44 Across

NYT Daily ? September 27, 2025

It's not an option

Answer:

NEED

Hint:

Think of something you can't do without—it's more than just a want, but not quite a demand.

Explanation:

The clue "It's not an option" plays on the idea that something mandatory isn’t a choice. The word "need" fits because when you need something, it’s essential—not optional. The phrasing is a straightforward definition, but the twist lies in framing "need" as the opposite of having a choice.

More Clues from This Puzzle

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General solving tip

Location/language tags (in Paris, in México, in Roma) often want an answer in that language. Try the basic word in French/Spanish/Italian, confirmed by crosses.

More tips → General Hints