Declare Invalid, as a Marriage” in the NYT Crossword: Unpacking the Clue
The New York Times Crossword is a beloved daily challenge for many puzzle enthusiasts. Among its clues, those related to legal or formal procedures, such as “Declare invalid, as a marriage,” often pique the curiosity of solvers. This particular clue, which recently appeared in the NYT Mini Crossword, requires some understanding of legal terminology, particularly related to marriage.
The Clue: “Declare Invalid, as a Marriage”
When a marriage is declared invalid, it typically refers to a legal process where the union is considered null and void. This process is often known as annulment. Unlike a divorce, which ends a legally valid marriage, an annulment treats the marriage as if it never existed in the first place. The term “annul” is therefore the most common answer to the crossword clue “Declare invalid, as a marriage.”
Understanding Annulment
To fully grasp why “annul” fits the clue, it’s helpful to understand what annulment entails. An annulment is a legal procedure that declares a marriage null and void, as though it never happened. Various reasons might lead to an annulment, including:
- Fraud or Misrepresentation: If one party was deceived into the marriage under false pretenses.
- Bigamy: If one spouse was already legally married to someone else at the time of the marriage.
- Lack of Consent: If one or both parties were not capable of giving informed consent, perhaps due to mental incapacity or being underage.
- Coercion: If one party was forced or pressured into the marriage.
The Crossword Puzzle Context
In the context of the NYT Mini Crossword, the clue “Declare invalid, as a marriage” is typically a straightforward one, especially if you’re familiar with legal jargon. However, it can be tricky for those who are not, or for solvers who might be thinking too literally. The answer is usually a five-letter word—annul—which precisely fits the definition of making a marriage invalid.
Why Crossword Clues Like This Are Tricky
Crossword puzzles often use wordplay, abbreviations, and sometimes even misleading phrasing to challenge the solver. For example, a clue might seem to suggest a more complex legal term or process, but the answer is often simpler than expected. In this case, “declare invalid” is a direct reference to the act of annulment, but without the use of the word “annul,” it requires the solver to think of synonyms or related legal terms.
Tips for Solving Similar Clues
- Familiarize Yourself with Legal Terms: Many crossword puzzles, especially those from the New York Times, frequently use legal terminology. Knowing words like “annul,” “revoke,” “void,” and “nullify” can be incredibly helpful.
- Think About Word Length: The number of letters in the answer is usually a giveaway. For “Declare invalid, as a marriage,” you’re looking for a five-letter word. This narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Consider the Context: If the puzzle is the NYT Mini, expect shorter, more concise answers. The clue might seem complex, but the answer often isn’t.
- Cross-Check with Other Clues: If you’re unsure, look at the intersecting words. This can help confirm whether your guess is correct or guide you to the right answer.
Conclusion
The clue “Declare invalid, as a marriage” in the NYT Mini Crossword is a classic example of how the puzzle can blend legal language with wordplay to challenge solvers. The answer, annul, is a direct reference to the legal process of making a marriage null and void. With a bit of practice and familiarity with common crossword terms, clues like this become much easier to decipher, adding to the fun and satisfaction of completing the puzzle.
