last word nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your go-to resource for solving those tricky crossword clues! If you're looking for the answer to "last word nyt crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate solutions along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzling skills.
Solutions for "last word nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
AMEN: Often the last word in a prayer or a declaration of agreement, commonly used in religious contexts or to express strong affirmation.
5 Letters
ENVOI: A short stanza concluding a poem, often serving as a summary, dedication, or moral. It provides a final thought or twist.
6 Letters
FINALE: The concluding part of a performance, musical work, or event. It represents the grand closing act or piece.
8 Letters
EPILOGUE: A section or speech at the end of a book or play that serves as a comment on or a conclusion to what has happened, often providing insight into the characters' future.
9 Letters
ULTIMATUM: A final demand or statement of terms, the rejection of which will result in retaliation or a breakdown in relations. It's often seen as the 'last word' in a negotiation.
More About "last word nyt crossword"
The clue 'last word' in a New York Times crossword puzzle often plays on various meanings and contexts, making it a versatile and sometimes tricky entry. It can refer to the literal end of a speech, a book, or a musical piece. Puzzlers need to consider the specific nuances of the clue's phrasing and any surrounding words to determine the intended answer. For instance, 'last word in prayer' clearly points to AMEN, while 'last word on a subject' might imply a definitive statement or conclusion.
Beyond the literal, 'last word' can also be used figuratively. It might refer to a decisive statement, an ultimatum, or the final say in an argument. The cleverness of NYT crossword constructors often lies in their ability to twist common phrases into unexpected interpretations. Always think about idioms and common expressions that use the phrase 'last word' to unlock these types of clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Context: Always look at the surrounding clues and any crossing letters you've already filled in. The context of a clue like "last word" can drastically narrow down the possibilities. Is it a person's last word, a play's last word, or a general concept?
- Think Figuratively and Literally: As seen with "last word," many crossword clues have both literal and figurative interpretations. If a literal answer doesn't fit, try thinking of idioms or common sayings.
- Check Word Lengths: The number of letters required for the answer is your best friend. If you have a 4-letter space for "last word," it's highly unlikely to be EPILOGUE (8 letters), but AMEN (4 letters) is a perfect fit. Use this constraint to eliminate unlikely answers quickly.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'last word' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'last word' can refer to the literal final utterance (like 'AMEN' in a prayer), the concluding part of a literary or musical work ('EPILOGUE', 'FINALE'), or a figurative final statement or ultimatum ('ULTIMATUM'). The specific context of the clue is key.
How can I distinguish between literal and figurative 'last word' clues?
Pay close attention to the phrasing. Clues like "Prayer's end" or "Play's finale" lean literal. Clues such as "Final say" or "Non-negotiable demand" suggest a more figurative meaning. Cross-references with other filled-in letters will often confirm the correct interpretation.
Are there common crossword "traps" with this clue?
Yes, constructors love to trick you! One common trap is using a common phrase that contains "last word" but refers to something else entirely. Another is providing a highly specific context that nudges you away from the most common answers. Always consider all possibilities within the given letter count.