loan shark nyt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "loan shark nyt crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
USURER: A person who lends money at illegally high or excessive rates of interest, a direct synonym for a loan shark.
7 Letters
SHYLOCK: A famous character from Shakespeare's play 'The Merchant of Venice,' known as a Jewish moneylender who demands a pound of flesh as collateral, making him a historical and literary representation of a ruthless lender.
8 Letters
PREDATOR: While broader, this term often describes someone who exploits others, fitting the behavior of a loan shark engaged in predatory lending practices.
More About "loan shark nyt crossword clue"
The term "loan shark" refers to an individual or group that offers loans at extremely high-interest rates, often operating outside of legal financial regulations. These entities frequently target vulnerable individuals who are unable to secure credit through traditional banking channels, leading to a cycle of debt that is difficult to escape.
In the context of crosswords, clues relating to loan sharks often draw upon the illicit nature of their operations, their historical portrayal in literature, or the negative impact they have on their victims. Common answers like USURER or SHYLOCK reflect the deep-rooted cultural and historical understanding of these unscrupulous lenders.
Solving clues like "loan shark" requires not just a broad vocabulary but also an understanding of common idioms, historical figures, and the nuances of language that crossword constructors often employ. By familiarizing yourself with these aspects, you can more easily decipher even the trickiest clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: Pay attention to any specific words that might hint at the type of answer needed. Is it a general term, a literary reference, or a descriptive phrase? For "loan shark," words like "greedy," "illegal," or "lender" are key.
- Consider Letter Count Carefully: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If an answer fits perfectly but doesn't quite match the number of letters, it's likely incorrect. Always double-check this.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: Crosswords often use synonyms, antonyms, or related concepts. For a "loan shark," think of words that describe their actions (e.g., extort, fleece) or their role (e.g., moneylender, exploiter).
- Use Online Resources Wisely: When stuck, use reputable crossword help sites like Answercrossword.com, but try to understand the reasoning behind the answer to improve your future solving skills.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a loan shark?
A loan shark is an individual or an organization that offers loans at extremely high interest rates, often with illegal or predatory collection methods. They typically operate outside of legal financial regulations, preying on vulnerable individuals.
Why are loan sharks associated with crossword puzzles?
Loan shark is a common phrase that can have various synonyms or related terms, making it a versatile clue. Crossword setters often use terms like 'usurer,' 'shylock,' or 'extortionist' to lead solvers to this concept, testing their vocabulary and knowledge of literature and legal terms.
How can I identify a loan shark in a crossword clue?
Look for words indicating high interest, illegal activity, or exploitation, such as 'greedy lender,' 'exorbitant interest,' 'moneylender of note,' or literary references like 'Merchant of Venice character.' The number of letters in the expected answer is a crucial hint.