“Since you didn’t hear me the first time …” - NYT Mini-Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue from the NYT Mini-Crossword is a classic example of an "in-the-language" entry. Instead of a definition or a piece of trivia, the clue is a conversational setup, and the answer is the natural continuation of that thought. These types of clues are common in modern crosswords and test a solver's ear for everyday speech.

Clue Analysis

The clue, "Since you didn't hear me the first time ...", is presented in quotation marks, signaling that we are looking for a spoken phrase. The context is clear: someone has already said something, it wasn't heard or heeded, and now they are about to repeat it, likely with a bit of exasperation. The answer we're looking for is the phrase that bridges the gap between this setup and the repeated statement.

Think of it as filling in the blank in a real-life conversation:

Person A: "Could you take out the trash?" (silence) Person A: "Since you didn't hear me the first time... I SAID, could you take out the trash?"

The answer, therefore, is the verbal preamble to the repetition.

Thinking Approaches

1. Play the Part: Imagine yourself in this scenario. What words would you use to show your slight frustration and to emphasize that you're repeating yourself? This mental role-playing can often lead you directly to the answer.

2. Identify the Clue Type: Recognizing this as a "spoken phrase" clue is half the battle. Once you know you're not looking for a synonym or a definition, your brain can switch gears to focus on conversational language.

3. Use the Crossings: For this type of clue, even one or two crossing letters can be a huge help. If you had the initial 'I' and the 'S' from other answers, the phrase would likely jump out at you immediately. The structure is very common.

Background Context

Crossword puzzles, especially under the editorship of Will Shortz at The New York Times, have increasingly embraced colloquialisms, slang, and everyday phrases. This makes the puzzles feel more current and accessible. Clues like this one are a perfect example of this philosophy. They reward solvers who are attuned to the rhythm and patterns of modern English, not just those with a large vocabulary of obscure words.

Conclusion

This clue is a great reminder to stay flexible in your solving approach. When you see quotation marks, consider that the answer might not be a single word but a common phrase. By thinking conversationally and putting yourself in the context of the clue, you can often solve these entries quickly and confidently.