flings nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on the 'flings' clue from the NYT crossword? You've come to the right place! We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and confidently.
Solutions for "flings nyt crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
DATES: Refers to brief romantic relationships or casual encounters.
CASTS: To throw something with force, often referring to a quick, forceful motion.
6 Letters
THROWS: To propel something through the air with a movement of the arm and hand.
TOSSES: To throw something lightly or carelessly.
More About "flings nyt crossword"
The word "flings" is a classic example of a crossword clue that leverages multiple meanings. In the context of a New York Times crossword, which is known for its clever and often challenging wordplay, "flings" can refer to throwing something with force, or it can imply brief, casual romantic relationships. This duality is precisely what makes such clues intriguing and, at times, frustrating for solvers.
When encountering "flings" in a puzzle, seasoned solvers will immediately consider both interpretations. The surrounding clues, the number of letters in the answer grid, and the theme of the puzzle (if any) are crucial in narrowing down the possibilities. Common synonyms for the "throwing" sense include THROWS, TOSSES, HEAVES, and CASTS, while the "romantic" sense might lead to answers like DATES or AFFAIR, usually implying a short-lived liaison.
Understanding this nuanced usage is key to mastering NYT crosswords. The constructors delight in these linguistic ambiguities, pushing solvers to think beyond the most obvious definition and consider all facets of a word's meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: For a clue like "flings," think of all possible words that mean the same or the opposite. Brainstorm words related to both "throwing" and "brief encounters."
- Check the word length: The number of letters in the answer slot is your most powerful hint. If you have "flings" and the answer needs 5 letters, you can rule out 6-letter words like THROWS immediately.
- Look for context clues: Sometimes, another clue in the puzzle or the puzzle's theme can hint at which meaning of "flings" is intended. For instance, if other clues are sports-related, "THROWS" might be more likely than "DATES."
- Practice with past puzzles: The more NYT crosswords you solve, the more familiar you'll become with their common clue patterns and the types of wordplay they use, including ambiguous words like "flings."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "flings" have multiple answers in crosswords?
Crossword constructors often use words with multiple meanings to create challenging clues. "Flings" can mean to throw or to have a brief romantic relationship, leading to varied answers depending on the context the constructor intends.
How do I know if "flings" refers to throwing or dating?
Context is key! Look at the surrounding clues, the number of letters required, and any other words in the clue. For instance, clues like "Casts, perhaps" or "Casual dates" would give a hint.
Are NYT crossword clues always straightforward?
No, NYT crossword clues are renowned for their cleverness and often employ puns, double meanings, and misdirection. This makes them challenging but also rewarding to solve.