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
In the ___ (intensely focused) 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 4-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 4 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
- The blank is doing most of the work here. Look for a 4-letter entry that completes the phrase naturally.
- The answer slot has 4 letters, which narrows the clue to a specific grid shape.
- For a blank clue, the missing entry should make the full phrase sound natural, not merely match a dictionary definition.
- This clue appears at 23A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
ZONE
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
ZONE is the 4-letter answer for "In the ___ (intensely focused)" 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 23A.
- Grid entry: ZONE in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Fill-in-the-blank.
- This is Across at 23A, so use the Down crossings to confirm ZONE.
- ZONE has 4 letters, matching the required slot for 23A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using ZONE
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all ZONE clues Position 23A
Answer length 4
Puzzle type Daily
Solver context
Extra Notes for This Clue
Crossings
Crossing Notes
This is Across at 23A, so use the Down crossings to confirm ZONE.
Editor note
Editorial Note
Classify this as a fill-in-the-blank and verify that the 4 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
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History
Clue History
April 29, 2026 Daily / 23A / 4 letters
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