break down nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "break down" in your New York Times crossword, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the possible answers and explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "break down nyt crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SOB: To weep with convulsive gasps, often referring to an emotional breakdown.
7 Letters
ANALYZE: To examine methodically and in detail the constitution or structure of something, especially information, for purposes of explanation and interpretation.
DISSECT: To methodically cut up (a body or plant) in order to study its internal parts; to analyze (an idea or work) in minute detail.
CRUMBLE: To break or fall apart into small fragments, especially over a period of time; to disintegrate gradually.
8 Letters
COLLAPSE: To fall down or in; to break apart and fall inward suddenly; to give way or fail abruptly.
MELTDOWN: A rapid and severe decline or collapse, often used in emotional or financial contexts.
9 Letters
DECOMPOSE: To separate or resolve into constituent parts or elements; to make or become rotten; decay.
More About "break down nyt crossword"
The clue "break down" is a classic example of how crossword constructors leverage the rich nuances of the English language. This phrase can imply a variety of actions, from scientific analysis to emotional distress, making it a tricky but rewarding clue to solve. Understanding the different contexts in which "break down" can be used is key to cracking these types of puzzles.
In the scientific or analytical sense, 'break down' often points towards words like ANALYZE or DECOMPOSE, referring to the process of dissecting something into its core components or its natural decay. Conversely, when used in a more human or psychological context, it can refer to a loss of composure, leading to answers like SOB or WEEP. The brilliance of such clues lies in their ability to make solvers consider multiple possibilities, relying on letter count and intersecting words to narrow down the correct answer.
New York Times crosswords, in particular, are known for their clever and multifaceted clues. They often feature common phrases with uncommon interpretations, pushing solvers to think outside the box. Mastering clues like "break down" not only helps you complete a single puzzle but also enhances your overall crossword-solving skills, preparing you for future linguistic challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think about all possible interpretations of a clue, literal and figurative, especially for common phrases like "break down."
- Check Letter Count First: Use the number of letters required for the answer as your primary filter. This immediately eliminates many possibilities.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Fill in any letters from intersecting words. These crucial letters will often reveal the correct answer when a clue has multiple possibilities.
- Think About the Puzzle's Theme: Sometimes, the overall theme of the crossword can provide hints about which meaning of a word is intended.
- Don't Be Afraid to Use a Helper: If you're truly stumped, using an online resource like Answercrossword.com is a great way to learn new vocabulary and clue types.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "break down" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "break down" is a versatile clue. It can refer to analyzing something (like data), decomposing physically (like a substance), or an emotional collapse (like sobbing or weeping). The specific answer depends heavily on the letter count and surrounding letters in the puzzle.
How can I find common answers for multi-meaning clues like "break down"?
When encountering multi-meaning clues, consider all possible interpretations: literal, figurative, and idiomatic. Try synonyms for each meaning, think about different parts of speech, and always use the letter count and any intersecting letters as critical guides. Context from the puzzle's theme or other clues can also be invaluable.
Why are there multiple answers for the same crossword clue?
Many words in English have multiple meanings or synonyms. Crossword constructors often use this linguistic richness to create challenging clues that can have several valid solutions depending on the puzzle's specific design, theme, and the required letter count. Our goal is to provide all common possibilities to help you solve it.