mercenary nyt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "mercenary" from the New York Times crossword? You've come to the right place! Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, complete with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "mercenary nyt crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
GREEDY: Characterized by an excessive desire for wealth or possessions, a key motive for a mercenary.
7 Letters
GRASPER: Someone who is greedy or self-interested, often in a financial sense.
SELLOUT: One who betrays principles for personal gain, fitting the negative connotation of mercenary.
8 Letters
HIREDGUN: A common term for someone paid to fight or kill, directly synonymous with mercenary.
More About "mercenary nyt crossword clue"
The term "mercenary" often appears in crosswords, especially those from the New York Times, due to its rich historical and ethical connotations. It describes someone who takes part in an armed conflict for personal profit rather than as a member of a national army or for ideological reasons. This concept has been prevalent throughout history, from ancient Greek and Roman times to the modern era, with groups like the Condottieri of medieval Italy or private military contractors today.
In a crossword context, clues for "mercenary" can range from direct synonyms to more abstract characteristics, focusing on the individual's motivation. The NYT crosswords are known for their clever and sometimes subtle clueing, so understanding the various facets of "mercenary" – its financial drive, lack of loyalty, or professional nature – is crucial for solving. Words that imply a transactional relationship with conflict or a primary focus on personal gain are often strong indicators.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "mercenary," consider if the answer should be a direct synonym (like HIREDGUN), a characteristic (like GREEDY), or a descriptor of their actions (like SELLOUT).
- Check Cross-References: Always use intersecting words to confirm your answer. Even if an answer seems right, if it doesn't fit with the crossing letters, it's likely incorrect.
- Consider NYT-Specific Clues: The New York Times often uses puns, wordplay, and sometimes contemporary references. Be open to less literal interpretations, especially for shorter answers.
- Letter Count is King: The most important constraint is always the number of letters. Double-check your chosen answer's length against the puzzle's requirement.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'NYT' stand for in a crossword clue?
'NYT' in a crossword clue refers to the New York Times, indicating that the clue or answer is specifically from a New York Times crossword puzzle. This can be important as different publications sometimes have unique styles or recurring themes.
How can I identify a 'mercenary' type clue in crosswords?
Clues for 'mercenary' often point to someone motivated purely by money, lacking loyalty, or willing to do unethical things for profit. Look for keywords like 'hired gun,' 'sellout,' 'greedy,' 'professional fighter,' or terms related to self-interest over principles.
Are there other common synonyms for 'mercenary' used in crosswords?
Yes, beyond HIREDGUN, GRASPER, SELLOUT, and GREEDY, you might encounter answers like SOLDIEROFFORTUNE, PROFITEER, or terms implying a lack of integrity for financial gain. Context and letter count are key to finding the precise fit.