*Bakery display piece

Answer:

CAKE STAND (take the cake & take a stand)

Hint:

Think of what elevates desserts in a shop window—this two-word item also plays on phrases about winning and taking a firm position.

Explanation:

This clue plays on two meanings of "take." "Take the cake" is a phrase meaning to win or be outstanding, while "take a stand" means to hold a firm position. Combine them, and you get "CAKE STAND," a literal bakery display piece that also cleverly merges both idioms. The answer works as both a physical object and a punny twist on familiar expressions.

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General solving tip

When a clue says 'informally,' 'slangily,' or 'casually,' think slang, clipped forms, or texting abbreviations. Try the short casual word you'd use in speech or a message.

More tips → General Hints