Bank robbery, e.g. - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Bank robbery, e.g.," is a classic example of a straightforward definition-style clue found frequently in early-week puzzles. The key to solving it lies in understanding the abbreviation "e.g." and identifying the general category to which the example belongs.

Clue Analysis

The clue provides a specific example: "Bank robbery." The abbreviation "e.g." is short for the Latin phrase exempli gratia, which means "for example." This is a direct signal to the solver that the answer is not "bank robbery" itself, but a more general term for which a bank robbery is a prime example. We are looking for a noun that describes a large, planned theft.

Thinking Approaches

1. Categorization: The first step is to recognize the function of "e.g.". Ask yourself, "What is a bank robbery?" It's a type of crime, a type of theft. What's a more specific, often dramatic, word for it?

2. Synonym Ladder: Start with "robbery" and think of related words. You might think of theft, burglary, caper, or job. One of these is very close in spirit. The word we're looking for often implies a high degree of planning and a high-value target.

3. Pop Culture Association: This type of event is a popular subject for movies. What genre of film focuses on a team of specialists coming together to steal something valuable? The name of that genre is the answer. Think of films like Ocean's Eleven, The Italian Job, or Inside Man.

4. Use Crossings: For a five-letter word, even one or two crossing letters can make the answer immediately apparent. If you had the 'H' and the 'T', for instance, this word would be a very strong candidate.

Background Context

The answer word is strongly associated with a specific genre of crime fiction and film. The heist film is a popular subgenre that depicts the planning, execution, and aftermath of a large-scale robbery. The term itself has roots in American slang, likely derived from the word "hoist," as in to lift something of value.

Conclusion

This clue is a great exercise in recognizing common crossword indicators. By understanding that "e.g." asks for a category or a broader term, solvers can quickly move from the specific example ("Bank robbery") to the more general, and correct, answer. It's a satisfying and accessible clue that rewards basic crossword knowledge.

Hints

1. Hint 1: A term for a large-scale, organized theft.
2. Hint 2: This word is often used in movies about elaborate robberies, like 'Ocean's Eleven'.
3. Hint 3: It's a synonym for a caper or a big score.
4. Hint 4: The act itself is a type of felony.

The answer is HEIST.