Ah, the New York Times crossword puzzle a daily ritual for many, a delightful brain workout, and sometimes, a source of utter frustration! But that’s part of the fun, right? The satisfaction of filling in that last square is truly unmatched.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie just dipping your toes into the world of crosswords, there are always those clues that seem impossible. Today, we’re tackling a particularly tricky type of clue, often seen in the NYT: the “brought about” clues!
Decoding the “Brought About” Clues in the NYT Crossword
So, what exactly are “brought about” clues? These clues are essentially asking you to find a word that caused something else to happen. Think of it as a cause-and-effect relationship. The answer is the cause, and the thing “brought about” is the effect.
For example, if the clue is “Brought about change,” the answer might be “SPARKED” or “TRIGGERED.” The key is to identify the effect described in the clue and then brainstorm words that could have caused that effect. It’s all about thinking causally!
A helpful strategy is to rephrase the clue as a sentence. Instead of “Brought about laughter,” think “What brought about laughter?” The answer might then become clearer, perhaps “JOKE” or “WIT.” Experiment and see what fits the grid!
Pay attention to the tense of the clue! If it’s “Brings about,” the answer needs to be in the present tense. If it’s “Brought about,” you’re looking for a past tense verb. This can significantly narrow down your options and make finding the solution easier.
Don’t be afraid to use cross-references! Often, you’ll have some letters filled in from other clues. Use those letters to your advantage when deciphering the “brought about” clues. Those cross-references can be the key to unlocking the answer.
Mastering the “brought about” clue takes practice, but it’s a valuable skill for any crossword enthusiast. With a little patience and some strategic thinking, you’ll be conquering those tricky clues in no time! Now go forth and fill those squares!