it's simultaneously attractive and repulsive nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "it's simultaneously attractive and repulsive" from the NYT crossword, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find the most accurate and commonly accepted solution, along with explanations to help you understand the answer better and enhance your crossword solving skills.
Solutions for "it's simultaneously attractive and repulsive nyt crossword" by Letter Count
10 Letters
AMBIVALENT: This term perfectly captures the essence of simultaneously experiencing opposing feelings, such as attraction and repulsion, towards someone or something.
More About "it's simultaneously attractive and repulsive nyt crossword"
The clue "it's simultaneously attractive and repulsive" is a classic example of how New York Times crosswords often delve into nuanced psychological or philosophical concepts. The answer, AMBIVALENT, is a powerful word derived from Latin roots, meaning 'both' (ambi-) and 'strong' or 'worth' (valentia). It describes a state of mind where one holds conflicting emotions or attitudes at the same time, making it the perfect fit for something that can draw you in while also pushing you away.
Understanding such clues requires not just vocabulary but also a grasp of subtle wordplay and the ability to think abstractly. An entity or idea that is 'ambivalent' isn't just neutral; it actively elicits both positive and negative responses, creating a complex internal dynamic. This duality is what the clue precisely targets, offering a challenging yet rewarding solve for crossword enthusiasts.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Nuance: Pay close attention to words like "simultaneously," "both," or "contradictory." These often point to answers that combine two opposing ideas, like "ambivalent," "bittersweet," or "paradox."
- Consider Psychological Terms: Many NYT clues hint at emotions, states of mind, or human behaviors. Familiarize yourself with common psychological vocabulary, as these often appear in clues that describe complex internal experiences.
- Think Beyond Literal Meanings: Crossword clues, especially from the NYT, frequently use figurative language or require you to infer a less common definition of a word. For "attractive and repulsive," don't just think literally about magnets, but consider emotional or conceptual attraction/repulsion.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ambivalent' mean in the context of a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'ambivalent' typically refers to having conflicting emotions or attitudes towards an object, person, or situation. When a clue like 'simultaneously attractive and repulsive' appears, 'ambivalent' is a strong candidate because it perfectly captures the duality of experiencing both positive and negative feelings at once.
How can I identify answers related to psychological states in crosswords?
Look for clues that describe feelings, thoughts, or internal conflicts. Words like 'state of mind,' 'feeling,' 'emotion,' 'reaction,' or 'attitude' often hint at psychological terms. Clues that involve paradoxes or contradictions, such as 'simultaneously X and Y,' are also good indicators.
Are there other words that mean 'simultaneously attractive and repulsive'?
While 'AMBIVALENT' is the most common and precise crossword answer for this specific phrasing, other words might imply a similar duality depending on the context, such as 'polarizing' (causing strong, opposing opinions) or 'bittersweet' (a mix of pleasure and sadness). However, for the exact nuance of 'attractive and repulsive,' AMBIVALENT is usually the intended solution.