The phrase "walk a mile in someone's shoes" means to experience life from another person's perspective before judging them. The 4-letter count matches exactly: M-I-L-E.
- The clue's elegance lies in how "span" can mean distance while "go in other's shoes" points toward the empathy idiom, making MILE the only word that satisfies both interpretations simultaneously.
Common Crossword Variations for MILE
Crossword constructors might present MILE through various clever approaches:
- "5,280 feet" – using the exact measurement
- "Distance runner's goal" – emphasizing athletic achievement
- "Four laps around a track" – describing a standard running track
- "Nautical ___ (6,076 feet)" – cluing the related measurement
- "Statute ___" – using the formal legal term
- "Extra distance metaphor" – referencing "go the extra mile"
- "Roman mille passus" – using the Latin etymology
Span to go in other's shoes (4) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Why does the clue say "other's shoes" instead of "someone else's shoes"?
A: Crossword constructors often abbreviate phrases to fit clue space constraints and create more challenging wordplay. "Other's shoes" is sufficient to evoke the familiar idiom while keeping the clue concise.
Q: Could other 4-letter distance measurements fit this clue?
A: While YARD, FOOT, and INCH are 4-letter distance measurements, only MILE fits the "walk a mile in someone's shoes" idiom referenced by "go in other's shoes." The idiom reference makes MILE the definitive answer.
Q: Is "span" commonly used to mean distance?
A: Yes, "span" can mean a distance or extent, though it more commonly refers to the width of something or a period of time. In crossword clues, words often use less common definitions to create misdirection.
Q: How do I recognize when a clue is referencing an idiom?
A: Look for phrases that seem slightly unusual or incomplete. "Go in other's shoes" isn't how people normally speak, suggesting it's pointing toward a familiar expression. Practice with idiom-based clues builds recognition skills.
