Total - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Total," is a great example of how a simple, everyday word can lead to a slightly tricky crossword answer. While "Total" seems straightforward, the answer requires us to think about its function as a verb and to recognize a common crossword construction.

Clue Analysis

The clue "Total" can function as a noun, an adjective, or a verb.

• Noun: The total is $50.
• Adjective: The total cost is high.
• Verb: The charges total $50.

The answer, SUMTO, is a verb phrase meaning "to add up to" or "to amount to." This directly corresponds to the verb sense of "Total." For instance, the sentence "The charges total $50" can be rephrased as "The charges sum to $50." The trick here is that the two-word phrase "sum to" has been combined into a single entry, a common practice in crosswords to fit the grid.

Thinking Approaches

When you encounter a clue like "Total," here's a good way to approach it:

1. Consider the Part of Speech: First, think about all the ways the word can be used. If noun synonyms like "SUM" or "AGGREGATE" don't fit the letter count or crossings, pivot to the verb form.
2. Brainstorm Verb Synonyms: What are other ways to say "to total"? You might think of add up to, amount to, or equal.
3. Look for Crossword Conventions: The answer "SUMTO" is a classic example of a "glued-together" phrase. When you're stuck, ask yourself if the answer could be two (or more) short words combined. If you had the S and M from crossing clues, your brain might jump to "SUM." From there, you can test prepositions that might follow it, like "UP" or "TO." "SUM TO" is a perfect fit for the meaning of "Total."
4. Use the Crossings: As always, let the crossing entries guide you. If you have _U_T_, you can start filling in the blanks. SUMTO would quickly emerge as a strong possibility.

Background Context

The practice of combining short words into a single crossword entry is a staple of puzzle construction. It allows for more flexibility in grid design and adds a layer of challenge for the solver. You'll often see entries like INON (for the clue "Party to"), ATIT ("Working hard"), or ONME ("The drinks are ___"). Recognizing this pattern is a key skill for advancing from a novice to an intermediate solver. "SUMTO" falls squarely into this category.

Conclusion

The clue "Total" is a clever piece of misdirection. It nudges you toward a simple noun but ultimately demands a two-word verb phrase, "sum to," presented as a single word. By staying flexible with parts of speech and keeping an eye out for common crossword tricks, you can confidently solve clues like this one.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This phrase describes an action of calculation.
2. Hint 2: It's a two-word phrase combined into one. Think about what numbers do when you add them up.
3. Hint 3: The first part of the answer is a synonym for "total" or "aggregate".
4. Hint 4: It means "to amount to" or "to add up to".