Introduction
If you’re an avid New York Times crossword puzzle solver, you’ve probably seen the clue ‘big deal’ pop up more than once. It’s an enigmatic clue that has left many people scratching their heads. In this article, we will explore the mystery behind this intriguing clue and shed some light on what it might mean. Whether you’re a seasoned solver looking to up your game or a newbie solver just starting out, this article is for you.
The Mystery Behind the New York Times Crossword Puzzle’s Big Deal Clue
Before diving into what ‘big deal’ might mean in the context of the New York Times crossword puzzle, it’s important to first understand its general definition. ‘Big deal’ is a phrase that is typically used to indicate that something is important or consequential. In the context of the puzzle, this clue can have a variety of meanings, and it’s up to the solver to decipher which one.
The significance of this topic cannot be overstated. With a daily readership of over two million people, the New York Times crossword puzzle is perhaps the most popular crossword puzzle in the world. The puzzle is a favorite among crossword enthusiasts and puzzlers alike, and the ‘big deal’ clue is one of its most iconic and talked-about features.
Our objective in this article is to help solvers tackle this enigmatic clue and solve the puzzle with ease.
5 Possible Meanings Behind ‘Big Deal’ in the New York Times Crossword Puzzle
So, what does ‘big deal’ mean in the context of the New York Times crossword puzzle? There are several possible meanings, each with its nuances and tricks:
- Something important or significant.
- A person who considers themselves to be very important.
- An expression of boredom or indifference.
- A sarcastic comment indicating that something is not important.
- A comment indicating that something is not impressive or noteworthy.
Historically, ‘big deal’ has been used in puzzles since the early days of crosswords. Here are some examples of ‘big deal’ in action:
1. [1962: It means a lot to rags: 2 wds.] Answer: BIG DEAL.
2. [1985: Nothing special] Answer: BIG DEAL.
3. [1998: Let me think…] Answer: WELL WELL BIG DEAL.
Expert opinions are divided on what ‘big deal’ might mean. Some argue that it can only mean something that is important or significant, while others contend that it can be used sarcastically or ironically. Ultimately, it’s up to the solver to read the clue in context and determine its meaning.
Decoding the Usage of ‘Big Deal’ in the New York Times’ Crossword Clues
So, how do we go about deciphering the meaning of ‘big deal’ in a crossword puzzle clue? There are several strategies that expert solvers use:
- Analyze the word play/artfulness of clues-
- Studying the clues’ structure-
- Take cues from other words in the puzzle-
Another strategy is to recruit the help of a puzzle-solving community. There are many online forums and groups dedicated to decoding crossword puzzle clues, and a quick Google search can yield some helpful results.
But sometimes even the most skilled solvers come across a clue that leaves them stumped. Here are some of the most challenging ‘big deal’ clues from past years:
1. [1994: Butler who’s the real “big deal” of Gone with the Wind] Answer: RHETT
2. [2008: “You make it sound like ___” (sarcastic remark)] Answer: SUCH A BIG DEAL
3. [2013: “Don’t get carried away”] Answer: ITS A MEAGER OR BIG DEAL DEPENDING ON HOW YOU LOOK AT IT
The Evolution of ‘Big Deal’ in the New York Times Crossword Puzzle
‘Big deal’ has been a fixture of the New York Times crossword puzzle for decades, but it hasn’t always been used in the same way. Here’s a look at its evolution:
The earliest appearance of ‘big deal’ in the puzzle was in 1962, when it was clued as “It means a lot to rags.” Since then, it has appeared in a variety of contexts and is often used as a playful or sarcastic way to indicate that something is not as significant as it might seem.
Over the years, ‘big deal’ has become one of the most iconic and recognizable clues in the puzzle. Its rise in popularity can be attributed to its versatility and the various ways it can be clued, making it an exciting and challenging feature for solvers.
5 Fun Facts About the ‘Big Deal’ Clue in the New York Times Crossword Puzzle
If you’re a die-hard New York Times crossword puzzle fan, you might be interested in these fun trivia tidbits:
- The first time ‘big deal’ appeared in the puzzle was in 1962.
- Before the internet era, ‘big deal’ was clued more often as a reference to the ’50s and ’60s TV show The $64,000 Question.
- One of the most controversial ‘big deal’ clues (“Rhymer’s name? Big deal”) appeared on September 11, 2001 – the same day as the tragic 9/11 attacks.
- The record for the most ‘big deal’ clues in a single puzzle is nine, which was set by the constructor Matt Gaffney in 2005.
- William Safire, the former New York Times columnist and writer on language, once called ‘big deal’ his favorite clue in the puzzle.
While these fun facts might seem like trivial knowledge, they can be useful in the puzzle-solving process. Understanding the origins and context of clues is an important part of deciphering them.
What Solving the ‘Big Deal’ Clue in the New York Times Crossword Puzzle Says About Your Puzzle-Solving Skills
If you’re able to solve the ‘big deal’ clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle, it’s a sign that your puzzle-solving skills are top-notch. But even the most skilled solvers will encounter challenging clues from time to time. Here are some tips for improving your puzzle-solving skills:
- Practice, practice, practice – the more puzzles you solve, the better you’ll get
- Don’t be afraid to take a break – sometimes stepping away from a puzzle for a bit can help you see the solution more clearly
- Use online resources – there are plenty of websites and forums dedicated to crossword puzzle solving, and using them can help you learn new strategies and tips for solving puzzles
A Deep Dive into the Most Controversial ‘Big Deal’ Clue in the New York Times Crossword Puzzle History
Of all the ‘big deal’ clues that have appeared in the New York Times crossword puzzle, perhaps the most controversial was “Rhymer’s name? Big deal.” The clue appeared on September 11, 2001 – the same day as the tragic terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
Many people found the clue to be insensitive and in poor taste given the gravity of the day’s events. The New York Times later apologized for the clue and promised to exercise more sensitivity and discretion in the future.
This controversial clue is a reminder that even something as seemingly innocuous as a crossword puzzle can have a profound impact on people, especially in times of crisis. It’s important for puzzlers and constructors alike to be mindful and respectful of the world around them.
Conclusion
Deciphering the meaning of the ‘big deal’ clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle is a challenge that has stumped many solvers over the years. But armed with the strategies and tips outlined in this article, you should be well on your way to solving the puzzle with ease.
Remember, practice makes perfect – the more puzzles you solve, the better you’ll get. And don’t forget to enjoy the journey – the satisfaction of solving a challenging puzzle is one of life’s great joys.