The clue "___ got mail" is likely looking for a specific phrase or term that completes the sentence, and it typically refers to a well-known phrase from pop culture regarding electronic communication.
The most common answer associated with this clue is **"You've"**, resulting in the full phrase "You've got mail." This phrase was popularized by the AOL email service in the late 1990s and early 2000s, becoming a cultural reference point for receiving email notifications.
### Breakdown of the Process:
1. **Identifying Context**: The clue indicates a phrase that suggests the arrival of an email, leading me to think of popular phrases or catchphrases related to mail or communication.
2. **Familiar Phrases**: I recall that "You've got mail" was a catchphrase associated with AOL, making it the most likely candidate.
3. **Letter Count**: If you have a letter count (for example, if the known letters fit in with "You've"), it further confirms this as the answer.
### Tips for Solving Similar Clues:
- **Think of Common Phrases**: Many crossword clues rely on well-known phrases or idioms. Knowing popular culture references can help.
- **Contextual Associations**: Consider the context of the clue. Is it modern, historical, literary? This will guide your thinking toward the kind of answer you need.
- **Use your knowledge of language and wordplay**: Some clues might be playfully misleading, so considering synonyms or playful alternatives may yield different results.
With a solid understanding of cultural phrases and context, you're better equipped to solve crossword clues effectively!