Like some silences - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Like some silences," is a classic example of a descriptive clue that relies on a very common word pairing. It asks for an adjective that characterizes a particular type of silence, one that is far from peaceful. This is a great entry-level clue that rewards everyday language knowledge.

Clue Analysis

The clue is simple and direct: "Like some silences". The key word here is "some". We're not looking for an adjective that describes all silences (like "quiet" or "total"), but one that describes a specific, often unsettling, kind. The silence in a library is peaceful; the silence in an abandoned house at midnight is...

...something else entirely. The answer needs to capture that feeling of strangeness or unease. The phrase "eerie silence" is a well-established collocation in English, making the answer a natural fit for the clue.

Thinking Approaches

For a clue like this, a few strategies can quickly lead you to the answer:

1. Word Association: Start with the word "silence". What adjectives can you pair with it? You might think of awkward silence, deafening silence, peaceful silence, and spooky silence. Following the "spooky" or "unsettling" path will lead you directly to synonyms like "creepy" or the answer itself.

2. Fill-in-the-Blank: Frame the clue as a sentence: "The sudden silence in the forest was ______." Your brain will likely suggest words that fit the context of a potentially scary or mysterious situation. This method helps tap into your intuitive understanding of language.

3. Leverage Crossings: This is a five-letter word with three vowels, two of which are the same. If you can get even one or two crossing letters, especially a vowel, the answer will likely fall into place very quickly. The distinctive double 'E' pattern is a major giveaway.

Background Context

The word EERIE has its roots in Old English and Scottish terms related to fear and timidity. Over time, it evolved to describe a specific kind of fear: one that is supernatural, strange, and unsettling. It's a cornerstone of gothic literature, horror films, and ghost stories. Authors and directors use the concept of an "eerie silence" to build suspense and create a foreboding atmosphere, signaling to the audience that something is not right.

Conclusion

"Like some silences" is a wonderfully efficient clue. It uses just three words to evoke a distinct mood and point solvers toward a common and fitting adjective. It's a perfect example of a clue that feels fair and satisfying to solve, relying on shared cultural and linguistic knowledge rather than obscure trivia.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This adjective describes something that is unsettling or strange.
2. Hint 2: Think of the feeling you might get in a haunted house or a graveyard at night.
3. Hint 3: This word often describes a quiet that feels unnatural or spooky.
4. Hint 4: A synonym for this word could be "creepy" or "unearthly".