hold back as the tide nyt crossword

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22-11-2024

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Hold Back As The Tide NYT Crossword Clue: A Deep Dive

The New York Times Crossword is known for its challenging clues, and "hold back as the tide" is a prime example. This clue often appears in puzzles, prompting solvers to consider various meanings of "hold back" and "tide." Let's explore the answer and the wordplay involved.

Understanding the Clue

The clue "hold back as the tide" plays on the double meaning of "hold back." It doesn't refer to restraining something physically. Instead, it signifies resisting or preventing something from happening. The "tide," in this context, represents a powerful force or overwhelming trend.

Therefore, the answer isn't about literally holding back water. It's about the action of resisting a strong influence.

The Answer: STEM

The answer to the clue "hold back as the tide" is STEM. This works because a stem can be seen as holding back the flow of a plant's fluids, much like a dam might hold back a river's flow. The word "stem" subtly echoes the idea of resisting the tide's movement.

Why This Clue Works

This clue's brilliance lies in its clever use of figurative language. It forces the solver to think beyond the literal meaning of "hold back" and "tide," encouraging lateral thinking and a deeper understanding of the words' multiple meanings. This makes it an engaging and satisfying clue to solve.

Similar Clues and Approaches

Crossword puzzles often use similar wordplay, making understanding the underlying logic crucial. Here are some approaches to tackle similar clues:

• Consider multiple definitions: Always check the dictionary for various meanings of the words in the clue.
• Look for figurative language: Many clues rely on metaphors or similes. Understanding these is key to finding the answer.
• Think about the context: The overall theme or other clues in the puzzle can provide helpful hints.

Solving crossword clues like "hold back as the tide" requires practice and a willingness to think creatively. By understanding the wordplay involved, you can improve your crossword-solving skills and tackle even the most challenging clues with confidence.