This phrase refers to the usage of “crunch time,” a interval of intense work and stress to fulfill deadlines, as a clue in crossword puzzles. The clue is perhaps offered instantly, reminiscent of “Interval of intense work” or not directly by means of synonyms like “important interval,” “deadline rush,” and even alluding to the traumatic nature of such durations. An instance may very well be a clue like “Hectic time for a software program developer” with the reply being CRUNCHTIME. This reply might then be used as half of a bigger puzzle construction.
Crossword puzzles require solvers to attract upon a broad vary of data, together with idiomatic expressions. Incorporating terminology like “crunch time” helps broaden the vocabulary of solvers and exposes them to totally different features {of professional} and colloquial language. Traditionally, crossword puzzles have served as each leisure and academic instruments, and the inclusion of such up to date phrases displays the evolving nature of language and its utilization. Moreover, the usage of expressions associated to work stress can add a layer of relatability for a lot of solvers.