exploits nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your go-to source for solving challenging crossword clues. Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for "exploits nyt crossword", covering various word lengths to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "exploits nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
USES: To take advantage of something; to make use of resources or opportunities.
5 Letters
FEATS: Notable achievements or heroic deeds, often accomplished with skill or bravery.
DEEDS: Actions or accomplishments, often of a significant or heroic nature; synonyms for feats.
6 Letters
MINING: The process of extracting minerals or other geological materials from the earth; to exploit natural resources.
7 Letters
GAMBITS: A strategic move or action, sometimes involving taking advantage of a situation.
10 Letters
VICTIMIZES: To treat someone unfairly in order to gain an advantage, a strong form of exploiting individuals.
More About "exploits nyt crossword"
The word "exploits" is a fascinating and frequently used clue in crosswords, particularly in the New York Times, due to its rich semantic ambiguity. It can refer to two distinct concepts: remarkable achievements or heroic deeds (as in "the exploits of a daring adventurer") and the act of taking advantage of something, often in a manipulative or selfish way (as in "exploiting natural resources" or "exploiting a weakness"). This duality is a favorite tool of crossword constructors, designed to challenge solvers to consider both interpretations.
When encountering "exploits" in a crossword, the key to finding the correct answer often lies in the context provided by intersecting words and the number of letters required. Answers such as FEATS or DEEDS typically align with the "achievements" meaning, while words like USES, LEVERAGES, or even phrases implying unfair gain can point to the "taking advantage" interpretation. Understanding this nuanced usage is crucial for mastering such clues and completing your puzzle successfully.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: Always remember that many words, like "exploits," have multiple meanings. Be prepared to pivot your thinking from one definition to another if your initial attempts don't fit.
- Leverage Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by intersecting words are your best friends. They can quickly narrow down the possibilities and confirm which meaning of "exploits" the puzzle setter intends.
- Think About Parts of Speech: While not always obvious, consider if "exploits" is being used as a noun (e.g., "heroic deeds") or a verb (e.g., "he exploits the situation"). This can guide you towards verb-like or noun-like answers.
- Review Common Crossword Synonyms: Familiarize yourself with common synonyms for both interpretations of "exploits." For achievements, think DEEDS, FEATS, ACCOMPLISHMENTS. For taking advantage, consider USES, ABUSES, LEVERAGES.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'exploits' typically mean in a crossword clue?
The word 'exploits' is a classic crossword clue due to its dual meaning. It can refer to remarkable achievements or heroic deeds (as a noun), or to the act of taking advantage of something, often unfairly or for gain (as a verb or noun). Crossword setters frequently use this ambiguity to create challenging clues.
How do I know if 'exploits' refers to achievements or taking advantage in a crossword?
Determining the correct meaning depends heavily on context. Look at the number of letters required for the answer, any intersecting letters from other clues, and whether the clue is phrased as a noun or a verb (though this isn't always explicit). Answers like FEATS or DEEDS point to achievements, while USES or ABUSES might indicate taking advantage.
Are 'exploits' clues common in the NYT crossword?
Yes, clues involving 'exploits' are quite common in the NYT and other crosswords precisely because of their versatile and ambiguous nature. They allow setters to use a single word to hint at a wide range of synonyms, making them excellent candidates for tricky but fair clues.