Understanding the Clue and Answer
The clue “Like a temporary committee” is a classic example of how crosswords blend common phrases with precise vocabulary. The answer, ADHOC, is a Latin term meaning “for this purpose,” often used to describe something formed temporarily or improvised for a specific task. In this context, it perfectly captures the idea of a committee created to address a short-term need.
Why was this clue challenging?
-
Linguistic Nuance: “Ad hoc” isn’t an everyday term for everyone. It requires familiarity with Latin-derived phrases often used in formal or organizational contexts.
-
Crossword Conventions: The clue follows a common NYT pattern where adjectives or descriptive phrases point to concise, often hyphenated or foreign-language answers.
-
Red Herrings: Solvers might have considered alternatives like “short-term” or “interim,” but “ad hoc” is the specific term crossword designers favor for such clues.
This clue appeared in the NYT Mini Crossword, a streamlined version of the classic puzzle designed for quick solving. However, even Mini clues can pack a punch, and “like a temporary committee” is a perfect example of how a few words can demand careful thought.
Background: The NYT Crossword Legacy
The New York Times crossword has been a cultural icon since its debut in 1942. Under the guidance of legendary editor Will Shortz, it has evolved to include modern themes, puns, and wordplay while maintaining its intellectual rigor. The puzzle follows a structured difficulty curve:
-
Monday to Wednesday: Themed puzzles with increasing complexity.
-
Thursday: Often features twists like rebuses or meta-puzzles.
-
Friday and Saturday: Themeless grids with the toughest clues.
-
Sunday: Larger grids with expansive themes.
The Mini Crossword, introduced in 2014, offers a 5×5 grid and is designed for speed, but its clues still reflect the Times’ signature style—clever, concise, and occasionally deceptive.
General Tactics for Solving Crossword Puzzles
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned solver, these strategies can help you tackle NYT-style clues like “like a temporary committee”:
-
Start with What You Know: Fill in answers to clues you’re confident about first. This provides letters that can help solve intersecting words.
-
Think Laterally: For adjective-based clues like this one, consider synonyms and phrases beyond the obvious. “Temporary” might suggest “interim,” but “ad hoc” is a crossword staple.
-
Learn Crossword Lexicon: Puzzles often reuse certain words or phrases. “Ad hoc,” “era,” “aria,” and “oleo” are common examples. Familiarity with these can speed up solving.
-
Use Word Length and Patterns: The answer’s letter count (here, 5 letters) narrows possibilities. For “like a temporary committee,” options like “short” (5 letters) might seem plausible, but “ad hoc” fits both the clue and crossword conventions.
-
Leverage Cross-Referencing: Use letters from solved clues to inform others. If intersecting words share letters with the unknown answer, trial and error can help.
-
Emulate the Editor’s Mindset: NYT clues often play with double meanings or cultural references. For “temporary committee,” think about formal organizational terms rather than casual synonyms.
Why “Ad Hoc” Matters Beyond the Grid
The inclusion of clues like “like a temporary committee” highlights how crosswords serve as a mirror to language and culture. “Ad hoc” is widely used in business, law, and academia to describe impromptu solutions or groups. By featuring such terms, the NYT crossword not only challenges solvers but also reinforces linguistic precision and cultural literacy.
Moreover, puzzles like these reflect broader trends in word games. The success of the NYT’s Games section—including Wordle, Connections, and Strands—shows a growing appetite for mental challenges that blend fun with learning.
Conclusion
The clue “like a temporary committee” and its answer ADHOC exemplify the elegance and complexity of NYT crosswords. By combining linguistic nuance with clever design, these puzzles offer more than just entertainment—they sharpen our minds and expand our vocabularies. Whether you’re solving the Mini or the full-scale puzzle, remember that every clue is a chance to learn something new. So the next time you encounter a tricky phrase, think like a crossword pro: break it down, explore its layers, and enjoy the “aha!” moment when it all clicks.
