If you’re a crossword puzzle enthusiast, there’s a good chance you’ve found yourself puzzled by a clue like “Hawaii and Tennessee” in the New York Times (NYT) Crossword. This clue, while deceptively simple, has sparked curiosity and conversation across crossword communities and casual solvers alike. So, what exactly does “Hawaii and Tennessee” mean in the context of a NYT crossword clue, and why does it keep popping up?
Let’s break it down and explore how crossword clues work, why this one is special, and how you can solve more of these like a pro.
The Basics of Crossword Clues
Before diving into the specific clue, it’s helpful to understand how the NYT constructs its crossword puzzles. Clues can be literal, punny, or cryptic, and part of the challenge—and the fun—is figuring out which direction the puzzle is taking.
In this case, “Hawaii and Tennessee” looks straightforward. It’s just the names of two U.S. states. But if you think like a crossword constructor, the real answer is probably more abstract.
What Does “Hawaii and Tennessee” Mean in a NYT Crossword?
The answer to the clue “Hawaii and Tennessee” in many NYT puzzles is often “STATES” or “NONCONTIGUOUS” depending on the puzzle’s theme and the number of letters required.
Let’s look at a few interpretations that crossword solvers have encountered:
1. STATES
This is the most direct answer. Hawaii and Tennessee are both U.S. states. Simple, right? But sometimes, that simplicity is exactly what throws solvers off. Crossword constructors often use generalizations in clues to nudge solvers into overthinking.
2. NONCONTIGUOUS
This is a trickier and more clever answer. Hawaii is famously noncontiguous—it’s separated from the mainland United States. Tennessee, however, is contiguous. So, what gives? Well, sometimes the clue is actually “Hawaii and Alaska,” which makes the answer “NONCONTIGUOUS.” This points to how closely solvers need to read each clue—similar clues can have very different answers based on one or two words.
3. POSTAL CODES or ABBRS
Another angle NYT puzzles love to play with is abbreviations. For instance, clues like “Hawaii and Tennessee (Abbr.)” might point to “ST ABBRS” or “USPS CODES”, referencing their two-letter postal abbreviations (HI and TN). Again, context and puzzle theme are everything.
Why Clues Like “Hawaii and Tennessee” Appear Often
The New York Times crossword, especially in its early-week editions (Monday–Wednesday), often relies on accessible geography, pop culture, and basic knowledge to appeal to a wide range of solvers. U.S. states are ideal fodder for this. Clues like “Hawaii and Tennessee”:
- Are universally recognizable
- Can lead to multiple clever answers
- Fit into a variety of puzzle themes
In themed crosswords, this clue might be part of a larger concept—like states with musical histories (Nashville and Hawaiian music) or states that start with vowels. You never know until you crack a few intersecting letters.
Tips for Solving Clues Like This
- Check the length – The number of letters in the answer is always a huge hint. “STATES” is six letters. “NONCONTIGUOUS” is 13.
- Look at cross clues – Use intersecting answers to confirm your guess. A clue like “Island instrument” crossing this one might point to “UKE,” confirming Hawaii’s musical heritage.
- Think theme – If it’s a Thursday puzzle or part of a special theme, consider the broader concept. Are all the clues about geography? Music? Travel?
- Beware the red herring – Just because both Hawaii and Tennessee are states doesn’t mean the answer is always that straightforward.
A Cultural Clue: Hawaii and Tennessee’s Shared Spotlight
Interestingly, both Hawaii and Tennessee are culturally rich and musically significant. Hawaii is known for its ukulele and slack-key guitar traditions, while Tennessee is the home of country and blues. Sometimes, NYT crosswords use these associations to throw solvers off or reward deeper thinking. A clue like “Home to hula and honky-tonk” might be more nuanced than it seems.
Final Thoughts
The clue “Hawaii and Tennessee” in the NYT crossword isn’t just about geography—it’s a great example of how simple clues can hide layered meanings. Whether the answer is “STATES,” “ABBRS,” “NONCONTIGUOUS,” or something trickier, solving it requires a mix of logic, knowledge, and lateral thinking.
So next time you see “Hawaii and Tennessee” in a crossword puzzle, don’t overthink it—but don’t underestimate it either. The New York Times crossword is famous for making solvers look twice, even at clues that seem obvious at first glance.
