May 22, 2026 Daily / 18A / 16 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Crossword
Qualifier to an embarrassing question 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 16-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue: Qualifier to an embarrassing question, 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 16-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
- At 16 letters, this is a longer entry; look for phrase structure as well as a direct definition.
- This clue appears at 18A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
ASKINGFORAFRIEND
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
ASKINGFORAFRIEND is the 16-letter answer for the clue: Qualifier to an embarrassing question. The clue works as a direct definition or close paraphrase of the answer. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 18A, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: ASKINGFORAFRIEND in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Direct clue.
- ASKINGFORAFRIEND has 16 letters, matching the required slot for 18A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using ASKINGFORAFRIEND
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all ASKINGFORAFRIEND clues Position 18A
Answer length 16
Puzzle type Daily
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History
Clue History
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