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in which opposites attract nyt

"In Which Opposites Attract" refers to a New York Times crossword clue. The answer is IONIC BOND , a chemistry term describing electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions, like the positive and negative poles that pull them together in compounds such as sodium chloride.

Crossword Context

This clue appeared in a recent NYT puzzle, fitting the classic wordplay style where scientific concepts cleverly illustrate idioms. Solvers often encounter similar puns tying physics or chemistry to romance tropes—think magnets or charges drawing near. It's last noted in NYT records around mid-2020s puzzles, sparking forum buzz on sites like WordDB for its elegant simplicity.

Why It Fits Perfectly

  • Opposites : Cations (positive ions) and anions (negative ions) are literal opposites.
  • Attract : They form bonds via electromagnetic force, creating stable molecules.
  • NYT Signature : The Times loves interdisciplinary clues; this one blends pop culture ("opposites attract" from songs like Paula Abdul's hit) with science, challenging casual solvers while delighting enthusiasts.

Imagine a puzzle grid where black squares mimic ionic lattices—pure genius. Trending discussions on Reddit and crossword forums highlight how such clues endure, with players sharing "aha!" moments over coffee.

Cultural Echoes

The phrase echoes beyond puzzles: A 2003 NYT article debunked romantic "opposites attract" myths, showing people pair with similars. Yet, a 2019 piece celebrated a real-life couple's 50-year bond despite differences. Puzzles keep the trope alive, fueling viral solves on YouTube.

TL;DR : "In which opposites attract" = IONIC BOND (NYT crossword answer). Timeless wit meets science.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.