A selected kind of clue ceaselessly showing within the New York Instances crossword puzzle includes pugilists’ goals. This clue kind typically makes use of misdirection, enjoying on phrases related to the game of boxing, resembling “opponent,” “ring,” “spar,” or “punch,” whereas the precise reply pertains to a unique that means of those phrases. As an illustration, “boxer’s goal” may clue “JAW,” referencing the anatomical goal, quite than a aggressive aim. Equally, “ring chief” might clue “MC,” referring to a grasp of ceremonies quite than a boxing promoter.
These clues contribute to the puzzle’s complexity and problem, demanding solvers suppose past the floor degree and take into account a number of interpretations of frequent phrases. The intelligent use of ambiguity provides a layer of mental stimulation and satisfaction upon profitable completion. This wordplay additionally displays a long-standing custom inside crossword puzzle building, relationship again to the earliest examples of the style, of using puns, homonyms, and double meanings to create intricate and interesting brainteasers.
