NYT Daily • August 3, 2025
Sneakily exploits
Answer:
GAMES
Hint:
["Hint: *They might involve strategy or deception, and you often \"play\" them.*\n\nThis hint guides the solver toward the idea of \"games\" by emphasizing the playful or manipulative aspect without directly stating the answer. It also subtly reinforces the connection to \"exploits\" and \"sneakily\" through the idea of strategy and deception."]
Explanation:
The clue **"Sneakily exploits"** leads to the answer **"GAMES"** through a clever play on words. - **"Exploits"** can refer to achievements or feats, but it can also mean taking advantage of something, often in a cunning or underhanded way. - **"Sneakily"** suggests deception or trickery, hinting at the idea of playing games in a sly or manipulative manner. - **"Games"** can mean literal games, but it can also imply manipulation or trickery (e.g., "mind games" or "playing games" with someone). Thus, the answer **"GAMES"** fits because it captures the idea of exploiting situations in a sneaky or deceptive way. The wordplay relies on the double meaning of "games" as both recreational activities and manipulative tactics.