In this grid horizontal and vertical words are symmetrical about the upper left to lower right diagonal.

This grid is to be reformed by replacing all letters in 6 steps having regard to symmetry, changing one letter at a time and using only English words.

While my solution reflects my title at which you might not arrive, can you at least publish a new grid under my rules?

Asides:
1. Show us any 3 x 3 grids which you have composed from a significantly different initial grid and their development.
2. Beginning with a 4 x 4 grid is it possible to arrive at a new grid, same rules, in 10 steps?

NOTE:
Because of the nature of the language - "English words" - is a difficult phrase to define. If a word seems to need justification then please do so; challenges are otherwise likely.

(In reply to Asides 2: Example (solution) by Dej Mar)

I had trouble fiddling with this and wondered, wondered if there were sufficient English words of the 'right combination' for a feasible solution.

Does 'hote' by any chance derive from the French?  I think I've seen it associated with some restaurants. 

Thank you for taking the time to accept the challenge.

Wonder if there may be other attempts.

Posted by brianjn on 2007-04-27 23:39:48