What does the cryptic crossword clue "Difficulty following depression as an alternative state (8)" mean?

The definition is "state". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). COL (synonym="‘depression’ – a mountain pass") + OR (synonym="‘as an alternative’") + ADO (synonym="‘difficulty’") = COLORADO; definition: "state" The answer is COLORADO.

Difficulty following depression as an alternative state (8)

Guardian Cryptic #29281 | 20 Across | 2024-01-17 flower

← Back to puzzle

Visit Guardian's puzzle site →