Cost of a cab - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Cost of a cab," is a classic example of a straightforward definition found in many crossword puzzles. It's a simple, direct query that relies on common vocabulary, making it an excellent entry point for solvers of all levels. Let's break down how to approach this clue and understand the word behind it.

Clue Analysis

The clue is a simple phrase: "Cost of a cab".

• "Cost": This points to a price, fee, or charge for a service.
• "a cab": This is a common term for a taxi or taxicab.

Putting it together, the clue is asking for the specific word used to describe the money you pay for a taxi ride. This is a very direct definition, with no wordplay, puns, or misdirection involved.

Thinking Approaches

A solver might arrive at the answer through a few mental pathways:

1. Direct Association: The most common approach is immediate word association. The brain links "cab" and "cost" to the specific term used for transportation fees. Most English speakers will instantly think of the correct word.

2. Synonym Exploration: If the answer isn't immediate, you might brainstorm synonyms.

   • For "cost": price, fee, charge, toll, rate.
   • For "cab": taxi.
   • Now, which of the "cost" words specifically applies to a taxi ride? While you might pay a "fee" or a "rate," the most precise and common term is the answer we're looking for.

3. Using Crossings: For a short, four-letter word, even one or two crossing letters can make the answer obvious. For example, if you have F _ _ E, your brain will likely fill in the blanks immediately.

Background Context

The answer to this clue is a word with multiple meanings, which makes it a favorite among crossword constructors. While its primary meaning in this context is the price of a journey on public transport, it can also refer to a range of food and drink. For instance, you might hear about "pub fare" or "simple country fare," referring to the type of food served.

This duality is useful in crosswords because the same answer can be clued in different ways, such as "Menu offerings" or "Eats." Recognizing these common, multi-purpose words is a key skill in becoming a faster solver.

Conclusion

"Cost of a cab" is a quintessential "easy" clue. It tests basic vocabulary and rewards direct thinking. It serves as a great anchor in a puzzle, helping you build out a section with confidence. When you see a clue this clear, solve it quickly and use its letters to unlock the more challenging clues around it.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This is the general term for the price you pay for a journey.
2. Hint 2: It applies to various forms of public transport, like buses, trains, and taxis.
3. Hint 3: As a different meaning, it can refer to the food and drink available at an establishment.
4. Hint 4: It sounds the same as a word meaning "just" or "equitable."

The answer is FARE.