throw in the towel nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "throw in the towel"? Look no further! This page provides all potential solutions for this New York Times crossword clue, complete with explanations to help you complete your puzzle and understand the context.
Solutions for "throw in the towel nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
QUIT: A direct and common answer meaning to stop or abandon an effort.
6 Letters
GIVEUP: A common phrasal verb meaning to cease trying or resisting, perfectly matching the idiom's essence.
9 Letters
SURRENDER: To yield control, possession, or a right, often implying a defeat or capitulation.
11 Letters
ADMITDEFEAT: To acknowledge that one has been beaten in a contest, struggle, or argument, a literal interpretation of throwing in the towel.
More About "throw in the towel nyt crossword"
"Throw in the towel" is a well-known idiom originating from boxing, where a fighter's corner throws a towel into the ring to signal that they are giving up the fight. In a broader sense, it means to quit, surrender, or give up on an endeavor. Crossword constructors love these types of idiomatic clues because they can lead to a variety of synonyms and related concepts of different lengths, challenging solvers to think flexibly.
When you encounter such a clue in the New York Times crossword, consider the core meaning of the phrase rather than its literal interpretation. Think about actions or states of being that signify cessation or capitulation. The NYT often uses classic, widely understood idioms, making this clue a prime example of a common crossword trope.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Type: Idioms like "throw in the towel" require you to think about the phrase's underlying meaning, not just its literal words. Look for synonyms of the core concept (e.g., "give up," "quit").
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters provided. This is your primary guide for narrowing down possible answers, especially for clues with multiple synonyms.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have already filled in some letters from intersecting words, use them to your advantage. These letters can quickly confirm or rule out potential answers for "throw in the towel."
- Think About Nuance: Sometimes, the specific publication (like the NYT) might prefer a certain nuance. For instance, "SURRENDER" might imply a more formal giving up than "QUIT."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "throw in the towel" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "throw in the towel" is an idiom clue that translates to synonyms like quit, surrender, or give up. Crossword constructors often use such phrases to prompt answers that capture the essence of the idiom's meaning.
How do I find the right answer for an idiom clue like this?
To solve idiom clues, think about the core meaning of the phrase. Brainstorm synonyms for 'giving up' or 'quitting'. Also, consider the specific publication (like the NYT) which might favor certain word patterns or common solutions. Always cross-reference with any letters you've already filled in.
Is "throw in the towel" commonly used in NYT crosswords?
Idioms are a staple in New York Times crosswords due to their versatility in cluing various word lengths. "Throw in the towel" is a classic phrase, making its appearance quite common as a clue for answers like QUIT, GIVEUP, or SURRENDER.