NYT Daily • August 3, 2025
Lower oneself
Answer:
DEIGN
Hint:
["Here’s a helpful hint for the clue **\"Lower oneself\"** with the answer **\"DEIGN\"**:\n\n*\"To condescend to do something, as if it's beneath you.\"*\n\nThis hint:\n- Focuses on the **meaning** of \"deign\" (condescending or lowering oneself) without repeating the original clue.\n- Avoids giving away the answer directly but guides the solver toward the idea of reluctant or superior action.\n- Is easier than the original clue but still requires some thought to connect it to \"deign.\"\n\nWould you like any adjustments to the tone or difficulty?"]
Explanation:
The clue **"Lower oneself"** leads to the answer **"DEIGN"** through a combination of definition and wordplay. - **Definition:** "Deign" means to condescend or lower oneself to do something, often implying a sense of superiority or reluctance. - **Wordplay:** The word "lower" in the clue hints at the idea of descending or reducing one's status, which aligns with the meaning of "deign." Additionally, "deign" can be broken down phonetically to sound like "dain," which might subtly evoke the idea of "deigning" or lowering oneself. Thus, the clue cleverly uses the definition of "deign" while also playing on the idea of lowering one's position or attitude.