Place for driving - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Place for driving," is a fantastic example of the kind of clever misdirection that makes crossword puzzles so engaging. It plays on a common word with multiple meanings, nudging the solver down one path before revealing another, more specific context. It's a classic trick that's satisfying to unravel.

Clue Analysis

The clue hinges entirely on the word "driving." Our immediate, everyday association is with operating a car. This leads our minds to answers like ROAD, STREET, HIGHWAY, or even a more specific place like a RACETRACK. However, if those answers don't fit the grid's letter count or crossing entries, it's a signal to reconsider the clue's meaning.

The alternate meaning of "driving" comes from the world of sports, specifically golf. To "drive" a golf ball is to hit it for a long distance, typically from the tee box, with a club called a driver. The designated place for practicing this specific action is a "driving range."

Thinking Approaches

When you encounter a seemingly straightforward clue like this, and the obvious answers aren't working, here's a good mental process:

1. Identify the Ambiguous Word: In "Place for driving," the key word is driving.
2. Brainstorm Alternate Meanings: Ask yourself, "What else can 'driving' mean?"
   • Driving a car (transportation)
   • Driving a golf ball (sports)
   • Driving a nail with a hammer (construction)
   • A driving rain (weather)
   • A driving ambition (metaphorical)
3. Test the Meanings: Which of these meanings fits the clue's structure, "Place for..."? A "place for driving a golf ball" makes perfect sense. This leads you directly to the concept of a practice area.
4. Use Crossings: As always, crossing letters are your best friend. If you have a few letters in place, you can quickly confirm or deny your hypothesis. An 'N' or a 'G' would strongly suggest the golf-related answer over something like ROAD.

Background Context

A driving range is a facility where golfers can practice their swing. It's a common feature at golf courses or as a standalone business. This type of clue, which relies on a familiar term from a specific domain like sports, is a staple of crossword construction. Constructors love to exploit these secondary meanings to create those delightful "aha!" moments.

Conclusion

"Place for driving" is a masterclass in subtle misdirection. It teaches us to remain flexible in our thinking and to question our initial assumptions. Once you see past the automotive interpretation, the answer becomes clear. It's a great reminder that in crosswords, the most obvious path isn't always the correct one.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This clue is not about operating a vehicle.
2. Hint 2: Think of a place associated with a particular sport.
3. Hint 3: It's an area for practicing long shots in a game.
4. Hint 4: Golfers go here to hit balls with a specific type of club.