Out of battery juice - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Out of battery juice," is a classic example of how crossword puzzles tap into our everyday language and colloquialisms. It's a phrase you've likely said or heard countless times, making it a friendly entry point for many solvers.

Clue Analysis

The clue uses the informal term "battery juice" to refer to a battery's electrical charge. The phrase "out of" signifies that this charge has been completely depleted. Therefore, the clue is asking for a simple, common word that describes a battery (or any electronic device) that no longer has power. The answer is a direct synonym for this state.

Thinking Approaches

For a clue like this, the thought process is often quick and intuitive:

1. Direct Association: The most common approach is to hear the phrase "out of battery juice" and immediately think of the word we use to describe that state. Your brain likely jumps to the answer without much effort.
2. Mental Substitution: Ask yourself, "If my phone is out of battery juice, my phone is... what?" The word that fills in that blank is the answer.
3. Consider the Context: This is a very common, modern problem. The language used is informal ("juice"), so the answer is likely to be a simple, common word rather than a technical term like "depleted" or "discharged."
4. Leverage Crossings: If the answer doesn't come to you immediately, getting even one or two crossing letters for this four-letter word will almost certainly solve it for you.

Background Context

The use of "juice" to mean electricity or power dates back to the late 19th century. Phrases like "battery juice" and applying human-like states such as "dead" or "asleep" to our electronics are perfect examples of how language evolves to describe new technology. We anthropomorphize our gadgets, making it easier to talk about their states in relatable terms. This clue plays directly on that shared modern vocabulary.

Conclusion

"Out of battery juice" is a quintessential easy crossword clue. It's straightforward, relies on common slang, and provides a satisfying and quick solve that can help build momentum for tackling the rest of the puzzle. It's a reminder that not every clue is a brain-buster; some are just about knowing the language we use every day.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This word describes a general state of being non-functional or inoperative.
2. Hint 2: It can be used for a phone with no power, a car that won't start, or even a quiet party.
3. Hint 3: It's the opposite of "live" or "alive."
4. Hint 4: Complete the common phrase: "My phone is ___."

The answer is DEAD.