Something "played" to avoid class nyt crossword clue

The clue "Something 'played' to avoid class" hints at a phrase or word that can be associated with evading or skipping a class, usually in an educational context. In crossword puzzle clues, terms like 'played' can have double meanings—referring either to an actual game or to a more figurative use. In this case, the answer you're looking for is likely **"hooky."** The phrase "playing hooky" means to skip school or to avoid attending classes, which aligns perfectly with the concept of avoiding class. ### Breakdown of the solving process: 1. **Identify Keywords**: The important parts of the clue are "played" and "avoid class." 2. **Consider Double Meanings**: The word "played" could refer to an activity or a term commonly used in relation to school. 3. **Recall Common Phrases**: "Playing hooky" is a known idiom that directly relates to skipping school. 4. **Word Length**: If there are any letters you know from intersecting clues, you would confirm that "hooky" fits. ### Tips for Solving Crossword Clues: - Look for common idioms or phrases that might fit the clue. - Consider synonyms that relate closely to the keywords in the clue. - Pay attention to puns or wordplay that crosses over between contexts, especially in casual or slang usage. - Always keep a mental archive of common crossword terms, as certain phrases reappear frequently. This technique can help reinforce your solving skills as you familiarize yourself with the conventions in crossword puzzles. Happy puzzling!