storm on the horizon nyt crossword

Sandra Almird

2 min read

·

02-01-2025

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The New York Times crossword puzzle, known for its challenging clues and clever wordplay, often uses evocative imagery to hint at the answer. A recent clue, "Storm on the horizon," exemplifies this style. While the answer itself might seem straightforward to experienced solvers, understanding why it's the answer offers a deeper appreciation for the puzzle's construction. Let's explore this, drawing inspiration from the expertise shared on websites like CrosswordFiend (though we'll be creating unique analysis and examples here).

The Clue: Storm on the horizon

This clue, seemingly simple, evokes a sense of impending trouble or change. It paints a picture, relying on the solver's understanding of common idioms and metaphors. The "storm" suggests difficulty or conflict, while "on the horizon" implies something upcoming but not yet imminent.

The Answer (and Why It Works): LOWPRESSURE

The answer is LOWPRESSURE. This works beautifully because a low-pressure system is a meteorological phenomenon often associated with storms. The clue cleverly uses figurative language to represent a literal meteorological concept.

Why this is a Great Clue:

• Figurative Language: The clue masterfully utilizes metaphor. It doesn't state the answer directly; it describes the effect of a low-pressure system. This makes the clue more challenging and rewarding to solve.
• Ambiguity (and its Resolution): Initially, "storm on the horizon" might evoke various possibilities – political upheaval, financial crisis, personal drama. However, the crossword's structure and word length guide the solver towards a more specific, meteorological interpretation.
• Multiple Layers of Meaning: The clue works on multiple levels. It's a simple weather description, yet it carries a broader metaphorical weight, hinting at impending difficulties in a more general sense. This is characteristic of high-quality crossword clues.

Expanding on the Theme: Weather in Crossword Clues

Crossword puzzles frequently utilize weather-related themes, not only for their descriptive power but also for the versatility of weather-related vocabulary. Consider these examples:

• "Sunny disposition": Could clue CHEERFUL or OPTIMISTIC. This uses weather to describe personality.
• "Sudden downpour": Might clue DELUGE or GUSH. This focuses on the intensity of the weather event.
• "Clear skies ahead": Could clue BRIGHTFUTURE or SMOOTHSAILING. This uses the weather to symbolize positive future prospects.

Tips for Solving Similar Clues:

• Think metaphorically: Don't always take clues literally. Look for underlying meanings and associations.
• Consider word length: The number of letters significantly narrows down the possibilities.
• Use crosswords as a learning tool: Pay attention to the answers to expand your vocabulary and understanding of idioms.

Conclusion:

The clue "Storm on the horizon" is a prime example of the artistry involved in creating a challenging yet satisfying crossword clue. Its use of figurative language, its subtle ambiguity, and its elegant solution make it a memorable entry in the world of NYT crosswords. By understanding the mechanics behind such clues, solvers can enhance their skills and appreciate the intellectual stimulation these puzzles offer. Remember to consult resources like CrosswordFiend for additional solving tips and strategies, but don't be afraid to engage your own creative thinking as you decipher these linguistic puzzles.