labor request wsj crossword

Sandra Almird

2 min read

·

02-01-2025

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The Wall Street Journal crossword, known for its challenging clues and sophisticated wordplay, often incorporates contemporary themes. One such theme, recently featured, likely involved the clue "Labor request" (or a similar phrasing). While I don't have access to a specific past WSJ puzzle to cite directly (as crossword clues vary daily), I can analyze this common crossword clue type and illustrate how such a clue might appear and be solved, drawing upon general crossword-solving principles. I will not be directly quoting CrosswordFiend as I do not have access to their specific database in real-time. However, the methods and principles I'll explain are relevant to solving similar clues in any crossword puzzle, including those found on CrosswordFiend.

Understanding the Clue:

The clue "Labor request" cleverly uses wordplay. It doesn't mean a formal request for a worker. Instead, it points towards a word or phrase associated with the effort or work involved in completing a task. This type of clue relies on understanding the double meaning of "labor."

Possible Answers and Explanations:

Several answers could fit, depending on the specific crossword's difficulty and word length. Here are a few possibilities and why they might work:

• TASK: This is a highly probable answer. "Labor" implies work, and a "task" is a piece of work to be done. This is a straightforward and common crossword answer.

• CHORE: Similar to "task," a "chore" represents a household or routine job that requires labor. The clue would work equally well if the length matched this word.

• JOB: This is another strong contender. A job inherently involves labor and is often the subject of requests or applications.

• ASSIGNMENT: This is a more formal option, suitable for a more challenging crossword. An "assignment" is a task or piece of work given to someone.

Solving Strategies:

To solve a clue like "Labor request," employ these common crossword-solving techniques:

1. Consider the Crossings: Look at the intersecting letters in the grid. These letters provide crucial constraints and hints. Even a single known letter can dramatically narrow down the possibilities.

2. Think of Synonyms: Consider synonyms for "labor" (e.g., toil, work, effort) and "request" (e.g., demand, need, order). This can generate associated words that fit the answer length.

3. Analyze the Wordplay: Clues often employ puns, double meanings, or other wordplay. Recognizing this is key to deciphering the true meaning.

4. Utilize Crossword Solver Tools (with caution!): While helpful for verifying answers, avoid over-reliance on solvers. Try to solve the clue independently first to enhance your crossword skills.

Adding Value: Real-World Application

Understanding clues like "Labor request" helps not just in solving crosswords, but also in improving vocabulary and analytical thinking. This skill translates to other areas, such as problem-solving in everyday life. Recognizing the multiple meanings of words and their context is a crucial skill across many fields.

Conclusion:

While I couldn't directly reference a specific "Labor request" clue from a past WSJ crossword or CrosswordFiend, this analysis provides a framework for understanding and tackling similar clues in future puzzles. Remember to practice, analyze, and use all available clues to sharpen your crossword-solving abilities and appreciate the artistry behind these word puzzles.