This phrase seemingly refers to a crossword clue or reply within the New York Occasions crossword puzzle. It suggests a class of people who’ve deviated from an accepted ethical or authorized path. The clue itself is likely to be extra particular, hinting at criminals, sinners, or just those that have made errors. An instance is likely to be a clue like “Erring souls” with a solution like “STRAYERS.”
Crossword puzzles regularly make use of such categorical clues, difficult solvers to assume broadly and think about synonyms, antonyms, and associated ideas. The sort of clue depends on the solver’s understanding of social norms and customary figures of speech. The New York Occasions crossword, recognized for its complexity and intelligent wordplay, usually makes use of this kind of misdirection to extend the puzzle’s issue and have interaction solvers on a deeper stage. Such clues may be instructional, exposing solvers to new vocabulary and cultural references whereas additionally reinforcing current information.
