Check-in line? - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Check-in line?", is a perfect example of the playful misdirection that makes the NYT Crossword so engaging. The question mark at the end is our biggest hint that we shouldn't take the clue at face value. It's not about waiting at a counter; it's about a line of dialogue.

Clue Analysis

The brilliance of this clue lies in the double meaning of "check-in."

• Literal Meaning: The most common interpretation is the process of registering at an airport, hotel, or event. A "check-in line" would be the physical queue of people waiting to do so.
• Figurative Meaning: We also "check in" on people. This means to contact someone to see how they are doing, to inquire about their well-being or status.

The clue combines this figurative meaning of "check-in" with the word "line," which in this context means a spoken phrase or question. The question mark confirms this playful interpretation. So, the clue is asking for a spoken phrase one would use to check in on someone.

Thinking Approaches

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

1. Spot the Signpost: The question mark is a classic crossword signpost for a pun, wordplay, or a non-literal interpretation. Acknowledge it immediately.
2. Deconstruct the Phrase: Break the clue into its parts: "Check-in" and "line." Ask yourself about alternative meanings for each part.
3. Brainstorm Alternatives: What else can "check-in" mean? Ah, to see how someone is. What else can a "line" be? A sentence or a question.
4. Synthesize and Test: Combine the alternative meanings. What is a line you would say to check in on someone? This leads to phrases like "How are you?", "What's up?", "Everything okay?", or, in this case, a very common informal question.
5. Use the Crossings: If you're stuck between possibilities, getting even one or two crossing letters can confirm the correct phrase and its specific wording.

Background Context

This clue fits into a beloved category of crossword puzzles where common, multi-word phrases are entered as a single string of letters. Constructors love these because they are fun to write clues for and provide satisfying "aha" moments for solvers. The answer, a colloquial question, feels fresh and modern, reflecting how people actually speak.

Conclusion

The answer to "Check-in line?" is a phrase that perfectly captures the clue's clever misdirection. By shifting the meaning of "check-in" from a formal process to a caring, social act, the clue leads us to a familiar and friendly question. It's a great reminder to always look for the second meaning, especially when that little question mark is winking at you.

Hints

1. Hint 1: The clue is not about a physical queue at a hotel or airport. The question mark signals wordplay.
2. Hint 2: Think of 'checking in' in a social or personal sense, like asking about someone's well-being.
3. Hint 3: The answer is a common question one might ask a friend to see how they are doing.
4. Hint 4: It's an informal, three-word phrase that asks if someone is okay.