June 15, 2026 Daily / 10D / 7 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Crossword
False reason given for doing something 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 7-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue: False reason given for doing something, 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 7-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
- The answer slot has 7 letters, which narrows the clue to a specific grid shape.
- This clue appears at 10D in the NYT Crossword, so check the Across crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
PRETEXT
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
PRETEXT is the 7-letter answer for the clue: False reason given for doing something. The clue works as a direct definition or close paraphrase of the answer. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 10D, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: PRETEXT in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Direct clue.
- PRETEXT has 7 letters, matching the required slot for 10D.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using PRETEXT
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all PRETEXT clues Position 10D
Answer length 7
Puzzle type Daily
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History
Clue History
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