what's the matter with them nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "what's the matter with them" from your NYT crossword, you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to solving.
Solutions for "what's the matter with them nyt crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ISSUE: A point or matter of discussion, often implying a problem or difficulty. This word perfectly captures the essence of "what's the matter" in a concise way, frequently appearing in crosswords for similar clues.
6 Letters
PLIGHT: A dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation. When asking "what's the matter with them," one is often inquiring about their predicament or plight.
7 Letters
AILMENT: A physical or mental disorder, often used to describe what's 'the matter' with someone or a group, particularly in the context of health or well-being.
More About "what's the matter with them nyt crossword"
Crossword clues like "what's the matter with them" are excellent examples of how common phrases and idiomatic expressions are integrated into puzzles, especially those from the New York Times. These clues don't always ask for a direct synonym but rather for a word that encapsulates the meaning or concept behind the phrase. In this case, "what's the matter" points to a problem, concern, or an unfortunate state.
The challenge often lies in deciphering the exact nuance the constructor is aiming for and matching it with a word of a specific length. Recognizing that such clues typically seek a noun representing a difficulty or an issue is key. Solvers should consider words that describe a troublesome situation or a condition that causes distress, which helps narrow down the possibilities significantly.
Understanding these common clue patterns can vastly improve your solving speed and accuracy. The NYT crossword is known for its clever wordplay, and mastering how they twist everyday language into solvable clues is a skill that develops with practice and exposure to various clue types.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For idiomatic clues like "what's the matter with them," consider the core concept (e.g., problem, issue, state of being) rather than literal definitions of each word.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the letter count of your potential answer to the number of squares available. This is the most crucial filter for any crossword clue.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Certain words appear frequently as answers for similar concepts. For "problem" or "issue," think of words like AIL, PLIGHT, SNAFU, QUANDARY, etc., which often resurface.
- Look for Thematic Connections: Sometimes, a clue's answer might be part of a larger theme in the puzzle. If you've solved other themed clues, they might provide a hint for this one.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do NYT crossword clues differ from other puzzles?
NYT crossword clues are often praised for their wit, cleverness, and use of wordplay, puns, and broader general knowledge. They can sometimes be more challenging due to their idiomatic clues and the inclusion of contemporary references, but they are consistently fair.
What is the best way to approach common phrase clues?
When encountering common phrase clues, try to rephrase the idiom in a single word or a few descriptive words. For "what's the matter with them," you might think "their problem" or "their state of being," which then leads to single-word answers like ISSUE or AILMENT.
Should I use online resources for crossword help?
Yes, using online resources like Answercrossword.com is a great way to learn and improve. They can help you when stuck, introduce you to new vocabulary, and familiarize you with common crossword patterns and constructor habits. It's a valuable learning tool for solvers of all levels.