How do NYT crossword clues like 'leave this instant' work?

NYT crossword clues often use synonyms, idiomatic expressions, or sometimes even puns. 'Leave this instant' is a direct command, so answers will typically be imperative verbs or words that convey immediate departure, like 'SCRAM' or 'GO'.

What if my answer for 'leave this instant' doesn't fit the number of boxes?

Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers depending on the specific puzzle's theme, day of the week, and intersecting words. If your first guess doesn't fit the length, consider other synonyms provided on this page, or look at the letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues to narrow down the possibilities.

Are there common themes for 'leave this instant' in crosswords?

Clues about 'leaving' or 'going' are very common in crosswords. They often appear as short, punchy imperative verbs. Sometimes, longer answers might refer to phrases like 'MAKE A HASTY EXIT' or 'BEAT IT', but for simple clues like 'leave this instant', single-word, direct synonyms are most likely.

leave this instant nyt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Stuck on "leave this instant"? You've come to the right place! Answercrossword.com provides quick and accurate solutions for this popular NYT crossword clue, along with explanations to help you understand the context and improve your solving skills. Find the perfect fit for your puzzle below!

Solutions for "leave this instant nyt crossword clue" by Letter Count

2 Letters

GO: A fundamental verb meaning to move or proceed, often used as an imperative to leave immediately.

4 Letters

EXIT: To leave a place or situation, or a way out. A straightforward answer for quick departure.

5 Letters

SCRAM: An informal and often emphatic command to leave a place quickly. A very common crossword answer for this type of clue.

6 Letters

BEGONE: An archaic but still common crossword term, used as an imperative to go away or depart immediately.

7 Letters

VAMOOSE: An informal verb meaning to depart quickly, often used humorously or emphatically. Originating from Spanish 'vamos'.

More About "leave this instant nyt crossword clue"

The clue "leave this instant" is a classic example of an imperative clue often found in the New York Times crossword puzzle. These clues typically demand a direct, often short and punchy, response that conveys immediate action. Words like SCRAM, GO, and BEGONE fit this pattern perfectly, as they are all commands to depart without delay. Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they allow for a variety of answers of different lengths, providing flexibility in puzzle design.

Understanding the nuances of these imperative verbs can significantly speed up your solving time. For instance, 'SCRAM' implies a somewhat abrupt or even rude departure, while 'GO' is more neutral. 'BEGONE' has a more dramatic or formal, albeit archaic, flair. The key is to consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you might already have filled in from other clues. This iterative process helps narrow down the possibilities until you find the exact word the constructor had in mind.

Keep in mind that the NYT crossword can sometimes use slightly less common synonyms or idiomatic expressions, especially in tougher puzzles like those on Fridays or Saturdays. However, for a clue as direct as "leave this instant," the most straightforward and widely recognized imperative verbs are usually the correct solutions. Always consider how the word feels in common usage when tackling such clues.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Tone: Words like "instant" or "immediately" strongly suggest imperative verbs. Pay attention to whether the clue sounds formal, informal, or even archaic, as this can guide your answer choice (e.g., 'SCRAM' vs. 'BEGONE').
Check Letter Count First: Always count the available boxes before you commit to an answer. Many clues have multiple valid solutions, and the length is often the primary differentiator.
Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve a tricky clue in isolation. The letters you fill in from intersecting "down" or "across" clues are invaluable. They often reveal enough information to make an otherwise difficult clue obvious.
Think of Synonyms & Antonyms: For action verbs like "leave," brainstorm as many synonyms as possible. Sometimes, understanding the opposite of a word can also lead to the correct answer.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there multiple answers for one crossword clue?

Many crossword clues, especially common phrases or actions, can have several valid answers depending on the specific puzzle's construction, the day of the week (easier puzzles like Monday might use more common words), and the available letter count. Our goal is to provide all plausible solutions.

What does "NYT" mean in a crossword clue context?

"NYT" refers to The New York Times crossword puzzle. It's one of the most popular and respected daily crosswords, known for its clever cluing and diverse vocabulary. Many solvers specifically look for answers to NYT clues due to their consistent quality.

How can I get better at solving imperative clues like "leave this instant"?

Practice is key! Regularly solving crosswords, especially the NYT ones, will expose you to common clue patterns and answers. Pay attention to common synonyms for actions and commands, and try to build a mental dictionary of words that frequently appear as solutions to imperative clues. Reading the explanations provided on our site for various clues can also help you understand constructor logic.