This phrase doubtless 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 could be extra particular, hinting at criminals, sinners, or just those that have made errors. An instance could be a clue like “Erring souls” with a solution like “STRAYERS.”
Crossword puzzles regularly make use of such categorical clues, difficult solvers to suppose broadly and think about synonyms, antonyms, and associated ideas. One of these 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, typically makes use of such a misdirection to extend the puzzle’s issue and have interaction solvers on a deeper stage. Such clues might be instructional, exposing solvers to new vocabulary and cultural references whereas additionally reinforcing present information.
