a group of them is called a crash nyt

2 min read 22-11-2024

A Group of Them is Called a Crash: Unveiling the Secrets of the NYTimes Crossword Clue

The New York Times crossword puzzle, a daily ritual for millions, often throws curveballs in the form of cryptic clues. One such clue that has stumped many solvers is: "A group of them is called a crash." What, exactly, forms a crash? The answer, surprisingly, isn't a car accident, but a collection of rhinos. Let's delve into why this unusual collective noun has found its way into the world of crossword puzzles.

Understanding Collective Nouns

Before we explore the "crash" of rhinos, let's establish what a collective noun is. A collective noun is a word that names a group of things. We commonly use words like "flock" (for birds), "herd" (for cattle), or "school" (for fish). However, some collective nouns are far less common, adding an extra layer of challenge to puzzles like the NYT crossword.

Why Rhinos and Crashes?

The term "crash" for a group of rhinos isn't widely known. It's a somewhat obscure collective noun, likely stemming from the powerful, forceful image associated with a group of these massive animals. Imagine a large group of rhinos charging—it's certainly a "crashing" scene. The origin isn't definitively documented, but it's believed to evoke the sound and impact of a group of rhinos moving together.

Other Collective Nouns for Animals

The English language boasts a rich array of collective nouns, many more whimsical than others. Here are a few examples to demonstrate the fascinating variety:

A business of ferrets: This suggests a bustling, perhaps slightly chaotic, group.
A sleuth of bears: Evokes the idea of bears tracking prey together.
A murder of crows: A dramatic, perhaps slightly ominous, collective noun.
A parliament of owls: Suggesting wisdom and deliberation.

These examples highlight the creativity and often evocative nature of collective nouns. They add a colorful layer to the English language, and often a surprising element to crossword puzzles.

How to Approach Cryptic Clues Like This

Clues like "A group of them is called a crash" require a different approach than straightforward crossword clues. Here's how to tackle them:

Consider Multiple Meanings: The word "crash" can have multiple meanings. Don't immediately assume the most obvious one.
Think Outside the Box: Be prepared for unexpected answers. The NYT crossword is known for its creativity.
Look for Wordplay: Cryptic clues often incorporate puns or wordplay.
Use Cross-References: The intersecting letters from other clues can help you deduce the answer.

Conclusion: The Delight of the Unexpected

The beauty of the NYT crossword lies in its ability to challenge and surprise solvers. Clues like "A group of them is called a crash" force us to expand our vocabulary and knowledge of the English language. While it might be frustrating at first, solving such clues adds a layer of satisfaction and a deeper appreciation for the nuances of words. So, the next time you encounter a similarly obscure clue, remember the crashing rhinos and embrace the unexpected. After all, learning something new is part of the fun!