cause of misery nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and are stuck on the clue "cause of misery," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, clear explanations, and helpful tips to get you unstuck and back on track to completing your puzzle.
Solutions for "cause of misery nyt crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WOE: This common crossword answer refers to great sorrow, distress, or a direct cause of suffering. It perfectly aligns with the concept of a 'cause of misery'.
4 Letters
BANE: A bane is something that causes great distress or annoyance, or something that causes ruin. It's a classic crossword answer for anything that is a 'cause of misery'.
6 Letters
PLAGUE: Beyond its literal meaning as a widespread disease, 'plague' can metaphorically describe anything that causes a great deal of trouble, suffering, or annoyance, making it a strong contender for 'cause of misery'.
7 Letters
SCOURGE: A scourge is a person or thing that causes great trouble or suffering. This word is often used to describe a severe affliction or a persistent cause of suffering, fitting the clue precisely.
More About "cause of misery nyt crossword"
The New York Times crossword is renowned for its clever and sometimes challenging clues. "Cause of misery" is a classic example of a clue that seeks a single, impactful word embodying a negative influence. These types of clues often test a solver's vocabulary for synonyms related to suffering, affliction, and destruction.
When you encounter a clue like this, the first thing to consider is the emotional weight and specific nuance of "misery." Is it a direct, tangible cause (like a pest or a disease), or a more abstract source of unhappiness (like a constant annoyance)? The NYT often plays on these subtleties, leading to answers like BANE, which implies a destructive force, or WOE, which speaks more to deep sorrow.
By understanding the potential depth of such clues and having a strong vocabulary of words associated with negative impacts, you can often narrow down the possibilities quickly. Always remember that the shortest answers can sometimes be the trickiest, as they require a precise fit for a broad concept.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Word Length: Always check the number of letters required. This is your most powerful filter. For "cause of misery," knowing it's a 4-letter word immediately points you towards BANE, while 3 letters suggests WOE.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuance: Crossword clues often use synonyms that have slightly different connotations. Think about the intensity or specific type of "misery" implied. Is it a general discomfort or a profound suffering?
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These crucial hints can help confirm a suspect answer or rule out others that don't fit the pattern.
- Think Beyond the Literal: Many NYT clues are not literal. "Cause of misery" could be a metaphorical entity or even a person. Be open to less obvious interpretations.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if an answer doesn't fit my New York Times crossword?
First, double-check the spelling of your existing letters and the clue itself. Sometimes, the NYT uses very specific or tricky wordplay. Consider alternative synonyms or homophones for the clue. Also, ensure you are looking at the correct day's puzzle, as clues can change daily.
Are there common themes for 'cause of misery' clues in crosswords?
Yes, 'cause of misery' often points to words like BANE, WOE, PLAGUE, SCOURGE, CURSE, or even terms related to specific afflictions. Clues may relate to mythical figures, historical events, or general concepts of suffering. Always consider the nuance of the clue and the puzzle's overall theme if applicable.
How can I improve my speed in solving NYT crosswords?
Consistent practice is key. Try to solve daily. Familiarize yourself with common crosswordese (words that appear often). Pay attention to clue types (e.g., puns, abbreviations, foreign words). Learning common prefixes/suffixes and regularly using a thesaurus can also significantly boost your speed and accuracy.