Wordplay
Wordplay Notes
For a blank clue, the missing entry should make the full phrase sound natural, not merely match a dictionary definition.
NYT Crossword
___-fi NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
Read the phrase aloud and look for a 3-letter entry that completes the blank naturally.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
Classify this as a fill-in-the-blank and verify that the 3 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
- The blank is doing most of the work here. Look for a 3-letter entry that completes the phrase naturally.
- At 3 letters, this is a compact entry, so one crossing letter can change the solve quickly.
- For a blank clue, the missing entry should make the full phrase sound natural, not merely match a dictionary definition.
- Short entries are sensitive to crossings; one wrong letter can produce several plausible-looking answers.
- This clue appears at 57A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
SCI
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
SCI is the 3-letter answer for "___-fi" in the NYT Crossword. The clue is a fill-in-the-blank phrase, so the answer works by completing the wording naturally while matching the grid slot at 57A.
- Grid entry: SCI in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _.
- Clue type: Fill-in-the-blank.
- This is Across at 57A, so use the Down crossings to confirm SCI.
- SCI has 3 letters, matching the required slot for 57A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using SCI
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all SCI clues Position 57A
Answer length 3
Puzzle type Daily
Solver context
Extra Notes for This Clue
Trap
Common Trap
Short entries are sensitive to crossings; one wrong letter can produce several plausible-looking answers.
Crossings
Crossing Notes
This is Across at 57A, so use the Down crossings to confirm SCI.
Editor note
Editorial Note
Classify this as a fill-in-the-blank and verify that the 3 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
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History
Clue History
May 5, 2026 Daily / 57A / 3 letters
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