weigh down nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "weigh down nyt crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "weigh down nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SINK: To cause something to go downward, often due to weight, fitting for a 'weigh down' clue.
6 Letters
BURDEN: To load heavily; to cause someone trouble or worry, often seen as 'weighing down' a person or entity.
7 Letters
OPPRESS: To weigh heavily on the mind or spirit; to cause distress or anxiety, which is a form of 'weighing down'.
8 Letters
ENCUMBER: To weigh down or burden, hindering movement or action, a direct synonym for 'weigh down'.
More About "weigh down nyt crossword"
The clue "weigh down" is a classic example of a versatile crossword prompt, often appearing in the New York Times crossword due to its multiple interpretations. It can refer to a literal physical act, like adding weight to something to make it heavier or sink. For instance, ballast might "weigh down" a ship. However, it frequently appears in a more figurative sense, referring to an emotional or mental burden.
In crosswords, understanding the nuanced meanings of such clues is key. "Weigh down" can imply oppression, hindrance, or the act of making someone feel heavy with worries or responsibilities. This duality allows setters to use the same clue to point to words like SINK (physical) or BURDEN and OPPRESS (figurative), depending on the context of the puzzle and the length of the required answer. Always consider both the literal and metaphorical interpretations.
When encountering this clue, think about the broader theme of the puzzle if known, and how other solved entries might influence the meaning. It's a clue that tests your vocabulary's depth, particularly your grasp of synonyms that convey various forms of "heaviness" – both tangible and abstract.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, especially verbs like "weigh down," have several meanings. Always think about both the literal and figurative interpretations. Is it about physical weight, emotional burden, or hindering progress?
- Check Intersecting Letters: The most crucial tip! Use the letters you've already filled in from crossing words to narrow down the possibilities. This is often the quickest way to confirm the correct answer when multiple solutions fit the clue's length.
- Analyze the Puzzle's Tone: Some crosswords lean more towards literal clues, while others are known for their clever wordplay or more abstract meanings. The overall tone of the NYT crossword puzzle can sometimes offer a subtle hint.
- Think Synonyms: Beyond direct synonyms, consider words that describe the *effect* of weighing down. Does it cause something to sink, to be burdened, or to be oppressed? Expanding your synonym search can uncover the right answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues like 'weigh down' have multiple possible answers?
Many words in English have multiple meanings or synonyms, allowing a clue like 'weigh down' to refer to physical weight, emotional burden, or even hindrance. Crossword setters leverage this ambiguity to increase challenge, and the correct answer often depends on the intersecting letters from other clues.
How can I determine the correct answer for 'weigh down' when there are several options?
The best strategy is to look at the letter count required and any intersecting letters from other clues you've already solved. Sometimes, the clue's specific phrasing or the puzzle's theme can also hint at the intended meaning (e.g., a physical 'weigh down' versus an emotional one).
Are 'weigh down' clues common in the NYT crossword?
'Weigh down' and similar clues that imply burden, pressure, or hindrance are quite common in the NYT crossword, appearing across various difficulty levels. They are versatile clues that can lead to a range of answers, from literal to figurative.