If you’re one of the thousands of readers of NYT crosswords, then you must know that every single one is always something different. And today, in our challenge, Friday, December 20’s “Toodles” was not going to be an exception. Here, we break down everything you need to know to help you solve this clue – and have a few extra words of wisdom to help ride out other puzzles like this.
What Does “Toodles” Mean in the Today’s NYT Crossword?
Clue: “Toodles”
Answer: BYE
“Toodles” is a pretty casual slang usage of good-bye often in the guise of a flip lighthearted playful friendly gesture. One of the curious word expressions coming up in crosswords because, candidly speaking, such offbeat words, creating personality and play, also go to the heart of the puzzle with which people used to penning their goodbyes somehow can’t help feeling a bit hard to say. But of course one must recall that, in crosswords generally, a large number of clues are there to press on the solver’s repository of idiomatic expression, slang, and current cant.
But let’s talk about the look of The New York Times crossword. Seriously though, it is harder from Monday to Saturday; it goes from the easiest day, Monday, to Saturday is the hardest day. Friday and Saturday have more obscure words, wordplay, and challenging clues so that even the most competent puzzle solvers have a sense of accomplishment when they solve it.
How to Solve “Toodles” and Other Examples

Here are a few hints to help you get the most out of today’s crossword and enhance your ability to solve similar puzzles down the road:
- Be alert to wordplay. Crossword clues are replete with puns, indirect hints, or wordplay. The clue for “Toodles” is a friendly way of talking about saying goodbye. So keep an eye out for clues that have multiple meanings or usage.
- Short Words in the Grid: The word for “Toodles” has only three letters. Eliminate lots of possibilities on your list. Many readers find it surprising to encounter the answers “bye,” “ciao,” or “adieu.”
- Crossword Resources: Online crossword solvers, crossword dictionaries, and even crossword puzzle forums are helpful resources. The best part about doing a crossword is doing it yourself!
- Solve Across and Down Clues Together: Do not wait to solve across and down clues in tandem. Very often, the solution to one clue yields letters that will open up other answers.
- Build a Crossword-Solving Habit: Find a time when your distractions are minimal. Concentration and persistence are needed to tackle a crossword; a quiet time or space can help just this.
FAQ’s About NYT Crossword Puzzles
1. The crossword answer sounded more like some strange word to some form of greeting- “Toodles”.
“Toodles” is an informal manner with a slightly archaic taste of saying goodbye to be jarring in formally-sounding crossword clues. But that, crosswords are able to use colloquial expressions, idioms, even slangs to raise its own level of difficulty within it.
2. Crossword symbols are? or!
In NYT crosswords, if a question mark is appearing on the clue, that means a word has its pun or its usage is not as common as others. If one such clue is “Odd way to play,” with an answer of “AIR,” that indicates it is a playful or indirect move that is played.
3. How can I get better at solving tough crossword clues?
The key is practice! Over time, you’ll become more familiar with common crossword phrases, wordplay techniques, and obscure references. Keep solving regularly, and don’t be afraid to consult resources when you’re stuck.
4. Are there common crossword answers that repeat in puzzles?
A big yes! Most crosswords are redundant, mostly containing short words and crossword common expressions. The most frequently used words are “ORE,” “ERA,” “AIT,” and “STEE.” Knowing them will surely make you get a good solution to the crosswords.
5. How do I love NYT crosswords without getting frustrated?
Remember, an answer to a crossword puzzle is a journey in itself, as much as it is a destination. So have fun with little victories, take breaks when needed, and if you get stuck, walk away for a minute and come back with fresh eyes.
Significance of Crossword Puzzles to Mental Fitness
Crossword puzzles are quite fun, and good for the brain. Puzzling in a regular basis builds your cognitive function, improves your vocabulary, and makes you a more critical thinker. The differences in clues-the cultural ones, word plays, or definitions-sharpens up problem-solving.
Conclusion: Solving the “Toodles” Clue
The NYT crossword clue reads: “Toodles.” That is a colloquialism meaning good-bye. The answer to this puzzle is BYE, a common word of parting used by persons in everyday conversation. Such phrases are often easier than they should be and still manage to fool a person or two. The device is often used to liven up a rather dull crossword puzzle.
Continue to enhance your solving skills with the following hints, which include a few tips for solving crosswords. Never forget to practice often and have fun. Have fun working on clues! Happy puzzling!
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