What is a Ladder’s Counterpart? Here’s the Answer

As a devoted crossword enthusiast, I always look forward to the challenge that The New York Times Mini Crossword brings! On July 29th, one of the clues had me scratching my head – it was asking for a ladder’s counterpart. To help fellow puzzlers who might be stuck, I’ve put together some hints and the answer to this tricky Down 1 clue. So let’s see if we can conquer this crossword together!

Instead of focusing on ascending a ladder, which is usually associated with moving upward, it’s crucial for players to think in the opposite direction when solving this puzzle.

Hint 1

Instead of being called the “counterpart” of a ladder, it might be more straightforward for puzzle game enthusiasts to envision it as an item used by someone who has climbed a ladder and needs to return to their original position.

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Hint 2

The solution to this puzzle might be perplexing since household users typically don’t utilize what’s often called its counterpart. This tool is more frequently found in environments such as high-rise structures like hotels or apartment buildings, postal sorting facilities, or during construction or demolition processes.

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Hint 3:

In modern usage, the term “ladder” is more frequently applied to things rather than individuals, although the idea of a solution or response being linked with a ladder still holds true in certain contexts.

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Hint 4:

Ladders and their counterparts have a connection to classic board games.

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Hint 5:

It’s more straightforward for people living in the U.S. to predict what a ladder’s equivalent might be, compared to individuals residing in the UK or other countries worldwide.

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What is a Ladder’s Counterpart Answer

If you’re still struggling, don’t worry, others might be too. This question can be quite challenging. If you find yourself at a loss and seeking the solution, look beneath the picture for the right term.

The counterpart of a ladder is a CHUTE.

In this particular context, chutes refer to artificial passageways designed for swiftly guiding items downwards due to gravity. These are commonly used for tasks such as sending mail or laundry from a high level in a building towards a storage area at the base. Gamers might also recall the term from the Milton Bradley game, “Chutes and Ladders,” which is essentially a westernized version of the British classic, “Snakes and Ladders.” However, it’s worth noting that this game has roots that go back much further than even its UK adaptation; it was initially developed in ancient India and did not reach the UK until the late 1800s.

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2025-07-30 02:05