deceive especially to avoid responsibility for something nyt crossword

Sandra Almird

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02-01-2025

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The New York Times crossword puzzle, a beloved pastime for many, often presents us with challenging clues that require more than just a simple definition. One such clue, potentially phrased as "Deceive, especially to avoid responsibility for something," points to the word STONEWALL. This article will delve deeper into the meaning of "stonewall," exploring its etymology, usage, and real-world applications, drawing inspiration from and giving credit to the insights found within the community at CrosswordFiend. (Note: Specific CrosswordFiend questions and answers cannot be directly quoted without explicit permission from the site's authors. This article instead draws inspiration from the common understanding of "stonewall" within crossword puzzle contexts.)

What does "Stonewall" mean?

At its core, "stonewall" means to obstruct or delay someone or something. The image conjured is that of an impenetrable stone wall, resisting any attempt to break through. In the context of avoiding responsibility, "stonewalling" involves deliberately evading questions, providing misleading information, or simply refusing to cooperate to prevent accountability.

Where does the term originate?

The term derives from the actions of the participants in the 1969 Stonewall riots, a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. The police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, leading to violent clashes and protests. The resistance shown by those involved, refusing to back down in the face of authority, gave the term its potent connotation of determined obstruction.

Examples of Stonewalling:

Stonewalling isn't limited to historical events. It manifests in everyday situations:

• A politician deflecting questions about a scandal: Instead of directly addressing allegations, they might offer vague responses, change the subject, or attack the questioner's motives.
• A child refusing to admit to a wrongdoing: They might deny involvement, blame a sibling, or simply remain silent.
• A coworker avoiding a difficult conversation: They might consistently miss meetings, ignore emails, or feign busyness to avoid addressing a performance issue or interpersonal conflict.

Stonewalling vs. other forms of deception:

While stonewalling is a form of deception, it's distinct from other types of dishonesty. It's less about actively lying and more about strategically blocking access to the truth. Other forms of deception might include:

• Lying: Directly stating something untrue.
• Omission: Withholding crucial information.
• Misdirection: Intentionally steering attention away from the truth.

Why is understanding "stonewalling" important?

Recognizing stonewalling is crucial for navigating various aspects of life:

• Workplace: Identifying stonewalling behavior in colleagues or superiors allows for proactive strategies to address workplace issues effectively.
• Personal relationships: Understanding when someone is stonewalling can help identify underlying conflicts and initiate open communication.
• Legal and investigative contexts: Recognizing stonewalling as an obstructive tactic is vital for investigations and legal proceedings.

In conclusion, "stonewall," as revealed through its use in crossword clues and broader understanding, is a powerful word describing a specific form of deception. By understanding its nuances and recognizing its manifestations in various contexts, we can better navigate challenges and foster clearer communication. The complexity of the word, as explored through both puzzle-solving and real-world applications, highlights the richness of the English language and the need for nuanced understanding of communication strategies.