5 Down

NYT Daily • August 17, 2025

Obstruction to teamwork, maybe

Answer:

EGO

Hint:

Think of the three-letter word that often puts "I" before the group’s success.

Explanation:

An "obstruction to teamwork" hints at something that gets in the way of collaboration, and "maybe" signals this is a playful take. "Ego" fits because an inflated sense of self can disrupt group harmony—people with big egos often prioritize their own ideas over teamwork. The clue plays on the common phrase "ego trip" or the idea that pride can be a barrier to working well with others. It’s a straightforward definition with a slight nudge toward the psychological side of team dynamics.

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