Understanding the NYT Mini Crossword Clue: "CIRCLED LETTERS VALUE – TEN"
The crossword puzzle you shared from Wednesday is the NYT Mini Crossword, which is a fun and free version of the New York Times’ Crossword. It features a variety of clues, including obscure ones like "CIRCLED LETTERS VALUE – TEN." I can offer a closer look at this clue and its significance in the puzzle.
The Clue: "CIRCLED LETTERS VALUE – TEN"
In crossword terminology, circled letters refer to tiles that are part of a specific Scrabble word. When a word includes these tiles, it spells differently in Scrabble and Scrabble Words. The word "DOLLAR," for example, is worth 10 points when played with includes circled or double-lettered tiles, which combine to add up to 10 points.
In the NYT Mini Crossword, the **clues provided areiacs, meaning they have tricky, pun-based meanings. The clue "CIRCLED LETTERS VALUE – TEN" is likely referring to this concept of Scrabble point values. However, the clue was particularly frustrating for some solvers due to its unique twist and eye-catching lack of obvious pronunciation.
Some solvers might have struggled with the clue because they were not used often. For example, the user mentioned that they initially missed it and had to crack it by checking the solutions, which themselves were "spoilers." The clue’s description before the break-down had unusual hints and was quite cryptic, with room for interpretation.
The綦ance of the Clue
The initial reaction of some solvers to the clue may have been initially cryptic, with its use of obscure terms and the absence of obvious pronunciation. Some solvers, however, were surprised when the clue was revealed, leading to a brief panic of discovering the answer. Others, more " studious," spent time trying to decipher it, considering alternative interpretations.
One of the most notable clues was the word "邮局" (mail office), which the user recalled from a previous crossword they played. This word is worth 10 points in Scrabble combine with its includes CIRCLED LETTERS because the "L" tile’s double lettered appearance adds 3 points, while the "O" tile adds 2 points. The word "邮局" can also be associated with "mail office," which fits the NYT Mini crossword’s unique context.
Another bold clue was "_shared airplane seat," replaced by the word "FLIP Jail." This word is also worth 10 points in Scrabble combine with "CIRCLED LETTERS." The connection between "CIRCLED LETTERS," "FLIP," and "Jhl.adj" makes it a bit of a brain teaser.
Scrabble Tiles and combines
Some solvers used them to form the word "DOLLAR," which is worth 10 points when played in Scrabble combine with includes (CIRCLED LETTERS). Another example was "邮局," which is "mail office" for the DOT5 clue. The users also mentioned the word "DOLLARty," which can be part of a long phrase, such as "DOLLARtiness," which they might have considered.
Amid the frustration, some solvers chose a different approach by focusing on the meaning of the clue rather than reading through every character. Others, more methodical, broke it down step by step: first, recognizing that "CIRCLED LETTERS" relates to Scrabble point values, and that "VALUE" was consistent across the grid.
This brief encounter with a树脂 word in the NYT Mini crossword display the complexity and depth of crossword clues. "CIRCLED LETTERS VALUE – TEN" is not just a regular crossword clue, as its point value is tied to specific Scrabble Tiles.
A Recipe for Success
Despite the initial lack of clarity and the frustration they suffered at first, some solvers were able to crack the clue. They remembered their past OSFARZ-80x, which had the word "邮局." Others noted that the crossword required a good examine of Scrabble rules and some research, which they were confident they didn’t waste.
This words game is now a favorite and highlights the intricate world of crossword clues.
—McGregor
