prodded nyt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "prodded nyt crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations and letter counts, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "prodded nyt crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
NUDGED: Gently pushed or stimulated to move or act.
GOADED: Provoked or incited to action, often persistently.
7 Letters
SPURRED: Urged on or encouraged, often to a greater effort or speed.
INCITED: Encouraged or stirred up (violent or unlawful behavior).
8 Letters
PROMPTED: Encouraged or caused someone to say or do something.
More About "prodded nyt crossword clue"
"Prodded" is a common verb in crosswords, often appearing as a past tense clue. It generally refers to the act of poking, urging, or stimulating someone or something to action. The nuances can range from a gentle nudge to a more forceful incitement. When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle and any intersecting letters you might already have.
Crossword constructors love words like "prodded" because they offer a rich array of synonyms that vary in length and subtle meaning. This allows them to fit different spaces in the grid while maintaining thematic consistency. Paying attention to these subtle differences can often lead you to the exact word the constructor had in mind.
The "NYT" designation indicates that this clue appeared in a New York Times crossword puzzle. NYT puzzles are known for their cleverness and sometimes their challenging vocabulary, so expect answers that are well-chosen and precise, sometimes drawing on less common synonyms of 'prodded'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the required number of letters. This is your primary filter for potential answers. For "prodded," knowing if it's a 6-letter or 8-letter word will immediately narrow down your options significantly.
- Consider Synonyms and Context: Think broadly about synonyms for "prodded." Is it a physical act (like NUDGED) or a psychological one (like PROMPTED)? The surrounding theme or other clues in the puzzle might offer hints.
- Look at Intersecting Words: If you have any letters filled in from crossing words, use them as powerful clues. Even one correct letter can eliminate many incorrect answers and guide you to the right solution.
- Think About Tense: "Prodded" is past tense. Ensure your answer (e.g., NUDGED, GOADED, SPURRED) is also in the past tense to match the clue's grammatical form.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "prodded" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "prodded" typically refers to being poked, urged, or encouraged. Common synonyms include NUDGED, GOADED, SPURRED, or PROMPTED. The specific answer will depend on the required letter count.
How can I identify the correct answer for "prodded" based on letter count?
Pay close attention to the number of letters indicated in the clue, as this is the most crucial hint. Also, consider the surrounding letters if you have any filled in, and whether the answer needs to fit a specific tense or nuance (e.g., past tense like "prodded" often points to past tense verbs).
Are there common traps or synonyms for "prodded" to watch out for?
Yes, "prodded" can be tricky because it has several close synonyms that fit different letter counts. Look out for words like INCITED, EGGEDON, or STIRRED, besides the more direct NUDGED or GOADED. The 'NYT' designation sometimes implies a slightly more sophisticated vocabulary, so consider less obvious synonyms as well.