Hey crossword fans! Ever get that feeling of joyful accomplishment when you finally crack a tough clue? Or maybe that slight twinge of frustration when you’re totally stumped? We all know the feeling, especially when tackling the New York Times crossword.
Today, we’re diving into a little crossword quirk that pops up every now and then: the “etc. etc.” clue! It might seem a bit vague at first, but understanding how it works can seriously boost your solving skills and bring even more fun to your puzzling experience.
Decoding the “etc. etc.” NYT Crossword Clue
So, what’s the deal with “etc. etc.”? Essentially, it signals that the answer is a repetition of something, often a sound, a word, or a short phrase. Think about common uses of “etcetera.” It implies more of the same, and that’s exactly how it functions in crossword clues.
One common application is indicating repeated sounds. If the clue is “Chug chug,” the answer might be “CHOOCHOO”. Similarly, “Bark bark” would be “BOWWOW”. It’s all about recognizing the pattern of reduplication within the clue itself and applying it to find the answer.
Beyond sounds, “etc. etc.” can also point to repeated words or parts of words. For example, a clue like “Bye bye” could lead to an answer like “GOODBYE”. Look for how the clue is constructed and think about familiar phrases that use repetition for emphasis or meaning.
When you see “etc. etc.” in a clue, try to identify the core element being repeated. Is it a sound an animal makes? Is it a simple word? Once you pinpoint the repeating element, the solution often falls into place quite quickly, giving you that satisfying “aha!” moment.
Don’t be afraid to use crossing letters to your advantage. Even if you’re unsure of the exact answer, letters from intersecting words can give you valuable hints and help you confirm your suspicions about the repeated element. Collaboration with other solvers helps too!
Keep an eye out for slight variations in the “etc. etc.” clue. Sometimes, the clue might use “ditto, ditto” or a similar phrase to indicate repetition. These clues all operate on the same principle, so understanding the core concept will make you a more confident solver. So, keep puzzling on!