This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (42 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Tuesday puzzles are a step up from Monday but still mostly straightforward.
How to read this clue
This is a fill-in-the-blank clue: the answer completes the phrase, title or quotation.
Answer length: 4 squares
First letter
D _ _ _
First and last letters
D _ _ E
Show the answer
About the answer
DIRE as a word: Requiring action to prevent bad consequences: urgent, pressing; Expressing bad consequences: dreadful; dismal.
DIRE has been an answer 2 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since March 31, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
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