mars a star nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "mars a star nyt crossword" clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all possible solutions, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "mars a star nyt crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
RUINS: To damage or destroy something completely. In this context, it implies damaging a star's reputation or career.
DENTS: To make a slight hollow in a surface; figuratively, to cause a small, usually non-critical, blemish on a reputation.
6 Letters
SPOILS: To diminish or destroy the value or quality of something. This is a direct synonym for 'mars' when applied to a star's image.
STAINS: To mark or discolor, leaving a lasting blemish. Figuratively, to blemish a reputation with dishonor.
8 Letters
TARNSHES: To dull or destroy the luster of something; to make reputation less estimable. A strong fit for damaging a star's image.
More About "mars a star nyt crossword"
The clue "mars a star" is a classic example of crossword wordplay, relying on the less common, verb meaning of "mars" rather than its noun form as a planet. To "mars" something means to spoil, damage, or disfigure it. When combined with "a star," the clue is almost certainly referring to a celebrity or public figure whose reputation or career is being damaged or negatively affected.
Understanding this linguistic nuance is key to solving many New York Times crossword clues. The NYT often uses everyday words in their less common definitions, or plays on homophones and synonyms. In this case, 'star' also has a dual meaning (celestial body vs. celebrity), but the verb 'mars' almost always directs solvers towards the 'celebrity' interpretation.
When encountering such clues, it's beneficial to think of synonyms for the verb 'mars' that relate to reputation, such as 'ruin,' 'spoil,' 'dent,' or 'tarnish.' Then, consider which of these fits the letter count of the blank spaces in your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Verb Meanings: Always consider all possible meanings of a word, especially verbs, as crosswords frequently use less common or archaic definitions. For "mars," remember its meaning as "to spoil."
- Contextual Clues: The "NYT crossword" part of the clue isn't just filler; it indicates a certain style and difficulty level. NYT puzzles are known for their clever wordplay and broad vocabulary.
- Cross-Reference: Don't get stuck on one clue. Use intersecting words from other clues to fill in letters. Even one letter can often unlock a difficult word.
- Consider Figurative Language: Many clues, like "mars a star," use figurative language. Think beyond the literal interpretation and consider metaphors or idiomatic expressions.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "mars a star" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "mars" often refers to the verb meaning "to spoil or damage," rather than the planet. So, "mars a star" typically implies damaging a celebrity's reputation, career, or public image. The "star" here is usually a famous person, not a celestial body.
Are there common synonyms for "mars" used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for "mars" that frequently appear as crossword answers include RUINS, SPOILS, DENTS, TAINT, BLEMISH, and TARNISH. These words all convey the idea of damaging or diminishing something.
How do I identify the correct answer length for a crossword clue like this?
The most effective way to identify the correct answer length is by looking at the blank squares provided in your crossword puzzle. Each blank square represents a letter. Additionally, check intersecting clues; if an intersecting answer is certain, it will reveal letters for your "mars a star" answer, helping you narrow down possibilities.