Dwarf planet that's only about half the width of the United States nyt crossword clue

The clue "Dwarf planet that's only about half the width of the United States" is seeking the name of a specific dwarf planet. Given that you are looking for a dwarf planet known for its relatively small size, the answer is likely **'Pluto'**. Here's how I derived the answer: 1. **Identifying Key Details**: The clue specifically mentions "dwarf planet," which immediately points towards known dwarf planets in our solar system, namely Pluto, Eris, Haumea, and Makemake. However, among these, only Pluto is commonly associated with being significantly smaller. 2. **Analyzing the Size Reference**: The clue states that the dwarf planet is "only about half the width of the United States." The width of the contiguous United States is approximately 3,000 miles at its widest point. Pluto's diameter is about 1,500 miles, which fits the description provided in the clue. 3. **Contextual Knowledge**: Pluto was reclassified from a planet to a dwarf planet by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in 2006. It is a well-recognized celestial body that ties into various cultural and scientific discussions. In summary, for this crossword clue, the answer is **'Pluto'** because it is the only dwarf planet whose size correlates with the description in the clue, specifically its diameter being close to half that of the width of the United States. ### Tips for Solving Similar Clues: - **Focus on Keywords**: Key nouns, such as "dwarf planet," should direct you to a specific category (in this case, celestial objects). - **Use Comparisons**: If the clue includes a comparison (like size, distance, or time), use that to narrow down your options. - **Contextual Knowledge is Key**: Familiarize yourself with common entries across multiple puzzles, as certain words or themes recur often. - **Check Crosses**: When unsure of an answer, inspect the intersecting words in the crossword for additional letters that verify or suggest a potential correct answer. Happy puzzling!