What is considered a 'main course' in dining?

The main course, also known as the entrée, principal dish, or main meal, is the featured or primary dish in a meal consisting of several courses. It is typically the most substantial and significant part of the meal, following appetizers and preceding desserts.

Why might 'main course' appear in a NYT crossword puzzle?

The New York Times crossword often features clues related to dining, cuisine, and common food terms. 'Main course' is a staple culinary term with several synonyms and related concepts (like 'entrée', 'dinner', 'roast') that make for good crossword answers, testing a solver's vocabulary in this domain.

Are there different terms for 'main course' around the world?

Yes, while 'main course' is common in English-speaking countries, terms like 'plat principal' (French), 'Hauptgericht' (German), or 'piatto forte' (Italian) are used. Interestingly, 'entrée' in North America refers to the main course, but in Europe, it typically means an appetizer or starter.

main course nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "main course nyt crossword," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle completed.

Solutions for "main course nyt crossword" by Letter Count

5 Letters

ROAST: A dish of meat or vegetables cooked by roasting, commonly served as the main course, especially in traditional meals.

STEAK: A popular and substantial cut of meat, often beef, served as the primary dish in a meal, frequently grilled or pan-fried.

6 Letters

ENTREE: In North American English, this term refers to the main dish of a meal, especially in a multi-course dinner. Its French origin means 'entry,' but its culinary meaning evolved differently across continents.

DINNER: While broadly meaning the evening meal, 'dinner' can also specifically refer to the principal dish served during that meal, particularly if it's the largest and most significant component.

SUPPER: Similar to dinner, 'supper' can sometimes denote the main dish of a lighter, informal evening meal. Context in the crossword clue often helps distinguish it from other answers.

More About "main course nyt crossword"

The "main course" is the centerpiece of any multi-course meal, designed to be the most filling and often the most flavorful part of the dining experience. In culinary terms, it follows appetizers or soups and precedes desserts. Its role is to provide the primary nourishment and satisfaction for diners. For crossword solvers, clues related to the main course can be tricky due to the variety of synonyms and specific dishes that can fit the bill, ranging from a simple "STEAK" to a more formal "ENTREE."

In the context of the New York Times crossword, "main course" clues often leverage common terms from dining and gastronomy. Solvers should consider words that represent the primary food item served, the meal itself, or even the act of serving the main dish. The specific day of the week the puzzle appeared, or other intersecting clues, can often provide crucial hints to narrow down the correct answer among similar possibilities like "DINNER" or "SUPPER."

Understanding the nuances of culinary vocabulary is a significant asset when tackling such clues. The NYT crossword editors are known for their clever use of synonyms and misdirection, making it essential to think beyond the most obvious answer and consider broader interpretations or regional variations of terms.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider Culinary Synonyms: For food-related clues, think broadly about synonyms. "Main course" can be "entrée," "main dish," or even specific types of meals like "roast" or "dinner."
Check Letter Count First: Always count the available spaces in your grid. This is the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and narrow down your options instantly.
Analyze Surrounding Clues: Sometimes a neighboring word or theme in the puzzle can hint at the type of answer expected. If other clues are also food-related, it might confirm you're on the right track.
Think About Context and Usage: Is the clue asking for a formal term (like "ENTREE") or a more casual one ("DINNER")? The puzzle's overall tone can sometimes guide your choice.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between "main course" and "entrée"?

In North America, "entrée" is commonly used as a synonym for "main course," referring to the primary dish of a meal. However, in Europe and other parts of the world, "entrée" typically means an appetizer or starter, the course that comes before the main dish. This distinction can sometimes be a clever trick in crosswords.

How do I know if the crossword wants "DINNER" or "SUPPER" for a main course clue?

The distinction between "dinner" and "supper" often depends on regional usage, time of day, and formality. "Dinner" usually refers to the main meal of the day, often eaten in the evening and typically more substantial. "Supper" can be a lighter, more informal evening meal. In a crossword, context from other clues or the puzzle's theme is key to differentiating them.

Are specific dishes like "STEAK" or "ROAST" considered "main courses" in crosswords?

Yes, absolutely. Crossword clues for "main course" can often lead to answers that are specific types of dishes that typically serve as the primary item in a meal. If the letter count fits and the commonality aligns with NYT puzzle style, specific dishes are highly plausible answers.