obstacle to change nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "obstacle to change" from a New York Times crossword, you've come to the right place. We provide the most likely answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and confidently.
Solutions for "obstacle to change nyt crossword" by Letter Count
7 Letters
INERTIA: The tendency of an object to resist any change in its state of motion; metaphorically, a strong resistance to new ideas or progress. This is a very common answer for this type of clue.
10 Letters
RESISTANCE: The act of opposing or withstanding something. In the context of change, this word directly signifies an opposing force or reluctance to adapt, making it a fitting answer for the clue.
More About "obstacle to change nyt crossword"
The clue "obstacle to change" is a classic example of a thematic crossword clue that often appears in the New York Times. It refers to something that impedes progress, evolution, or a shift from the current state. While straightforward on the surface, the answer can vary depending on the specific wordplay or context within the puzzle, which is why having multiple possibilities like INERTIA or RESISTANCE is crucial.
In crosswords, especially the NYT, clues are crafted to be precise. "Obstacle to change" might lead solvers to consider terms from physics (like inertia, referring to a body's resistance to motion change), psychology (resistance to new ideas), or sociology (societal resistance to reform). Understanding these broader contexts can often help you identify the correct answer, especially when other crossing letters are in place.
When you encounter such a clue, consider not just direct synonyms, but also metaphorical interpretations or scientific terms that fit the concept. The elegance of NYT crosswords lies in their ability to draw from a wide array of knowledge domains, making familiar concepts appear in new, challenging ways.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Count: Always check the number of letters required. This is your first and most important filter for potential answers.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many crossword clues, including "obstacle to change," can have literal, figurative, or even scientific meanings. Think broadly about how the words in the clue could be interpreted.
- Look for Common Crosswordese: Certain words appear frequently in crosswords due to their letter patterns or versatility. "Inertia" is a prime example of a word that often fits scientific or abstract clues about resistance.
- Check Surrounding Clues: Don't get stuck on one clue. Solving intersecting words can provide crucial letters that narrow down the possibilities for your tricky clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'NYT' mean in a crossword clue?
NYT stands for 'New York Times'. It indicates that the clue is from a crossword puzzle published by The New York Times, which is known for its high-quality, often challenging puzzles with specific conventions and common answer patterns.
Why are crossword clues often so tricky?
Crossword clues are designed to be challenging. They often employ wordplay, puns, double meanings, abbreviations, and specific grammatical indicators. The trickiness lies in deciphering the constructor's intent and finding the precise word that fits both the definition and the letter count.
How can I improve my crossword solving speed?
Improving speed comes with practice. Familiarize yourself with common crosswordese (frequently appearing words), learn common abbreviations, pay attention to clue types (e.g., 'abbr.' for abbreviations, 'poet.' for poetic terms), and try to solve puzzles daily. Recognizing patterns and common themes also helps.