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