The New York Times Crossword · 17-Across · 10 letters
Beset by impossible circumstances The New York Times Crossword clue
Editorially reviewed August 22, 2026
Match the meaning
Get the exact answer or take one hint.
Meaning cue
Look for a ten-letter Latin-derived phrase beginning with IN and meaning at the utmost limit.
Show the answer and explanationOne click · no signup
Answer
Why it fits
The Latin-derived phrase IN EXTREMIS describes being at the point of greatest difficulty or danger. Entered without its space, it matches someone beset by impossible circumstances.
Continue this puzzleDish such as Germany's hasenpfeffer →What narrows the clue
The formal wording suggests a borrowed phrase rather than a casual English adjective.
Answer meaning
In extremis means in an extremely difficult, desperate, or final situation.
Where this clue appeared
17-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for August 22, 2026.
Browse selected The New York Times Crossword clues →More selected clues from The New York Times Crossword · August 22, 2026
Continue with independently explained clues from the same puzzle date. This is a selected learning set, not a complete answer list.
See INEXTREMIS meaning and common clue patterns →
Solve the next clue here.
Paste another clue, add the letters you trust, and keep solving without returning to search.
This independently written explanation is for learning and clue analysis. Crossword Clue Tutor is not affiliated with or endorsed by The New York Times Crossword or its publisher.