Very similar - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Very similar," is a perfect example of a straightforward definition clue. It points directly to a common, everyday phrase that you've likely used countless times. This type of clue is a welcome sight in any crossword, offering a clear path to the answer without tricky wordplay.

Clue Analysis

The clue is a simple two-word definition. The solver's task is to find a word or phrase that means the same thing. The answer, ALOTALIKE, is a colloquial phrase that functions as a single entry in the crossword grid. It's the phrase "a lot alike" written without spaces. This is a common convention in crosswords to fit multi-word phrases into the grid structure. The meaning is literal: when two things are "a lot alike," they are indeed "very similar."

Thinking Approaches

1. Direct Association: Your first instinct should be to brainstorm synonyms or equivalent phrases for "very similar." You might think of identical, indistinguishable, or like twins. If the letter count for those doesn't work, you'd pivot to common sayings.

2. Phrase Recognition: The clue feels conversational, which is a good hint that the answer might be a spoken phrase rather than a single, formal word. Ask yourself, "How would I say this in a normal conversation?" You might say, "Those two look a lot alike." This leads you directly to the answer.

3. Leveraging Crossings: If you're not getting it right away, a few crossing letters will make it obvious. Seeing an initial 'A' or the ending 'LIKE' would be a massive giveaway. For instance, if you had the pattern A_O_A_IKE, your brain would likely fill in the blanks almost automatically.

Background Context

Phrase answers are a staple of modern crosswords. They add flavor and reflect how people actually speak. The practice of running words together into a single grid entry (like ALOTALIKE) is standard. While it can sometimes trip up newer solvers who are looking for a single word, it's a technique you quickly get used to. Recognizing that a clue might be pointing to a multi-word phrase is a key skill in crossword solving.

Conclusion

This clue and answer pair is a great example of a clean, fair, and satisfying solve. It doesn't rely on obscure knowledge or clever misdirection, but rather on the solver's familiarity with common English expressions. It's a solid, accessible clue that helps build a foundation for filling out the rest of the puzzle.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This phrase describes two things that are difficult to distinguish from one another.
2. Hint 2: It's a common, informal three-word phrase.
3. Hint 3: The first word is the indefinite article 'a', and the second means 'a large quantity'.
4. Hint 4: The final part of the phrase is a synonym for 'resembling' or 'similar'.

The answer is: ALOTALIKE