sunset in the west nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for the solution to the New York Times crossword clue "sunset in the west", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find potential answers, explanations, and helpful tips to conquer this and future puzzles.
Solutions for "sunset in the west nyt crossword" by Letter Count
8 Letters
OCCIDENT: A term referring to the western parts of the world, synonymous with the direction of sunset. This answer highlights the 'in the west' part of the clue, common in NYT crosswords.
7 Letters
SUNDOWN: A direct synonym for sunset, which is the daily disappearance of the sun below the horizon in the west.
WESTERN: Relating to or situated in the west. While 'sunset in the west' is a bit redundant, 'WESTERN' could be the intended answer, focusing on the direction emphasized by the clue.
More About "sunset in the west nyt crossword"
The clue "sunset in the west" for a New York Times crossword puzzle is a classic example of how setters can use seemingly redundant phrasing to lead solvers to a specific type of answer. While it's self-evident that sunsets occur in the west, the inclusion of "in the west" isn't merely descriptive; it's a critical pointer. It directs you away from generic synonyms for "sunset" and towards words that specifically emphasize the directional aspect or a concept inherently tied to the western direction.
For instance, an answer like OCCIDENT isn't just about the time of day; it's about the geographic or cultural concept of the west. Similarly, 'WESTERN' directly addresses the directional emphasis. NYT crosswords are known for their cleverness and precision, often rewarding solvers who delve deeper into the nuances of a clue rather than just its surface meaning. This particular clue challenges you to think beyond the obvious and consider how the specific phrasing guides your word choice.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Redundancy: When a clue seems to state the obvious (like "sunset in the west"), pay close attention. The "obvious" part is often the key to a less obvious, more specific answer that plays on the specific wording.
- Consider NYT Style: The New York Times crossword often features sophisticated wordplay, puns, and a broad range of vocabulary. Be prepared for answers that are less common synonyms or that require a deeper understanding of the clue's subtle hints.
- Break Down the Clue: Try to separate the clue into its core components. "Sunset" and "in the west" are two parts. While sunset implies the west, the explicit mention suggests the answer might hinge on the "west" aspect.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck on this clue, look at the intersecting words you've already filled in. The letters you have can greatly narrow down the possibilities and confirm or deny potential answers for "sunset in the west."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do crossword clues sometimes seem redundant, like 'sunset in the west'?
Crossword setters often use seemingly redundant phrases to misdirect solvers or to point to a specific, perhaps lesser-known, synonym or a more abstract concept related to the redundant part. In this case, 'in the west' emphasizes the direction, leading to answers like OCCIDENT or WESTERN, rather than just any general synonym for 'sunset'.
What's the best strategy for 'NYT' crossword clues?
NYT crossword clues often involve clever wordplay, puns, and can reference current events. A good strategy is to consider multiple meanings of words, look for common crosswordese terms, and stay aware of recent news or cultural references. Sometimes, the 'NYT' tag specifically implies a common NYT-style answer or a particular type of wordplay or misdirection.
How can I improve my speed in solving crosswords?
Practice is absolutely key! Additionally, try to learn common crossword fill, frequently used abbreviations, and foreign words. Begin by trying to solve puzzles without hints, but don't hesitate to use resources like this site to learn new words and clue patterns. Building up a mental lexicon of common answers and tricky clue types will significantly increase your solving speed over time.