May 22, 2026 Daily / 23A / 3 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Crossword
Sign of desperation 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 3-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue: Sign of desperation, 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 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.
- This clue appears at 23A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
SOS
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
SOS is the 3-letter answer for the clue: Sign of desperation. The clue works as a direct definition or close paraphrase of the answer. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 23A, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: SOS in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _.
- Clue type: Direct clue.
- SOS has 3 letters, matching the required slot for 23A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using SOS
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all SOS clues Position 23A
Answer length 3
Puzzle type Daily
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History
Clue History
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