Beat handily, in slang nyt crossword clue

The clue "Beat handily, in slang" is looking for a word or phrase that means to defeat someone easily or decisively, expressed in informal or colloquial language. To break it down: 1. **Focus on "Beat handily"**: This suggests a strong victory, perhaps indicating the word has to do with winning decisively. 2. **Consider the context of "in slang"**: This hints that the answer might not be a formal word but rather a casual or informal term often used in day-to-day conversations. Given these considerations, one common slang term that fits this clue is "wax." **Why "wax"?** - In slang, "to wax" someone can mean to defeat them soundly. - It's used in contexts such as "I waxed him in that game" to imply a thorough victory. **Letter Count**: Ensure this fits the letter count provided in the crossword puzzle. For example, if the answer is supposed to be a 4-letter word, "wax" fits perfectly. ### Tips for Solving: - **Know Common Slang**: Familiarize yourself with slang terms in vernaculars related to sports, gaming, or competition; many will often show up in crossword puzzles. - **Contextual Thinking**: Think about the context in which the beat is occurring. Is it a game? An argument? It helps to narrow down possible slang. - **Cross-Referencing**: If you have intersecting letters from other clues, use them to validate your guess and change if necessary. By using these steps, you can logically deduce answers even if you're unsure at first!