Coming across the clue I call dibs in a crossword puzzle can spark a mix of excitement and confusion. While the phrase is common in casual conversation, especially in North American English, identifying the right answer for the grid requires a blend of cultural familiarity and crossword-solving experience. Solvers might recognize the urgency and informal tone of the phrase, but the answer isn’t always immediately clear. Understanding the variations, context, and crossword conventions surrounding this clue can help you crack it quickly and confidently the next time it appears.
Understanding the Clue: I Call Dibs
What the Phrase Means
I call dibs is a colloquial expression used to claim something before others do. It’s most often heard among friends or siblings when someone wants to reserve the first turn, the front seat, or the last cookie. The tone is playful but assertive, and it carries the message: This is mine now.
Because of its informal nature, clues like I call dibs often require equally casual responses. Crossword constructors use these phrases to test your knowledge of idioms and conversational language.
Common Answers in Crossword Puzzles
The answer to I call dibs varies depending on the length and theme of the puzzle. However, one of the most common answers is:
- MEFIRST 7 letters
This answer perfectly captures the sentiment of I call dibs and fits many grid patterns. It’s casual, direct, and expressive just like the original phrase.
Other Possible Answers
Synonymous Phrases
While MEFIRST is the most standard crossword answer, others can appear depending on the puzzle’s difficulty and creativity:
- CALLEDIT Similar in meaning; implies prior claim
- ITSMINE A bold and direct way to say dibs
- DIBS In rare cases, the answer may be the exact word from the clue
When solving, you should always consider the number of boxes and cross-check letters from adjacent clues. A four-letter clue is more likely to be DIBS or MINE, while a seven-letter space will likely fit MEFIRST.
Why Crossword Constructors Love This Clue
Relatable and Playful
Phrases like I call dibs inject humor and relatability into crossword puzzles. They appeal to a broad audience and add a human element to an otherwise intellectual challenge.
Great for Conversational Tone
Crossword puzzles aren’t just about obscure facts and historical trivia. They also reflect real speech. Casual phrases like this allow constructors to mirror everyday dialogue, making puzzles feel more current and engaging.
Flexible Usage
This clue can fit multiple answers depending on context. It’s also adaptable to themed puzzles. For instance, a puzzle with a theme about childhood games or sibling rivalries might include this clue alongside others like You’re it! or No backsies!
Solving Strategies for Informal Clues
Focus on Tone and Language
If a clue feels casual or conversational, the answer probably will be too. Avoid thinking too literally. Instead, ask yourself: What would someone actually say in this situation?
Count the Squares
The number of letters is a big help. If you know the clue is I call dibs and the answer space has seven boxes, you can rule out shorter options like DIBS or MINE.
Check Intersections
Use letters from intersecting words to confirm or eliminate possibilities. For example, if the fourth letter is clearly F, that’s a strong indicator the answer could be MEFIRST.
Think Idiomatically
Crosswords often rely on idioms, slang, and cultural phrases. Train your mind to consider what phrases are commonly used in speech rather than formal language.
Examples in Published Crosswords
NYT Crossword
The New York Times Crossword has used I call dibs or similar clues to prompt answers like:
- MEFIRST (Common)
- CALLEDIT (In thematic grids)
Often, the clue will be placed in casual or humor-themed puzzles that reward players with a mix of wit and cultural awareness.
Other Crossword Sources
Puzzles in newspapers like the LA Times, USA Today, and The Guardian may vary slightly in phrasing, but they often return to the same key answers. Some variations include:
- What a selfish kid says MEFIRST
- Claiming the front seat CALLEDIT
- First to shout for something MEFIRST
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too Literal Thinking
Don’t assume the answer must include the word dibs. The clue is informal and metaphorical. The goal is to match the idea, not repeat the word.
Ignoring the Length
Never guess an answer that doesn’t fit the square count. Even if it sounds perfect, if the boxes don’t match, it’s incorrect.
Overcomplicating the Clue
This type of clue is meant to be simple and familiar. Don’t overanalyze. Go with your gut often your first instinct is right for casual phrases.
Why Knowing Phrases Like This Helps You Win
Improves Puzzle Flow
Getting easy, informal clues right gives you confidence and builds momentum. These answers often cross with harder clues, unlocking key sections of the grid.
Expands Language Awareness
Crosswords reflect culture. The more familiar you are with conversational English, idioms, and pop references, the better you’ll perform across all puzzle types.
Boosts Pattern Recognition
Over time, you’ll recognize clue-answer pairs like I call dibs â MEFIRST instantly. This saves time and increases accuracy.
The clue I call dibs is a great example of how modern crossword puzzles blend language, humor, and cultural reference into a quick-thinking challenge. The answer is most commonly MEFIRST, but alternatives like CALLEDIT or ITSMINE can also appear depending on the grid. To solve these clues confidently, pay attention to tone, count the boxes, and trust your intuition. With practice, you’ll start to see clues like this as opportunities not obstacles and your puzzle-solving speed will improve dramatically. Whether you’re solving for fun or sharpening your competitive edge, knowing how to handle clues like I call dibs is a valuable skill in your crossword toolkit.