devious nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and got stuck on "devious," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, clear explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "devious nyt crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SLY: A common synonym for devious, often used in puzzles for its concise meaning of cunning or tricky.
4 Letters
WILY: Suggests cunning and trickery, frequently appearing in crosswords for 'devious' due to its precise fit and common usage.
6 Letters
CRAFTY: Denotes skill in deception, a direct synonym often seen in NYT puzzles when 'devious' is clued.
TRICKY: Implies something difficult to handle or a person who is deceptive, another strong candidate for 'devious' in crosswords.
More About "devious nyt crossword"
The clue "devious" is a staple in the New York Times crossword, beloved by constructors for its rich set of synonyms that vary in length and nuance. When you encounter "devious" in a puzzle, it's often a signal to think about words related to cunning, trickery, or indirectness. The NYT puzzle, known for its clever wordplay, might use 'devious' to point towards a character trait, a convoluted path, or a misleading statement.
Understanding the subtle differences between synonyms like 'sly,' 'wily,' 'crafty,' and 'tricky' can be key. While all relate to being devious, 'sly' often suggests stealth and secrecy, 'wily' implies intelligent and resourceful deception, 'crafty' highlights skill in trickery, and 'tricky' can also refer to something complicated or difficult, beyond just personal deception. Context within the puzzle, especially intersecting letters, is your best guide.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "devious," consider if it's describing a person, a plan, or an action. This can narrow down the potential synonyms.
- Check Letter Count First: Always look at the number of boxes. This is the most immediate filter for possible answers.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have a few letters filled in from crossing words, use them to confirm or rule out potential answers for "devious."
- Think of Common Crossword Tropes: Many common words are frequently used as answers for certain types of clues. Words like SLY, WILY, and CRAFTY are puzzle mainstays.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is "devious" a common crossword clue?
The word 'devious' is popular in crosswords because it has several concise synonyms (like sly, wily, artful, cunning) that fit various letter counts. Its meaning allows for clever wordplay and misdirection, a hallmark of good crossword clues.
What are common letter lengths for "devious" answers?
Common letter lengths for 'devious' answers include 3 letters (e.g., SLY), 4 letters (e.g., WILY), 6 letters (e.g., CRAFTY, TRICKY), and sometimes longer answers depending on the specific nuance intended by the constructor.
How can I distinguish between similar "devious" synonyms?
To distinguish between similar synonyms, pay close attention to the clue's nuance. 'Sly' often implies cunning or stealth, 'wily' suggests clever deception for advantage, 'crafty' denotes skill in trickery, and 'tricky' can mean both deceptive and difficult. Context from intersecting words is also crucial.