chew on this nyt crossword clue

Sandra Almird

2 min read

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02-01-2025

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The New York Times crossword puzzle, renowned for its challenging clues, often presents seemingly simple phrases that require deeper thought. One such clue, "Chew on this," has appeared in various NYT crosswords (specific puzzle dates and constructors aren't consistently archived publicly, hence no direct attribution to a specific CrosswordFiend user or puzzle). This seemingly straightforward phrase, however, hides a clever wordplay technique frequently used in cryptic crosswords. Let's delve into what makes this clue so intriguing and how to solve it.

The Clue: "Chew on this"

The surface reading of "Chew on this" suggests a simple instruction. However, the clue's brilliance lies in its double meaning. It acts as a meta-clue, directing the solver to consider the clue itself. It’s not asking for a synonym of chewing or a type of food. Instead, it's prompting you to analyze the clue's phrasing.

The Answer: FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The answer, "FOOD FOR THOUGHT," is a perfect example of a cryptic crossword's elegance. The clue plays on the literal act of chewing ("Chew on") and transforms it into a metaphorical consideration ("Food for thought"). This is achieved by a type of cryptic clue construction called a "cryptic definition." The clue contains a cryptic definition of the answer where the clue and answer are not literal synonyms.

Unpacking the Cryptic Definition

Cryptic definitions often combine a literal and figurative meaning. In this case:

• Literal: "Chew on" literally means to masticate, to process with the teeth.
• Figurative: "Chew on this" becomes a figurative instruction to contemplate, to mentally process the information presented – hence, "food for thought."

Similar Cryptic Clue Structures

Understanding this clue helps decipher similar cryptic clues. Look for clues that use commands or phrases that can be interpreted both literally and figuratively. For instance:

• "Work on this" might lead to a solution involving labor or effort.
• "Look into this" might suggest investigation or research.

Beyond the Crossword: Applications in Real Life

The ingenuity of "Chew on this" extends beyond the puzzle. This kind of wordplay mirrors real-life communication, where words often hold multiple layers of meaning. Consider how we might say "That's food for thought" when someone presents a complex idea that needs careful consideration. The crossword clue effectively captures this nuance.

Conclusion

The NYT crossword clue "Chew on this" is a perfect illustration of the puzzle's intellectual challenge. By understanding the underlying cryptic structure—in this case, a cryptic definition—we can appreciate the solver's journey from surface meaning to deeper understanding. This clue's elegant simplicity and rewarding solution provide a satisfying demonstration of how language can be both playful and profound. Remember to always consider the dual meanings of words and phrases when encountering cryptic clues in crosswords. This technique is not unique to the NYT but is a standard approach to cryptic clue creation seen across different crossword puzzle publications.