letter of the law nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "letter of the law nyt crossword", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and understand the context.
Solutions for "letter of the law nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TEXT: Refers to the exact wording or written content of a statute or rule, the 'literal' part of the law.
5 Letters
RIGOR: The quality of being extremely thorough and careful, or severe and unyielding, often applied to the strict enforcement of rules.
6 Letters
LETTER: The most direct and common answer, signifying the precise wording or literal meaning of a law, in contrast to its spirit or intent.
More About "letter of the law nyt crossword"
The phrase "letter of the law" is an idiom that highlights a crucial distinction in legal and ethical interpretation. It refers to the literal, strict reading of a rule or statute, focusing solely on the words themselves, rather than the underlying purpose, intent, or broader moral considerations. This is often contrasted with the "spirit of the law," which emphasizes the overall aim and principles behind a regulation.
In legal contexts, adhering strictly to the letter of the law can sometimes lead to outcomes that seem unfair or contrary to common sense, especially when the literal interpretation doesn't align with the original legislative intent or when unforeseen circumstances arise. Conversely, ignoring the letter of the law entirely can lead to arbitrary decisions or a breakdown of legal predictability.
For crossword puzzles, this clue often points to answers that embody the concept of literalness or the written word. Understanding this idiom helps solvers anticipate answers that might be short and direct, focusing on the core meaning of 'written rule' or 'strict adherence'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Idioms: Many crossword clues are idiomatic expressions. If a clue sounds like a common saying, think about words that represent its core concept. For "letter of the law," consider words related to text, rules, or strictness.
- Check Word Lengths: Always pay attention to the requested letter count. It's the most powerful hint you have. If you have several possible answers, the length will help narrow it down instantly.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: For shorter answers, the crossing letters from other clues are invaluable. Even one or two confirmed letters can make an otherwise tricky short answer obvious.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: Don't just look for direct synonyms. Sometimes the answer is a related concept or a descriptor of the clue. For "letter of the law," 'rigor' describes the application, even if it's not the 'letter' itself.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the phrase 'letter of the law' mean?
The phrase 'letter of the law' refers to the literal interpretation or strict wording of a law, rule, or agreement, without considering its underlying spirit, intent, or broader implications. It emphasizes adherence to the exact text.
Why is 'letter of the law' a common crossword clue?
It's a common crossword clue because it's a well-known idiom with a specific, concise meaning that can be answered by short, related words like LETTER or TEXT. It also allows for clues that play on the 'spirit vs. letter' dichotomy, making it versatile for constructors.
Are there other similar legal phrases often found in crosswords?
Yes, crosswords often feature Latin legal terms (e.g., 'HABEASCORPUS', 'IPSOFACTO'), or common legal concepts and idioms. Clues related to 'justice,' 'court,' 'jury,' or specific legal principles are frequent.