Made Significant Efforts NYT Crossword: Meaning, Answers, and Complete Solver’s Guide

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The made significant efforts NYT crossword clue is one that often captures the attention of avid crossword solvers. It’s a phrase that reflects determination, action, and persistence — qualities mirrored in the challenge of solving The New York Times Crossword itself. Like many NYT clues, this one demands a deep understanding of context, synonyms, and wordplay. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind the clue, its most common answers, and some essential strategies to approach it confidently.

Understanding the Clue “Made Significant Efforts NYT Crossword”

When encountering the made significant efforts NYT crossword clue, solvers are typically being asked for a verb or verb phrase that means “to try hard,” “to strive,” or “to put in great effort.” The New York Times Crossword is known for its clever phrasing — sometimes the clue appears literally, and other times it’s framed in a more metaphorical sense.

Common answers for this clue include TRIED, STROVE, ENDEAVORED, TOILED, or WORKED HARD. The most likely option depends on the number of letters in the puzzle’s grid and the difficulty level of the crossword. For shorter puzzles, TRIED or STROVE fit best; in more challenging crosswords, the editors may choose ENDEAVORED or LABORED.

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How to Interpret Context in NYT Crossword Clues

The made significant efforts NYT crossword clue often tests a solver’s ability to read tone and nuance. In The New York Times Crossword, clues that use past tense verbs typically expect past tense answers. For example:

  • “Made significant efforts” → TRIED, STROVE, ENDEAVORED 
  • “Makes significant efforts” → TRIES, STRIVES, WORKS HARD 

The difference between tense and tone can be subtle but crucial. Solvers who pay close attention to grammatical structure often find it easier to crack such clues.

Common Answers for “Made Significant Efforts”

Here are the most common solutions to the made significant efforts NYT crossword clue based on historical puzzle data and solving trends:

  • TRIED – The simplest and most frequently used five-letter answer. 
  • STROVE – A classic term meaning “struggled or made great effort.” 
  • ENDEAVORED – A longer and more formal synonym. 
  • TOILED – Refers to working hard or laboring strenuously. 
  • LABORED – Common in both physical and figurative contexts. 

When solving, always cross-check the intersecting clues to determine which fits best.

Why the NYT Crossword Uses Action-Based Clues

The made significant efforts NYT crossword clue reflects the puzzle’s tradition of including motivational and expressive verbs. Words that convey effort, persistence, or action resonate with solvers because crossword solving itself is a process of persistence and problem-solving.

Additionally, such clues help improve vocabulary and synonym recognition. Through clues like these, solvers encounter a variety of expressive terms — from everyday verbs like tried to formal ones like endeavored. The editors of The New York Times Crossword deliberately use language that encourages reflection and growth in word comprehension.

Tips for Solving the “Made Significant Efforts” Clue

  1. Focus on Verb Tense: If the clue says “made,” your answer must be in the past tense. 
  2. Use Cross Letters: Check intersecting answers for letter hints that confirm or eliminate options. 
  3. Look for Synonyms: Think of all possible words that mean “worked hard” or “tried.” 
  4. Consider Difficulty Level: Monday puzzles are easier (answers like TRIED), while Sunday or Saturday may use ENDEAVORED. 
  5. Expand Vocabulary: Learn alternative verbs like STROVE, LABORED, or TOILED that appear frequently in NYT crosswords. 

Examples of Clue Variations

The made significant efforts NYT crossword clue may appear in slightly altered forms, such as:

  • “Put in great effort” 
  • “Tried earnestly” 
  • “Worked tirelessly” 
  • “Strove to succeed” 
  • “Did one’s best” 

Recognizing these variations helps solvers adapt quickly, regardless of how the clue is phrased.

FAQs about Made Significant Efforts NYT Crossword

  1. What is the most common answer for the “made significant efforts NYT crossword” clue?
    The most common answer is TRIED, though STROVE and ENDEAVORED also appear depending on puzzle difficulty.
  2. How can I determine which answer fits best?
    Use the number of letters and cross-check with other clues to confirm the correct word.
  3. Why does the NYT Crossword use clues about effort or work?
    Such clues represent universal human experiences and make the puzzles more relatable and engaging.
  4. Are there similar clues to this one?
    Yes, you might see related clues like “Worked hard,” “Did one’s utmost,” or “Put effort into it.”
  5. What strategy helps solve these kinds of clues faster?
    Build a list of common action verbs and focus on grammatical cues such as tense and plurality.

Conclusion

The made significant efforts NYT crossword clue is a brilliant example of how The New York Times Crossword challenges solvers to think critically about language and meaning. It goes beyond surface-level definitions, inviting players to interpret emotion and intent through words. Whether the answer turns out to be TRIED, STROVE, or ENDEAVORED, understanding the essence of the clue enhances both your solving speed and appreciation for linguistic creativity. So next time you encounter the made significant efforts NYT crossword, remember — every attempt, just like solving itself, is an effort worth making.


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