Monumental - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Monumental," is a classic example of a straightforward synonym clue often found in daily crosswords. It's a single-word adjective looking for another adjective with a similar meaning. These types of clues are great for getting a foothold in a puzzle, as they rely on direct vocabulary knowledge rather than tricky wordplay.

Clue Analysis

The clue "Monumental" directly points to something of great size, scale, or importance. The word itself contains a hint: it's related to a monument. Monuments, like the Washington Monument or the pyramids, are typically large, imposing structures. Therefore, the most direct interpretation of "monumental" is "very large" or "on a grand scale."

The puzzle is asking for a common synonym that fits this description. Given that this is a daily crossword, we're likely looking for a familiar, high-frequency word rather than something obscure like "colossal" or "gargantuan," although those are also valid synonyms.

Thinking Approaches

When you encounter a clue like this, a few strategies can help you land on the answer quickly:

1. Synonym Brainstorming: Start by listing words that mean "monumental." Your mental list might include: large, vast, massive, enormous, gigantic, great, grand. The key is to then check the letter count required by the grid.

2. Use the Crossings: This is the most powerful tool in your arsenal. If the answer is four letters long and you already have the 'H' from a crossing clue, "HUGE" becomes a very strong candidate. Even one or two letters can instantly clarify which synonym is the correct one.

3. Consider the Connotation: While "monumental" can mean "important" (e.g., a monumental decision), its primary connotation, especially in a visual or physical sense, is about size. Crosswords often lean on the most common or literal meaning of a word.

Background Context

The word "monumental" derives from the Latin monumentum, which means "a memorial" or "something that reminds." This comes from the verb monere, "to remind." Historically, monuments were created to be lasting and impressive reminders of people or events, which is why they were often built on a grand, or monumental, scale. This connection between memory, importance, and physical size is why the word carries both meanings today.

Conclusion

"Monumental" is a perfect example of an "easy" difficulty clue. It's a direct vocabulary test that rewards a solid grasp of synonyms. By thinking about the root word "monument" and brainstorming related concepts of size, solvers can quickly arrive at the correct answer, helping to unlock the surrounding puzzle grid.

Hints

1. Hint 1: A synonym for 'very large'.
2. Hint 2: Think of something of great size or scale.
3. Hint 3: It's a common, four-letter word.
4. Hint 4: Often used to describe something impressive in its vastness, like a success or a building.

The answer is HUGE.