down during difficult times nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and got stuck on the clue "down during difficult times", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "down during difficult times nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BLUE: Feeling sad or depressed, often used colloquially to describe a low emotional state, fitting 'down' perfectly.
6 Letters
MOROSE: Sullen and ill-tempered, a state of deep gloom, accurately reflecting a state of being 'down' during hardship.
GLOOMY: Dark or dim; causing a feeling of sadness. This answer captures the atmosphere and emotional state of difficult times.
10 Letters
DESPONDENT: In low spirits from loss of hope or courage. This word strongly conveys the heavy emotional burden of challenging periods.
More About "down during difficult times nyt crossword"
The clue "down during difficult times" is a classic example of how crosswords use emotional states and contextual phrases to guide solvers. The word "down" here isn't about physical direction but rather a state of mind – specifically, feeling low or dispirited. When paired with "difficult times," it reinforces the idea of emotional distress or sadness.
Solving such clues often requires thinking about synonyms for 'sadness' or 'unhappiness' that fit various letter counts. The New York Times crossword, known for its clever and sometimes tricky wordplay, frequently uses these kinds of figurative expressions. Recognizing this pattern is a key skill for improving your crossword performance, allowing you to quickly discard literal interpretations and focus on the metaphorical.
Words like BLUE, MOROSE, GLOOMY, and DESPONDENT all share the core meaning of being 'down' emotionally, but each carries a slightly different nuance in intensity or expression. Choosing the correct answer depends on the available letters in the grid and how well a specific synonym aligns with the overall theme or other intersecting clues in the puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and nuances: For emotional clues like 'down', always brainstorm a range of synonyms that convey similar feelings, but pay attention to subtle differences in meaning that might fit the context better.
- Look at word length first: Before diving deep into definitions, check the number of letters required. This instantly narrows down your options significantly, saving you time and effort.
- Utilize crossing letters: Don't try to solve the clue in isolation. The letters you've filled in from intersecting words are your best friends. They often reveal the specific answer you need by eliminating incorrect possibilities.
- Think figuratively: If a clue seems too simple or literal, consider its figurative meaning. Crosswords, especially the NYT, love to play with idioms, metaphors, and common phrases that have a deeper or alternative interpretation.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the common meaning of 'down' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'down' often refers to a state of sadness, depression, or low energy. When paired with phrases like 'difficult times' or 'spirits', it almost certainly points to an emotional state rather than a physical direction.
Are there multiple answers for crossword clues like 'down during difficult times'?
Yes, many crossword clues, especially those relating to emotions or states of being, can have multiple valid answers. The specific word length required by the puzzle is key to narrowing down the possibilities.
How can I improve my success with New York Times crosswords?
Consistent practice, learning common crosswordese (frequently used words), paying close attention to wordplay and double meanings, and utilizing resources like Answercrossword.com for challenging clues are all excellent strategies to enhance your NYT crossword solving abilities.