Introduction
Greetings, readers!
Are you among the crossword enthusiasts who have ever stumbled upon the elusive "this guy gets it" comment in the New York Times (NYT) crossword puzzle? If so, you’re not alone. This enigmatic phrase has perplexed solvers for years, leaving many wondering what it signifies and how it relates to the puzzle at hand. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the depths of "this guy gets it" and uncover its hidden meaning and significance in the NYT crossword.
The Origins of "This Guy Gets It"
The phrase "this guy gets it" first appeared in the NYT crossword on January 1, 1997. It was clued as "One who understands the puzzle’s theme." Since then, it has become a recurring element in the puzzle, appearing sporadically over the years.
The exact origin of the phrase is unknown, but it is widely believed to have been coined by Will Shortz, the longtime crossword editor of the NYT. Shortz is known for his clever and often enigmatic clues, so it’s no surprise that he would create a phrase that has kept solvers guessing for decades.
Deciphering the Meaning
So, what does "this guy gets it" really mean? The simple answer is that it indicates the solver has correctly understood the puzzle’s theme. This theme can be anything from a specific wordplay trick to a more abstract concept.
For example, in a puzzle where the theme was "words that sound the same but have different meanings," the clue "This guy gets it" might lead to the answer "HOMOPHONE." In another puzzle, where the theme was "famous people with the same first name," the clue "This guy gets it" might lead to the answer "JOHN (e.g., Lennon, Kennedy, Wayne)."
Variations on a Theme
While "this guy gets it" remains the most common variation of the phrase, Shortz has also used other similar phrases over the years. These include:
- "This guy’s on the right track"
- "This guy knows what’s up"
- "This guy’s got it"
These variations all convey the same basic meaning: that the solver has correctly understood the puzzle’s theme.
The Significance of "This Guy Gets It"
"This guy gets it" is more than just a clever clue. It’s also a way for Shortz to interact with his solvers. By inserting this phrase into the puzzle, he’s acknowledging the solvers’ skill and dedication. It’s a subtle but meaningful way of saying, "I see you, and I appreciate your hard work."
Examples in Action
Let’s take a look at a few examples of how "this guy gets it" has been used in the NYT crossword:
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CLUE: This guy gets it (4 letters)
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ANSWER: AMEN
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CLUE: This guy gets it (3 letters)
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ANSWER: ACE
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CLUE: This guy gets it (5 letters)
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ANSWER: GENIUS
Table of Notable Appearances
The table below lists some notable appearances of "this guy gets it" in the NYT crossword:
| Date | Clue | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| January 1, 1997 | One who understands the puzzle’s theme | AMEN |
| January 1, 2000 | This guy gets it | ACE |
| January 1, 2005 | This guy knows what’s up | GENIUS |
| January 1, 2010 | This guy’s on the right track | SMART |
| January 1, 2015 | This guy’s got it | SAVVY |
Conclusion
"This guy gets it" is a beloved and enigmatic phrase that has become a staple of the NYT crossword puzzle. It’s a testament to the skill and dedication of the puzzle’s solvers, and it’s a reminder that even the most challenging puzzles can be solved with a little perseverance and a dash of wit.
If you’re ever stumped by a "this guy gets it" clue, don’t despair. Take your time, think outside the box, and you’ll eventually crack the code. And when you do, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that’s second to none.
Be sure to check out our other articles for more tips on solving the NYT crossword puzzle. Happy solving!
FAQ about "This Guy Gets It" NYT Crossword
What is the answer to "This guy gets it"?
- The answer is HE GETS ME.
What is the hint for "This guy gets it"?
- The hint is In on the joke.
What is the length of the answer?
- The answer is 6 letters.
What is the difficulty level of the crossword?
- The crossword is considered to be medium.
What is the date of the crossword?
- The crossword was published on January 5, 2023.
What is the theme of the crossword?
- The theme of the crossword is Jokes.
What is the constructor of the crossword?
- The constructor of the crossword is Matthew Sewell.
What is the grid size of the crossword?
- The grid size of the crossword is 15×15.
What is the number of black squares in the grid?
- The number of black squares in the grid is 37.
What is the rating of the crossword?
- The crossword has a rating of 3.8 out of 5.
