New York Times Crossword Community

The term for the unused squares in the puzzle remains the same for insiders and outsiders, reflecting common terminology worldwide.

Outsiders say 'Puzzle Clue' whereas insiders simply say 'Clue' emphasizing their familiarity with the concept and frequent discussion.

Casual solvers say 'check answers,' while insiders use 'crosscheck' referring to confirming puzzle answers internally or through trusted sources.

This specialized jargon term refers to obscure or common crossword answer words known primarily by solvers globally, not typically used by outsiders.

Both outsiders and insiders use 'Grid' in English universally to refer to the crossword's layout of squares; the term is jargon common in the community.

The concept of a puzzle's 'theme' is known and labeled the same way by all, as a key structural element of the puzzle.

Both outsiders and insiders use 'wordplay' globally for the clue style involving puns or tricky meanings; it is a shared jargon term.

Outsiders say 'cheating' when someone looks up answers, but insiders humorously call it 'Google-fu,' acknowledging common research rather than ethical breach.

Outside solvers say 'hard puzzle,' but experienced solvers may call a very challenging puzzle a 'Ninja Puzzle' to reflect its difficulty level.

Casual observers might call someone a 'crossword solver,' but insiders refer to themselves as 'solvers,' indicating belonging.

Casual observers refer to it simply as a crossword puzzle, while insiders affectionately call it 'The Puzzle' as a shorthand reflecting daily routine and reverence.

Outsiders call Will Shortz 'Editor,' but insiders fondly nickname him 'The Boss' as a mark of respect and familiarity.

When referring to digital solving platforms, both outsiders and insiders use this English term without translation globally.

The larger and more complex Sunday edition is referred to the same way globally by insiders and outsiders alike.