supplication to ares nyt crossword

Flare Clodier Vamd

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02-01-2025

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The New York Times crossword puzzle, known for its challenging clues and clever wordplay, often incorporates mythological references. One such clue, potentially appearing in various NYT crosswords, might be something along the lines of "Supplication to Ares," requiring solvers to know their Greek mythology. While I don't have access to a specific past NYT crossword puzzle to directly quote, I can analyze this type of clue and explore the answer, drawing upon common knowledge and resources like crossword clue databases (like those potentially found on sites such as CrosswordFiend, though I cannot directly access their specific content).

Understanding the Clue:

The clue "Supplication to Ares" points directly to a prayer or plea made to Ares, the Greek god of war. The key to solving it lies in understanding the nature of Ares and the kind of words one might use to address him. Would you offer a gentle request to the god of violent conflict? Unlikely. The answer needs to reflect the intensity and perhaps desperation associated with addressing such a deity.

Possible Answers and Reasoning:

Based on the nature of Ares and the concept of supplication, several words could potentially fit this clue. These would likely be strong, forceful words reflecting a desperate plea:

• Prayer: While a general term, it could fit if the crossword allows for a less specific answer. However, a more precise word would likely be preferred in a challenging NYT puzzle.
• Entreaty: This word suggests a more urgent and passionate plea, aligning better with the context of appealing to a powerful god of war.
• Invocation: This word implies a formal calling upon Ares, suitable for a ritualistic or serious supplication.
• Imploration: This suggests a desperate plea, begging for mercy or assistance. This is a strong contender.

Adding Depth: Ares in Mythology and Literature

To understand why certain answers work better than others, let's consider Ares's role in Greek mythology. He wasn't a revered god like Zeus or Athena; he was often associated with brutality, violence, and chaos. A supplication to him would be different from a supplication to a more benevolent deity. This helps narrow down the possibilities to words that carry a sense of urgency and potentially fear.

Ares is also frequently depicted in literature, both ancient and modern. Examining how authors portray interactions with Ares can give further insight into the appropriate vocabulary for a "supplication." For example, a character pleading for Ares's help in battle might use words reflecting desperation and a need for violent intervention.

Solving Strategies:

If faced with this type of clue, consider these strategies:

1. Think about the tone: The clue's wording dictates the kind of answer. "Supplication" implies a serious and possibly desperate appeal.
2. Consider synonyms: Explore synonyms for "supplication" to find words that fit the crossword grid's length and letter constraints.
3. Use crosswords as a learning tool: Use the crossword as an opportunity to expand your knowledge of mythology and vocabulary.

Conclusion:

While the exact answer depends on the specific crossword and its cross-referencing clues, understanding the mythological context and the nuances of language is crucial. "Imploration" and "invocation" are likely strong candidates based on the intensity and formality typically associated with addressing a formidable god like Ares. By combining knowledge of Greek mythology with strong vocabulary skills, solvers can effectively conquer even the most challenging NYT crossword clues. Remember to always check your answer against the intersecting words to ensure it fits within the grid's constraints.