spoils nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and got stuck on the clue "spoils," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "spoils nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LOOT: Refers to stolen goods, often taken during a conflict or robbery. This meaning aligns with 'spoils of war'.
MARS: To damage or disfigure something, ruining its perfection or appearance.
5 Letters
RUINS: To completely destroy or severely damage something, making it unusable or worthless.
7 Letters
PLUNDER: To steal goods from a place or person, typically using force and in a time of war or civil disorder.
More About "spoils nyt crossword"
The word "spoils" is a versatile term in the English language, which makes it a favorite for crossword constructors. It can refer to two distinct concepts: the act of damaging or impairing something, or the acquisition of goods, often by illicit means or as a result of victory. In the context of the New York Times crossword, clues using "spoils" often play on this duality, requiring solvers to consider both possibilities.
When "spoils" implies damage, answers like RUINS or MARS are common. These words signify a deterioration or destruction. On the other hand, when it refers to gains, particularly those obtained through force or as a reward for a contest, answers such as LOOT or PLUNDER become relevant. Understanding this dual nature is crucial for successfully navigating "spoils" clues.
The specific context provided by the clue itself, the letter count, and surrounding letters in the grid are your best friends in pinpointing the correct answer. The NYT typically uses common synonyms, so familiarizing yourself with both sets of meanings will give you a significant advantage.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: For clues like "spoils" that have multiple distinct meanings (e.g., damage vs. plunder), always explore both interpretations.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most powerful tool. It immediately narrows down the possibilities and eliminates many incorrect answers.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already-solved crossing words to confirm your answer. If a word like "RUINS" fits horizontally and its letters work with vertical clues, you're likely correct.
- Think of NYT Common Clues: The New York Times crossword often reuses certain words or types of clues. If you solve regularly, you'll start to recognize patterns and common synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common meanings of 'spoils' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'spoils' often refers to either something that is damaged or ruined (e.g., RUINS, MARS) or to goods taken by force or theft (e.g., LOOT, BOOTY, PLUNDER).
How can I distinguish between the different meanings of 'spoils' in a crossword clue?
Context is key! Look at other clues in the puzzle or any theme indicators. If the puzzle has a crime theme, 'LOOT' or 'PLUNDER' might be likely. If it's about deterioration, 'RUINS' or 'MARS' would fit better. The number of letters also helps narrow it down.
Are there synonyms for 'spoils' that often appear in NYT crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms that frequently appear as answers for 'spoils' or similar clues include RUINS, LOOT, MARS, BOOTY, PLUNDER, and WRECK. Always consider various letter counts.