Guzzle - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Guzzle," is a great example of a straightforward vocabulary challenge often found in crossword puzzles. It asks for a direct synonym, testing your knowledge of words related to eating or drinking with gusto. While the clue itself is simple, the answer's structure might be what gives solvers a moment's pause.

Clue Analysis

The clue "Guzzle" is a verb that means to drink or eat something greedily and quickly. The puzzle is looking for another word or, in this case, a phrasal verb that captures this same meaning. There's no wordplay, hidden meaning, or trickery here; it's a classic definition-based clue. The key is to find a term that fits the grid and perfectly matches the enthusiastic, rapid consumption implied by "guzzle."

Thinking Approaches

When faced with a clue like this, a few strategies can lead you to the answer:

1. Direct Synonym Brainstorm: Start by listing words that mean "guzzle." You might come up with chug, swig, quaff, bolt, or slurp. Keep these in mind as you look at the letter count and any crossing entries.
2. Consider Phrasal Verbs: English is rich with phrasal verbs (a verb plus a preposition or adverb). Think about actions related to drinking. You might "drink up," "knock back," or "put away" a beverage. This line of thinking is crucial here, as the answer is a two-part phrase.
3. Sound Association: What sound does one make when guzzling? A "gulp" is a very common and related sound/action. This can be a powerful mental nudge toward the first part of the answer. Combining this with the idea of a phrasal verb, you might ask, "Gulp what?" You "gulp down."
4. Use the Crossings: As always, crossing clues are your best friend. If you have a few letters, especially near the middle of the entry, you can often confirm if you're on the right track. Seeing a 'P' after 'GUL' or a 'W' before the final 'N' would be a strong confirmation.

Background Context

The word "guzzle" has been around since the late 16th century, likely originating from the French word gosier, meaning "throat." It's an evocative word, suggesting not just speed but also a certain lack of refinement.

The answer, a phrasal verb, is a common feature in both everyday English and crossword puzzles. These combinations often have idiomatic meanings that are different from their individual parts. In this case, "gulp" means to swallow, and "down" indicates completion or direction, making the answer a very literal and descriptive synonym for "guzzle."

Conclusion

The clue "Guzzle" is a solid, accessible entry that rewards a direct approach. The main hurdle is recognizing that the answer is a two-word phrasal verb rather than a single word. By brainstorming synonyms and considering different word structures, solvers can effectively crack this clue and fill in a significant portion of the grid.

Hints

1. Hint 1: To consume something, especially a drink, very quickly.
2. Hint 2: Think of a large, audible swallow.
3. Hint 3: The answer is a two-word phrasal verb.
4. Hint 4: The first part is a synonym for "swallow," and the second part indicates direction.

The answer is GULPDOWN.