May 21, 2026 Daily / 44A / 3 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Crossword
"Bad" beginning NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
This clue leans on a named person, work, title, or quoted phrase. Identify the reference, then fit it into a 3-letter slot.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue: "Bad" beginning, first identify whether the wording is direct, referential, abbreviated, or playful. This one is best treated as a reference clue.
- This clue leans on a named person, work, title, or quoted phrase. Identify the reference, then fit it into a 3-letter slot.
- At 3 letters, this is a compact entry, so one crossing letter can change the solve quickly.
- This clue appears at 44A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
MAL
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
MAL is the 3-letter answer for the clue: "Bad" beginning. The clue points to a specific reference rather than a broad synonym, which is why exact spelling matters. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 44A, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: MAL in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _.
- Clue type: Reference clue.
- MAL has 3 letters, matching the required slot for 44A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using MAL
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all MAL clues Position 44A
Answer length 3
Puzzle type Daily
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History
Clue History
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