Inquisitor 1215

[x_word_fan]

I now have a completed grid (thanks to doorbell) but can't make sense of the clashes neither can I spot any of the 13 words - are the last 2 numeral and score? The first word or two of the definition would help.

[Red Dave]

Try reading backwards with the title in mind.

[serpentinew]

Can I ask what solution you have for 38ac - I'm positive the rest of the grid is correct in that the changed letters define the hyphenated theme. It would appear that it has to be T??T

[Laphria]

It does and it doesn't (work that one out!). It was the last one I got, and the key is in the parsing, which is very cunningly disguised. If you look for words that fit your pattern, and remember words 2 and 3 in the clue, the penny should drop, and be confirmed by the dictionary.

[x_word_fan]

I also have the answer as T??T the def'n is How - whic has several meanings in Chambers. just looking at this again - Red Dave - doesour comment efer to the letters or the 13 items or both?

[x_word_fan]

Oops - Your comment and refer!

[serpentinew]

x_word_fan - read the title in the right direction, the grid the other way

[Red Dave]

My comment refers to the thirteen highlighted words. Once I realised what they were I was able to work out the necessary changes to certain words and build on that until I got the definition.

Indeed, that definition shows me that 38A must be T??T. I have two possible answers (TACT and TROT) and though I favour one of them I cannot be certain of my answer.

[Laphria]

There is at least one other t??t - the correct one. Find it, and all will make abundant sense.

[x_word_fan]

Thanks Dave - will look tomorrow as we are out tonight n- try OO

[Indy-trier]

I have loads of answers but I'm getting more than one misprint in some of the words (eg. 29A, 33A, 34D, & also 19A) when the preamble says there should only be one in each. Where am I going wrong? Any tips gratefully received.

[Red Dave]

You're not going wrong, but when you finalise the grid each entry has only one misprint.

I have now solved 38A which was giving me a real headache, and having solved it, I appreciate the remark above. I had failed to see which word was the definition!

[x_word_fan]

Dave - on another thread it gives TOFT for 38a - just spotted my first 2 words so things should speed up now.

[Indy-trier]

Thanks Red Dave! I'm still sure I've made an extra mistake somewhere though as I've 3 clashes in 19A, and 3 in 29A, ending up with one correct clash and 2 misprints in each! I must have convinced myself that some wrong answers are right - I think! Doh!

[x_word_fan]

Still not convinced about 38 TOOT/TOFT - just need the 10 letter word - a few possibles but not linking to the 13 ??

[x_word_fan]

- and of course as soon as I posted I got it!

[Voulez-vous]

Almost resigned to not finishing this one! I have realised what the 13 are, but still have a couple (or more) of cold clues I haven't answered. Help will be much appreciated on

10d) College with news about food for whales (4)
26d) Elizabeth's grandchild keeps on good terms with German Bohemian
32d) Oil-filled cavities quickly absorbing reduced tar (6)

[Q-lyn]

dont have my copy with me but think it was something like - clio - z(ing)ara and vittae

[Voulez-vous]

Thanks Q-lyn! Hopefully I can move on with that!