knowable without experience nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "knowable without experience nyt crossword" by Letter Count
7 Letters
A PRIORI: Describes knowledge or justification that is independent of experience. It is knowable purely by reason, often used in philosophical contexts.
More About "knowable without experience nyt crossword"
The term "knowable without experience" points directly to a philosophical concept known as a priori knowledge. This type of knowledge is distinguished from a posteriori knowledge, which is derived from empirical observation or experience. A classic example of a priori knowledge includes truths of mathematics (e.g., 2 + 2 = 4) or logic (e.g., all bachelors are unmarried men), which can be determined through reason alone without needing to observe the world.
Philosophers like Immanuel Kant extensively explored a priori knowledge, considering how such truths could be universally valid and necessary. When you encounter this clue in a New York Times crossword, it's almost always a direct reference to this fundamental epistemological distinction. Recognizing such philosophical or Latin-derived terms is a key strategy for many NYT puzzles, which often test a wide range of general knowledge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "knowable without experience," pay close attention to precise phrasing. Words like "without experience," "by definition," or "purely rational" are strong indicators of philosophical or logical terms.
- Check Letter Counts Carefully: If you have crossing letters from other clues, use them to narrow down possibilities. For answers like "A PRIORI," counting the letters (including the space, if treated as part of a phrase or compound word in the grid, though typically crosswords omit spaces or use hyphens/no spaces) is crucial. In this case, "A PRIORI" is often treated as 8 letters.
- Consider Common Crossword Themes: NYT crosswords frequently feature academic, classical, or philosophical terms. Familiarize yourself with common Latin phrases or concepts that appear regularly in puzzles, as this can give you a significant advantage.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'a priori' mean in philosophy?
In philosophy, 'a priori' refers to knowledge or justification that is independent of experience. It's known purely by thought or reason, such as mathematical truths (e.g., 2+2=4) or logical deductions, contrasting with 'a posteriori' knowledge which is derived from experience.
Is 'knowable without experience' always 'a priori' in crosswords?
While 'A PRIORI' is the most common and direct answer for 'knowable without experience' in philosophical contexts, other clues might lead to related concepts like 'INNATE' or 'INTUITIVE'. However, for NYT puzzles, 'A PRIORI' is overwhelmingly the intended solution when the phrasing points to philosophical knowledge.
How do I identify philosophical terms in NYT crosswords?
Look for clues that use precise, often Latin-derived, language or terms associated with logic, epistemology, or metaphysics. Phrases like 'by definition,' 'purely rational,' 'self-evident,' or references to types of knowledge often signal a philosophical answer. Familiarity with common philosophical terms frequently used in puzzles (e.g., 'ESSENCE,' 'EXISTENCE,' 'DOGMA,' 'ETHOS') also helps.