41 Across

NYT Daily ? October 3, 2025

Staggering blows?

Answer:

GALES

Hint:

You might find these applicable to feeling sunshine rainbows in a less gentle way, or as a way to break down a storm’s worst moments.

Explanation:

"Staggering blows" hints at strong winds—gales—which can literally make things stagger or wobble. The word "blows" plays double duty, meaning both punches (as in physical hits) and gusts of wind. It’s a clever twist where the clue sounds like it’s about fighting but actually points to stormy weather.

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General solving tip

A question mark usually flags wordplay or a non-literal reading. Expect a pun, a twist, or a definition that's one step removed from the surface meaning.

More tips → General Hints