What is a self-referential crossword clue?

A self-referential clue is one that refers to itself, its function, or its place within the crossword puzzle. For example, 'what this clue is in nyt mini crossword' directly points to the word 'CLUE' itself.

Are self-referential clues common in the NYT Mini Crossword?

Yes, self-referential clues, often short and witty, are quite common in the NYT Mini Crossword. They add a layer of playful meta-awareness to the puzzle, often requiring solvers to think about the puzzle's mechanics.

How do I approach meta-clues in crosswords?

When encountering meta-clues, consider the nature of the clue itself: Is it a word? A phrase? A number? Does it describe itself or an element of the puzzle? These clues often have simple, direct answers that reveal themselves once you recognize their self-referential nature.

what this clue is in nyt mini crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for the solution to "what this clue is in nyt mini crossword" from your NYT Mini or any other puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you back to solving.

Solutions for "what this clue is in nyt mini crossword" by Letter Count

4 Letters

CLUE: This is the classic self-referential answer, as the clue itself directly points to what it is.

More About "what this clue is in nyt mini crossword"

The clue "what this clue is in nyt mini crossword" is a prime example of a 'meta' crossword clue. These types of clues are clever and often designed to make you think about the puzzle's components rather than a typical definition. In the context of the New York Times Mini Crossword, which is known for its brevity and occasional witty plays on words, such self-referential clues are a delightful feature.

Solving clues like this requires a slightly different approach. Instead of a synonym or a factual piece of information, the answer is found by looking at the clue's role within the crossword grid. It asks you to identify itself, and what it is, fundamentally, is a CLUE. This kind of wordplay is part of what makes crossword puzzles, especially the NYT Mini, so engaging and accessible for daily solvers.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Look for Meta-Clues: When a clue seems to refer to itself or the puzzle's structure, consider answers like CLUE, WORD, or ANSWER. These are common tricks.
Context is Key: Always consider the source of the crossword. The NYT Mini often has concise, clever, and sometimes punny clues that differ from larger, more complex puzzles.
Check Cross-References: If stuck on a clue, try solving intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other answers can often reveal the solution to a tricky clue like this one.
Don't Overthink It: Sometimes the most obvious answer is the correct one, especially for self-referential clues in the Mini.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'meta' mean in crosswords?

In crosswords, 'meta' refers to something that is self-referential or aware of itself as a puzzle element. A 'meta-clue' directly references its own nature or function within the crossword grid, such as asking 'what this clue is'.

Is 'CLUE' always the answer to this type of clue?

While 'CLUE' is overwhelmingly the most common answer for a self-referential clue like 'what this clue is', variations can exist. However, in the context of the NYT Mini, 'CLUE' is almost always the intended solution due to its brevity and directness.

How often does the NYT Mini use self-referential clues?

The NYT Mini Crossword frequently uses clever wordplay, including self-referential clues, puns, and common phrases. While not every day, you can expect to encounter them often enough to recognize the pattern.