The 2-word phrase generally used as an off-the-cuff time period for a fast, typically impromptu competitors, usually a dash, finds frequent use in crossword puzzles. A typical resolution is “DASH OFF.”
This time period’s prevalence in crosswords highlights the intersection of informal language and wordplay. Its concise nature makes it an excellent match for the constraints of crossword grids, whereas its informality provides a contact of colloquialism to the puzzle. This mix of on a regular basis language and puzzle-solving contributes to the enduring recognition of crosswords as a pastime. Such clues problem solvers to suppose past literal definitions and take into account nuanced expressions.