June 4, 2026 Daily / 53A / 3 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Crossword
Discouraging words NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test a 3-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue: Discouraging words, first identify whether the wording is direct, referential, abbreviated, or playful. This one is best treated as a direct clue.
- Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test a 3-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
- At 3 letters, this is a compact entry, so one crossing letter can change the solve quickly.
- This clue appears at 53A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
NOS
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
NOS is the 3-letter answer for the clue: Discouraging words. The clue works as a direct definition or close paraphrase of the answer. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 53A, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: NOS in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _.
- Clue type: Direct clue.
- NOS has 3 letters, matching the required slot for 53A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using NOS
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all NOS clues Position 53A
Answer length 3
Puzzle type Daily
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History
Clue History
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