Fencing swords nyt crossword clue

The crossword clue "Fencing swords" commonly leads to the answer **"epées"**. Here’s how I arrived at that conclusion: 1. **Identifying the context**: The clue specifically refers to "fencing," which is the sport of fighting with swords. This immediately narrows down the possibilities to types of swords used in that sport. 2. **Types of Fencing Swords**: In fencing, there are three primary types of swords: épée, foil, and sabre. However, the term "swords" in plural suggests that we are looking for a plural form of a specific type. 3. **Plural Form**: Since "swords" is plural, the term "épée" needs to be converted to its plural form, which is "épées." 4. **Letter Structure**: If you have the letters filled in, especially if the answer length is indicated (4 letters here), it fits perfectly with "épées," confirming that it is both relevant and fits the crossword requirements. ### Tips for Solving Related Clues: - **Focus on the category of the clue**: Recognizing whether the clue pertains to a sport, literature, history, etc., can significantly help narrow down your options. - **Consider synonyms or alternative terms**: For example, in sports, there may be multiple relevant words or jargon. - **Keep an eye on the plurality**: When the clue suggests a plural form, ensure the answer reflects that. - **Use cross-checking**: If you have letters from intersecting clues, use them to further confirm the potential answers. - **Familiarize with common crossword terms**: Some words frequently appear in crossword puzzles; knowing these can often give you a leg up. In future clues, keep a similar strategy in mind, examining both the context (fencing) and any specific requirements (plurality, letter count).