Decrypto · Board game rules
Can a player give clues that are too similar to the secret word?
Quick answer
Clues must not use the keyword itself or its translation, but similar terms related to the keyword's meaning are allowed.
Details
The rules state that clues must refer to the meaning of the keywords and must never directly use the keyword itself, its spelling, position, pronunciation, or private information [p.5 — 2.1.3 -a BLUES]. For example, if a keyword is "dragonfly," a clue like "insect" is acceptable (as shown in the example on page 2), but "dragonfly" itself cannot be used as a clue. Clues must also be based on public knowledge and avoid referencing the keyword directly.
Additionally, clues cannot be repeated in the same game, and they must clearly correspond to the keyword’s meaning rather than its form. The rulebook emphasizes that clues like "C" to hint at "Cursed" or "8 letters" for "Scorpion" are prohibited, but conceptual connections (e.g., "Mexico" for "sombrero") are valid.
Watch out: While similar terms are permitted, overly direct clues (e.g., "winged insect" for "dragonfly") might risk revealing the keyword to opponents. Teams must balance clarity for their team with ambiguity for opponents.