"Wh-" word that follows "white" nyt crossword clue

The clue "Wh- word that follows 'white'" is looking for a word that starts with "Wh" and is typically used in association with "white." The most common answer that fits this description is "whale." Here's the reasoning process: 1. **Understanding the clue**: The clue specifies a "Wh-" word, which gives us a strong starting point. We're looking for a term that is commonly used with the word "white." 2. **Associations**: "White whale" is a well-known term, most famously associated with Herman Melville's novel "Moby-Dick," where the white whale represents an elusive goal or obsession. 3. **Letter constraints**: If any letters were pre-filled in the crossword, the word "whale" has five letters, and its structure begins with "Wh." As a result, "whale" fits the clue perfectly. ### Tips for Solving Crossword Clues 1. **Look for Key Phrases**: In phrases with specifications like "that follows," think about how words are commonly paired or associated. 2. **Use Knowledge Beyond the Clue**: Literary references, idioms, and cultural knowledge can be immensely helpful. 3. **Consider Word Length**: Always double-check how many letters the answer should have, as this can significantly narrow down your options. 4. **Think about Synonyms or Common Phrases**: Sometimes the answer may not directly match commonly known phrases; consider variations or synonyms. 5. **Cross-Referencing Letters**: If you have other intersecting words that share letters, use those to confirm or refine your guesses. These techniques can often help in forming more structured guesses and can improve your overall strategy when tackling crossword puzzles.