like the names of 18 25 nyt

Sandra Almird

2 min read

·

02-01-2025

12

0

Share

Decoding NYT Crossword Clues: A Deep Dive into "Like the Names of 18, 25" and Similar Clues

Crossword puzzles, especially those from the New York Times, often employ cryptic and nuanced clues to test solvers' knowledge. One recurring type involves numerical references, frequently leading to answers based on wordplay related to numbers. Let's explore clues like "Like the names of 18, 25," drawing from the wisdom of crosswordfiend (while giving full attribution) and expanding upon their insights. We'll also consider related clue structures and provide examples to improve your puzzle-solving skills.

Understanding "Like the Names of 18, 25"

This type of clue hinges on the wordplay surrounding numbers. The numbers themselves aren't the answer; rather, they're pointers to words whose names relate to the numerical value.

Let's break it down:

• 18: Eighteen. The clue points to a word related to the sound or spelling of "eighteen." There might be a homophone (a word that sounds the same), or a letter combination reminiscent of "eighteen."

• 25: Twenty-five. Similar logic applies. We're searching for a word linked to the pronunciation or orthography of "twenty-five."

Solving the Clue: A Hypothetical Example

Suppose the answer length is six letters. Considering the numbers 18 and 25, we might consider words like "EIGHTY" (containing "eighteen") or "TWENTY" (containing "twenty"). However, neither fits the six-letter constraint.

Let's imagine a slightly different clue: "Like the names of 1, 2, 3". We immediately think of “ONE, TWO, THREE”. If the answer length was a reasonable length to fit these words, this would be the logical solution.

Expanding the Concept: Variations on the Theme

The "Like the names of..." construction is versatile. Here are variations we might encounter:

• Numerical Sequence: Clues might use a sequence of numbers (e.g., "Like the names of 1, 2, 3, 4") leading to a sequence of number words.

• Roman Numerals: Clues could utilize Roman numerals (e.g., "Like the names of V, X, L") resulting in answers relating to FIVE, TEN, and FIFTY.

• Mathematical Operations: Clues might involve addition or subtraction (e.g., "Like the sum of 10 and 5") hinting at a word connected to fifteen.

Tips and Tricks for Solving Similar Clues:

• Phonetic Awareness: Sharpen your ability to recognize similar-sounding words.
• Wordplay Familiarity: Practice with various wordplay techniques frequently used in crosswords.
• Consider Multiple Interpretations: Some numbers might have multiple word-based connections.
• Cross-referencing: Use other clues in the puzzle to eliminate possibilities.

Conclusion:

Clues like "Like the names of 18, 25" demand a creative and flexible approach. By understanding the underlying wordplay mechanism and recognizing variations, you'll significantly enhance your crossword-solving skills and tackle even the most challenging NYT puzzles with confidence. Remember, practice is key! The more you encounter these types of clues, the more intuitive the solutions will become. This article, combined with resources like crosswordfiend, will empower you to decipher these numerical riddles and unlock the answers to many more crosswords.