blow up nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "blow up" from the New York Times crossword, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "blow up nyt crossword" by Letter Count
6 Letters
ENRAGE: To make someone extremely angry; a common meaning for a person to 'blow up' emotionally.
EXPAND: To increase in size or volume, as when you 'blow up' a balloon.
7 Letters
EXPLODE: To burst or shatter violently, which is the literal meaning of something 'blowing up'.
MAGNIFY: To make something appear larger, often used in the context of 'blowing up' a photograph or image.
8 Letters
DETONATE: To cause an explosive device to explode; a more precise term for initiating a 'blow up'.
More About "blow up nyt crossword"
The clue "blow up" is a classic example of how a simple phrase can have multiple interpretations in a crossword puzzle, especially in the challenging New York Times. Its versatility comes from being a phrasal verb with distinct meanings depending on context. It can describe a literal explosion, a person losing their temper, or even the act of enlarging an image or object.
Crossword constructors often leverage such polysemous words to add layers of difficulty and cleverness to their puzzles. When you encounter a clue like this, consider the possible synonyms for each meaning of "blow up" – whether it's related to anger, destruction, or growth. The surrounding letters, the theme of the puzzle, and the day of the week (NYT puzzles get harder through the week) will often provide subtle hints.
Understanding these nuances is key to mastering the New York Times crossword. By recognizing the various ways a common phrase can be clued, solvers can anticipate potential answers and approach the puzzle with a more strategic mindset, turning a challenging clue into a satisfying solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think about alternative definitions for words in clues, especially for phrasal verbs like "blow up."
- Check Letter Count: The number of boxes for the answer is a crucial hint. If 'blow up' could mean 'enrage' (6 letters) or 'explode' (7 letters), the letter count will narrow it down.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Pay attention to the surrounding clues and any overarching theme in the puzzle. If other clues relate to photography, 'MAGNIFY' might be the answer.
- Use Cross-References: Don't get stuck on one clue. Solve easier intersecting words first; their letters will often reveal parts of the trickier answers like "blow up."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a phrasal verb in crosswords?
A phrasal verb is a verb combined with a preposition or adverb, or both, that functions as a single semantic unit. In crosswords, they are often clued to exploit their various meanings (e.g., 'blow up' can mean explode, or get angry).
How often does "blow up" appear in NYT crosswords?
Variations of the phrase "blow up" are fairly common in crosswords due to their multiple meanings. It allows constructors to create diverse and challenging clues that can trick solvers who only consider one interpretation.
Should I guess answers if I'm unsure?
It's generally better to hold off on guessing if you're completely unsure, as a wrong answer can make intersecting clues harder to solve. However, if you have a strong suspicion and can't make progress otherwise, a tentative pencil entry can sometimes reveal enough to confirm or deny it.