Avoid, as a falling anvil - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Avoid, as a falling anvil," is a delightful example of how a simple definition can be brought to life with vivid imagery. It's a straightforward clue that relies on a well-known cultural reference to guide the solver to a common verb. Let's break down how to tackle this fun and accessible puzzle piece.

Clue Analysis

The clue has two parts:

1. The core definition: "Avoid"
2. The illustrative example: "as a falling anvil"

The word "Avoid" is the primary directive. We are looking for a synonym. The second part, "as a falling anvil," provides crucial context. It's not just avoiding a conversation or a task; it's avoiding a physical, fast-moving, and dangerous object. This points towards a verb that implies a quick, physical movement. The reference to a "falling anvil" is a classic trope from slapstick comedy, immediately bringing to mind cartoons where characters must leap out of the way of such hazards.

Thinking Approaches

A solver might arrive at the answer through a few different paths:

1. Synonym Ladder: Start with "Avoid." What words mean the same thing? Evade, elude, escape, sidestep, duck. The answer is in this family of words.
2. Visualization: Picture the scenario described. An anvil is plummeting towards you. What is the instinctive action you take? You jump, duck, or swerve out of the way. You make a sudden move to get clear. This physical act is the answer.
3. Pop Culture Association: The "falling anvil" is iconic, particularly from Looney Tunes. Thinking about Wile E. Coyote's many failed attempts to catch the Road Runner often involves him having to get out of the way of his own backfiring Acme products. The verb for this action is a perfect fit.
4. Letter Patterns: If you have some crossing letters, this answer often falls into place quickly. For a five-letter word, a pattern like D_D_E is highly suggestive of the correct answer.

Background Context

The "falling anvil" is a cornerstone of cartoon physics. It's a comedic device where the laws of nature are bent for humorous effect. Anvils, pianos, and safes often appear out of thin air to flatten an unsuspecting character. This trope signifies sudden, unexpected, and comically exaggerated danger. The action required to escape it is equally sudden and reflexive, making the answer a perfect fit for the imagery.

Conclusion

This clue is a great example of an "easy" clue done right. It's not just a dry definition; it's painted with a colorful, humorous image that helps guide the solver. By combining a simple synonym with a universally understood cartoon reference, the clue becomes both solvable and enjoyable.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think of a quick, sudden movement to get out of the way.
2. Hint 2: This action is the namesake of a popular schoolyard game involving throwing balls at opponents.
3. Hint 3: It's a synonym for 'evade' or 'sidestep'.
4. Hint 4: The clue's imagery is a classic trope from cartoons like Looney Tunes.

The answer is DODGE.