neck and neck nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and are stumped by the clue "neck and neck," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and confidently.
Solutions for "neck and neck nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TIED: When competitors are exactly even in a score or race.
EVEN: Being equal in status, quantity, or value, often used in the context of competition.
5 Letters
CLOSE: Indicating a very narrow margin between competitors or results, almost equal.
8 Letters
DEADHEAT: A specific term for a race or contest in which two or more competitors finish at exactly the same time or with exactly the same result.
More About "neck and neck nyt crossword"
The phrase "neck and neck" is an idiom describing a situation where competitors in a race or contest are exactly even or very close to each other. Its origin dates back to horse racing, where horses running side-by-side might have their necks level. In the context of the New York Times crossword, clues like "neck and neck" often test your knowledge of common idioms and their most direct, concise synonyms.
Crossword constructors love using such idiomatic expressions because they can have multiple interpretations or concise answers depending on the letter count. For "neck and neck," common solutions revolve around the idea of equality, parity, or a tight finish. Always consider the surrounding letters you already have filled in to narrow down the possibilities, as several words can fit the definition.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: "Neck and neck" implies a very close contest. Think about all words that convey equality, closeness, or a tie, like 'tied,' 'even,' 'close,' or 'deadheat.'
- Consider Letter Count: The number of blank squares is your most critical hint. If you have a four-letter space, 'TIED' or 'EVEN' are strong candidates. If it's longer, 'DEADHEAT' might fit.
- Check Crosses: Always use intersecting words to confirm your answer. If a potential answer doesn't make sense with the letters it shares with other clues, it's likely incorrect.
- Look for Common Crosswordese: Some words appear frequently in crosswords due to their letter patterns and common meanings. While "neck and neck" isn't direct crosswordese, its answers often are.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'neck and neck' typically mean in crossword clues?
'Neck and neck' in crosswords usually refers to a situation where competitors are equally matched or are very close in a race or contest. Answers often relate to equality, parity, or a tight finish.
Are there common synonyms or phrases for 'neck and neck' used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms include 'TIED', 'EVEN', 'CLOSE', and 'DEADHEAT'. Sometimes, longer phrases might appear, describing a very close competition.
How can I improve my speed for New York Times crosswords?
To improve speed, focus on common crosswordese, learn prefixes/suffixes, practice regularly, and pay attention to clue types (e.g., puns, idioms, abbreviations). Often, the theme helps unlock trickier answers.