Trap
Common Trap
Short entries are sensitive to crossings; one wrong letter can produce several plausible-looking answers.
NYT Crossword
Promise to pay NYT Crossword Clue
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Answer
Reveal the 3 letters answer
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IOU
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
IOU is the 3-letter answer for "Promise to pay" in the NYT Crossword. The wording acts as a direct definition or close paraphrase, and the crossing entries at 52A help confirm the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: IOU in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _.
- Clue type: Direct clue.
- This is Across at 52A, so use the Down crossings to confirm IOU.
- IOU has 3 letters, matching the required slot for 52A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using IOU
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all IOU cluesHint
Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test a 3-letter synonym or phrase.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
Classify this as a direct clue and verify that the 3 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
- 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.
- Short entries are sensitive to crossings; one wrong letter can produce several plausible-looking answers.
- This clue appears at 52A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Position 52A
Answer length 3
Puzzle type Daily
Solver context
Extra Notes for This Clue
Crossings
Crossing Notes
This is Across at 52A, so use the Down crossings to confirm IOU.
Editor note
Editorial Note
Classify this as a direct clue and verify that the 3 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
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History
Clue History
April 28, 2026 Daily / 52A / 3 letters
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