What does utterly hopeless nyt mean in the crossword?

[Elias]

What’s the answer for utterly hopeless nyt in the crossword?
I’ve tried several synonyms already.
Looking for guidance on utterly hopeless nyt.

 

[sarahmartin]

If that doesn't match your board, try DIRE (4 letters) or ABYSMAL (7 letters). A crossword puzzle maker usually uses that exact wording to indicate that something is beyond saving or destruction.

 

[robbinhook]

The New York Times crossword typically answers dire to the clue utterly hopeless. It is a scenario where there is no visible solution or success chances. Similar answers, such as bleak or lost, can also fit the puzzle depending on the puzzle and the length of the grid.