In the world of crossword puzzles, few clues are as classic and versatile as Make a getaway. This clue has appeared numerous times in publications like The New York Times (NYT), and while it might seem straightforward at first glance, its possible answers can vary widely depending on the puzzle’s theme, the number of letters needed, and the day of the week it appears. Crossword fans know that the phrase make a getaway NYT often leads to a moment of contemplation, as it could hint at anything from a stealthy escape to a casual vacation plan. Understanding the clue’s many layers helps improve solving skills and adds depth to puzzle enjoyment.
Understanding the Clue: ‘Make a Getaway’
When encountering the clue make a getaway in a New York Times crossword puzzle, the solver is expected to interpret the phrase in its broadest sense. The key is to consider the clue’s tone, context, and possible double meanings. It could refer to a literal escape, such as from a crime scene or danger, or it might lean toward a more casual idea like taking a vacation.
Common Answers in NYT Crosswords
Depending on the day (and therefore difficulty) of the puzzle, the clue make a getaway could correspond to several answers. Here are some of the most common:
- FLEE A short, direct synonym often used in Monday or Tuesday puzzles.
- ESCAPE A more specific option, slightly longer and frequently seen in midweek puzzles.
- RUN A three-letter answer that works well when space is limited and the clue suggests quick motion.
- LAM Slang for escaping quickly, often appearing in Friday or Saturday puzzles due to its informal tone.
- SKEDADDLE A humorous or casual take, usually reserved for themed or tricky puzzles.
- TAKEOFF Suggests not just fleeing but doing so in a vehicle, plane, or high-speed getaway.
The diversity of possible answers means that even experienced solvers have to rely on crossing letters and intuition to land on the correct choice.
Clue Context: Literal vs Figurative Getaways
One of the key skills in solving NYT crossword clues is understanding whether a clue is being used literally or figuratively. Make a getaway is a prime example of this ambiguity.
Literal Interpretations
When taken literally, the clue often refers to running away or escaping from something dangerous or illicit. This is where words like flee, escape, and lam fit in. These are direct synonyms and are common in puzzles that don’t feature a twist or play on words.
Figurative Interpretations
In a more figurative sense, make a getaway might suggest taking a vacation, planning a short trip, or retreating for rest and relaxation. Answers in this category could include:
- RETREAT A relaxing or peaceful form of escape.
- VACAY A slangy, informal answer for vacation.
- TRIP A general term that fits the idea of a planned getaway.
These versions often appear in themed puzzles or those with a more playful tone, particularly on Thursdays or Sundays.
The Role of Puzzle Difficulty
NYT crossword puzzles get progressively harder throughout the week, and the clue make a getaway reflects this increase in complexity. While earlier puzzles might offer clear-cut answers like run or flee, later puzzles are more likely to introduce unexpected answers or use the clue in a way that plays with solver expectations.
Examples by Day of the Week
- Monday: Clue: Make a getaway â Answer: FLEE
- Wednesday: Clue: Make a getaway â Answer: ESCAPE
- Friday: Clue: Make a getaway â Answer: LAM
- Sunday (themed): Clue: Make a getaway? â Answer: TRIP (part of a pun-based theme)
This change in tone and approach adds richness to the experience of solving and keeps solvers on their toes.
Using Crossings to Solve Ambiguous Clues
Because make a getaway can yield multiple correct answers depending on interpretation, most solvers rely heavily on intersecting answers known as crossings to determine the right fit. For example, if the clue allows a four-letter word and you already have an L as the second letter, flee becomes a strong candidate. Conversely, if the last letter is M, then lam may be the correct choice.
Solving Tips
- Always consider both literal and figurative meanings.
- Use the number of letters in the grid to narrow options.
- Rely on confirmed crossing letters to eliminate unlikely answers.
- Watch for theme indicators that might twist the clue’s usual meaning.
These strategies help avoid dead ends and support better accuracy, especially in late-week or weekend puzzles.
NYT Crossword Clue Trends and Language Use
The New York Times crossword is known for being culturally current, meaning that language trends can influence the answers. In recent years, slang and informal expressions have appeared more frequently. This affects clues like make a getaway, which may once have had only serious or literal answers but now might include playful, pop culture-driven options.
Modern Clue Variations
- Make a getaway, in slang â SKEDADDLE
- Vacation departure â TAKEOFF
- Quick escape â DASH
Staying familiar with evolving language and expressions can improve solving skills over time. The more you solve, the more you’ll begin to recognize recurring patterns and trends in how these clues are constructed.
Common Pairings and Related Clues
Clues like make a getaway are often part of broader thematic clusters that appear in the same puzzle or across different puzzles. These may include clues and answers related to:
- Crime or heists (e.g., Getaway driver, Bank job exit)
- Travel and leisure (e.g., Booked a flight, Weekend trip)
- Action and movement (e.g., Bolt, Zoom, Split)
Recognizing these associations can offer additional context when solving and help you anticipate possible answers for future clues.
The clue make a getaway NYT represents the kind of clever, flexible language that makes crossword solving such an enjoyable challenge. Whether the answer is a direct escape like flee or a more relaxed notion like trip, the clue captures a wide range of meanings within just a few words. Mastering clues like this requires attention to context, letter count, and puzzle tone. With time and practice, solvers can learn to spot the subtleties, break down the possibilities, and fill in the grid with growing confidence. Each appearance of make a getaway offers a fresh opportunity to sharpen those skills and enjoy the rich world of the New York Times crossword.