By Bemi Brooks 
You’re nestled in your favorite chair, pencil in hand, tackling the latest New York Times crossword. You scan the clues, feeling that familiar rhythm… until you hit a wall. Two simple letters: XL. You know it means “extra large,” but that doesn’t fit. What gives? If you’ve ever been stumped by this tiny titan of a clue, you’re not alone. The XL NYT crossword clue is a classic example of the playful, sometimes mischievous, wordplay that makes solving so rewarding. Let’s peel back the layers of this compact puzzle. Let’s explore.
At its heart, the XL NYT crossword clue is a masterclass in efficiency. With just two characters, the setter (the puzzle’s creator) packs a double meaning, challenging you to choose the right path. It almost always points to one of two answers.
This is the most common trick in the book. In the system of Roman numerals, “X” represents 10 and “L” represents 50. The placement of the smaller numeral before the larger one indicates subtraction: 50 – 10 = 40.
- How it works: The clue “XL” is a direct instruction to think of the number forty.
- The Answer: The word FORTY.
- Real-World Example: You might see a clue like “XL” with a answer length of (5). This is a dead giveaway for FORTY.
This is where the puzzle gets really clever. Sometimes, the clue isn’t about what “XL” means, but how it sounds. If you say “XL” out loud, it sounds exactly like the word “excel.”
- How it works: The clue “XL” is a homophone indicator, asking you to think of the word that shares its pronunciation.
- The Answer: The word EXCEL (meaning to do well or surpass).
- Real-World Example: A clue might be “XL, in a way” with an answer length of (5), gently nudging you toward the phonetic interpretation.
Here’s a quick-reference table to keep it straight:
| Clue Variation | Likely Interpretation | Common Answer | Answer Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| “XL” | Roman Numeral for 40 | FORTY | 5 letters |
| “XL, in a way” | Sounds like “excel” | EXCEL | 5 letters |
| “Size XL?” | Pun on size/number | FORTY | 5 letters |
Don’t let two letters intimidate you. Next time you see XL in your NYT crossword, run through this quick mental checklist:
- Check the Answer Length. This is your biggest hint. If it’s (5), you know you’re dealing with a five-letter word, so it’s almost certainly FORTY or EXCEL.
- Look at the Clue’s Wording. Is it just naked “XL”? It’s probably FORTY. Does it have a qualifier like “in a way,” “on a form,” or “sound of success?” That’s a strong hint toward the homophone EXCEL.
- Cross-Reference. Use the crossing letters (the words that intersect your answer) to help you decide. If you have a few letters filled in, they will instantly tell you if the word is F-O-R-T-Y or E-X-C-E-L.
The XL NYT crossword clue is so beloved because it embodies the spirit of crosswords: it’s a tiny riddle. It rewards solvers for their flexibility and knowledge, asking them to see beyond the surface (an clothing size) to the mechanics of language beneath (numerals and sounds).
This kind of wordplay isn’t meant to be unfair; it’s an invitation to a game. It’s the setter saying, “I know you know this, but can you see it from this angle?” Cracking it provides that little “aha!” moment of satisfaction that keeps solvers coming back day after day.
So, what can you do with this new knowledge?
- Embrace the Double Meaning: Now that you’re in on the secret, you’ll never be fooled by an XL clue again.
- Listen to the Clue: Read clues aloud if you’re stuck. Phonetic tricks become instantly obvious.
- Become a Crossword Detective: Apply this same mindset to other short clues. “C” might be a musical note or 100, and “IV” could be four or an intravenous drip.
The humble XL is a perfect gateway into understanding the clever, joyful world of crossword construction. What’s the last crossword clue that gave you a satisfying “aha!” moment?
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I saw “XL” in a clue but the answer was neither FORTY nor EXCEL. Why?
While exceedingly rare, a creative setter might use “XL” in a different way, perhaps as an abbreviation for “Extra Light” or part of a longer phrase. Always let the crossing words be your final guide.
Is the “XL” clue more common in the daily crossword or the larger Sunday puzzle?
It’s a versatile clue that appears across all puzzle sizes, but its compact nature makes it a favorite in the smaller, quicker Mini Crossword.
Are there other Roman numeral clues I should know?
Absolutely! Common ones include L for 50, C for 100, D for 500, M for 1000, and IV for 4.
What’s the best way to get better at spotting these wordplay tricks?
Practice! The more puzzles you do, the more you’ll recognize the setters’ favorite devices. And don’t be afraid to look up an answer to understand the “why” behind it.
Does “XL” ever literally mean “extra large” in a crossword?
It’s very uncommon, as “extra large” itself is too long for a short clue. The wordplay interpretations are almost always the intended solution.