Negative Nancy words?

Unmasking the “Negative Nancy” in Your Crossword Puzzle

Crossword puzzles are a delightful exercise in mental agility, but they can also throw a curveball with their wordplay. Some clues are straightforward, while others require a little more detective work. Today, we’re tackling a common clue type that often trips up solvers: the “Negative Nancy” clue.

These clues cleverly mask their answer by hinting at the opposite of what’s actually being sought. For example, instead of directly asking for a synonym of “joy,” the clue might read “The opposite of despair.” This play on words requires you to think laterally and consider the negative aspect of the clue to arrive at the correct answer.

While they can be tricky, “Negative Nancy” clues are a fun challenge that add a layer of intrigue to the puzzle.

So how do you crack these cryptic clues?

Think about the word or phrase used in the clue. What is the direct opposite of that word or phrase? For instance, if the clue is “The opposite of strong,” the answer might be “weak.”

Don’t be afraid to use your knowledge of synonyms and antonyms. If you’re struggling to identify the negative aspect of the clue, look for words with opposite meanings in your vocabulary.

Keep in mind that the “Negative Nancy” approach can be applied to various types of clues. It could be used to describe a characteristic, a feeling, or even a physical object.

Here’s a practice clue to get your brain working:

Clue:

The opposite of good.

What do you think the answer might be?

Keep practicing, and you’ll soon be a “Negative Nancy” clue master!

Available Answers:

NONS.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 28 Jul 24, Sunday