KAKURO Meaning and
Definition
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Kakuro is a logic-based numerical puzzle that originated in Japan. Also known as Cross Sums or Cross Addition, it is a crossword-style game involving numbers. The objective of kakuro is to fill a grid with digits, from 1 to 9, without repetition, such that the sums of the numbers in each vertical or horizontal sequence match the clues given on the side of the grid.
The puzzle grid consists of white cells and black cells. The black cells act as dividers between the sequences of numbers. Clues, usually given as numbers in small white cells, represent the sum of the digits in the corresponding sequence. The clues can be of different lengths and can vary from a single digit to a multiple-digit sum.
To solve kakuro, players must strategically fill in the white cells, one digit at a time, while ensuring that the sums of the sequences match the given clues. Deductive reasoning, along with some mathematical skills, is required to identify the correct digits to place. Elimination of possibilities and careful analysis of potential number combinations are crucial for solving the puzzle successfully.
Kakuro puzzles vary in difficulty, ranging from beginner-friendly to highly challenging. They are generally found in puzzle books, newspapers, and online platforms dedicated to logic-based games. Kakuro provides an engaging and stimulating way to exercise logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and concentration.
Etymology of KAKURO
The word "kakuro" is derived from the combination of two Japanese words: "kasan" meaning "addition" or "increase", and "uro" which is a shortening of "uroko", meaning "unknown". Hence, "kakuro" can be translated as "unknown addition" or "unknown increase". The name relates to the nature of the puzzle, as players must fill in a grid with numbers while adhering to the sum restrictions given for each row and column.
