AI crossword-solving application could make machines better at understanding language

A web-based machine language system solves crossword puzzles far better than commercially-available products, and may help machines better understand language. Despite recent progress in AI, problems involving language understanding are particularly difficult. Felix Hill Researchers have designed a web-based platform which uses artificial neural networks to answer standard crossword clues better than existing commercial products specifically designed for the task. The system, which is freely available online , could help machines understand language more effectively. In tests against commercial crossword-solving software, the system, designed by researchers from the UK, US and Canada, was more accurate at answering clues that were single words (e.g. 'culpability' - guilt), a short combination of words (e.g. 'devil devotee' - Satanist), or a longer sentence or phrase (e.g.