Stick up - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Stick up," is a classic example of a crossword puzzle using a common phrasal verb to point to a simple, direct answer. It's a great entry-level clue that relies on everyday language rather than obscure trivia, making it a satisfying one to solve.

Clue Analysis

The clue "Stick up" is an idiomatic expression. It's not about literally sticking something in an upward direction. Instead, it's a well-known phrase meaning to commit an armed robbery. The phrase likely originates from the command given by a robber: "Stick 'em up!" (meaning, raise your hands). The puzzle is asking for the verb that describes this specific criminal act. The answer is a short, common verb that is a direct synonym for this action.

Thinking Approaches

When you encounter a short, two-word clue like this, especially one ending in a preposition like "up," "in," or "out," your first thought should be to treat it as a phrasal verb or idiom. Here's a step-by-step process:

1. Identify the Idiom: Recognize that "Stick up" is a set phrase with a specific meaning.
2. Define the Idiom: Ask yourself, "What does 'to stick up' a place or person mean?" The immediate answer is to steal from them using force or threats.
3. Find the Core Verb: What is the single verb for that action? Words like steal, plunder, or heist come to mind. The most common and direct three-letter verb is the answer.
4. Use Crossings: For a short answer, confirming with even one crossing letter is incredibly helpful. If you have the R, O, or B, the answer becomes almost certain.

Background Context

The phrase "stick up" is deeply embedded in popular culture, particularly in genres like Westerns and gangster films. From old-timey bank heists where a masked bandit shouts, "This is a stick-up!" to modern crime dramas, the expression is universally understood. This cultural context makes the clue accessible to a wide range of solvers, as most will have encountered the phrase even if they don't use it themselves.

Conclusion

"Stick up" is an excellent example of a clean, fair, and straightforward clue. It tests your knowledge of common English idioms rather than demanding deep trivia. Solving it provides a nice bit of momentum and a confidence boost, especially for newer solvers. It's a reminder that sometimes the simplest interpretation of a common phrase is the right one.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think of an illegal activity.
2. Hint 2: This action involves taking something from someone, often with a threat.
3. Hint 3: The clue is a common phrasal verb associated with heists or muggings.
4. Hint 4: A synonym for "plunder" or "burglarize".

The answer is ROB.