one just squeaking by nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your go-to resource for solving challenging crossword clues. If you're pondering 'one just squeaking by nyt crossword', you've landed on the perfect page. Below, you'll find thoroughly researched answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle efficiently and enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "one just squeaking by nyt crossword" by Letter Count
9 Letters
SCRAPEDBY: Managed to succeed or survive with great difficulty, often just barely meeting a requirement.
5 Letters
EDGED: Narrowly defeated or surpassed an opponent; moved gradually or with difficulty.
More About "one just squeaking by nyt crossword"
The phrase "squeaking by" is a common idiom meaning to succeed or survive with the narrowest of margins, often by sheer luck or minimal effort. In crosswords, clues like "one just squeaking by" often look for a single verb or a phrase that captures this sense of barely making it. It implies a situation where the outcome was uncertain, and success was achieved with great difficulty.
When the New York Times crossword uses such a clue, it's typically playing on this idiomatic meaning. The challenge lies in finding a word or concise phrase that fits the letter count and precisely conveys the nuance of minimal success or a close call. Popular answers in crosswords for this type of clue often include terms related to managing, surviving, or narrowly winning.
Understanding these common idioms and their crossword equivalents is a key part of mastering puzzles. "Squeaking by" might refer to someone just passing a test, winning a race by a hair, or making ends meet financially. The context of the surrounding clues can sometimes help clarify the specific angle the constructor is pursuing.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Interpret Idioms: Clues like "one just squeaking by" often rely on common idioms. Try to think of synonyms or related phrases that express the same meaning, even if they're not literal definitions.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: Many crossword answers, especially in the NYT, are phrasal verbs (e.g., SCRAPED BY, GOT BY). These can be tricky as they often act as single units.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. They are your strongest allies in narrowing down possibilities for challenging entries.
- Think About Context: While "squeaking by" has a general meaning, a specific clue might hint at a financial, academic, or competitive context. Let the puzzle's theme or other clues guide your thinking.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'squeaking by' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'squeaking by' typically refers to barely succeeding, just managing to pass, or winning by a very narrow margin. The answer often involves synonyms or idiomatic phrases reflecting minimal success or survival.
How can I improve my speed in solving NYT crosswords?
To improve your speed, focus on common crosswordese, learn recurring clue patterns (e.g., abbreviations, Roman numerals, foreign words), and practice regularly. Start with easier days like Monday and gradually move to harder puzzles.
What should I do if I get stuck on a crossword clue?
If you're stuck, try moving to other parts of the puzzle and returning later. Look for intersecting letters from solved clues to provide hints. Consider different interpretations of the clue, common crossword tricks, or consult a crossword dictionary for related terms.