The clue "Toothy tools" uses wordplay, hinting at tools with "teeth." SAWS, such as handsaws or circular saws, have sharp, tooth-like edges used for cutting. The "toothy" descriptor cleverly connects to the jagged teeth of these tools, making SAWS the fitting solution.
5PLOTS?????✨ See Why
A "cabal" refers to a secret group often engaged in conspiratorial or scheming activities. "PLOTS" aligns with this idea, as it means secret plans or schemes, particularly for malicious or treacherous purposes, making it the perfect answer to "Cabal activities."
7FLORA?????✨ See Why
The term "FLORA" refers to all plant life in a particular region, habitat, or geological period. In this context, "Plant life" is a direct definition of the diverse vegetation or plant species collectively described by the word "FLORA," making it the correct answer.
8SOFAS?????✨ See Why
The clue uses a pun. "Convertibles" suggests something that can change form, and in this case, SOFAS can "convert" into beds (sofa beds). However, these "convertibles" aren't for driving (as in cars), linking the playful wordplay to furniture.
9TSPS????✨ See Why
The clue "Almond extract amts." refers to "amounts" in recipes, often abbreviated. TSPS stands for teaspoons, a common unit of measurement in cooking and baking, which is typically used for small quantities like almond extract. The abbreviation matches the abbreviated nature of the clue.
Down
1SPFS????✨ See Why
SPFs (Sun Protection Factors) are numerical ratings on tanning lotions and sunscreens that indicate their effectiveness at protecting skin from UV radiation. The clue "Tanning lotion stats" refers to these essential metrics, making SPFs the fitting answer.
2ALLOT?????✨ See Why
The word "ALLOT" means to distribute or assign portions of something, such as shares or tasks. The clue specifies "Distribute, as shares," directly aligning with the definition of ALLOT, which refers to giving out shares or allocated portions systematically.
3WOOFS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Canine greetings" refers to sounds dogs make when acknowledging someone. "WOOFS" represents the barking sound many dogs produce as a form of greeting. This answer fits perfectly as it captures the behavior and sound associated with dogs saying "hello."
4STRAP?????✨ See Why
The answer "STRAP" fits because a guitar strap is a common accessory used to hold a guitar securely while playing. These straps can often be embroidered with decorative patterns or designs, aligning perfectly with the clue's description of an "Embroidered guitar accessory."
6SASS????✨ See Why
The answer "SASS" works because the clue "Snippy back talk" refers to rude or disrespectful retorts often delivered with a sharp or insolent tone. "Snippy" suggests abruptness, while "back talk" implies speaking disrespectfully in response, both of which align perfectly with the meaning of "SASS."
Stuck on today’s LA Times Mini? Lady Puzzle’s here to help! Use the interactive grid to flip question marks and reveal letters one by one, check any clue in the list below, or uncover the whole puzzle at once. Plus, get explanations for why each answer works. Here is your go-to tool for solving the LA Times Mini (a free alternative to the now paid NYT Mini)!
This Wednesday LA Times Mini feels like a classic midweek mix: most of the grid is breezy and accessible (SAWS, PLOTS, FLORA, SASS), but there are a few entries that ask solvers to pause. The standout trick is SOFAS for “Convertibles that aren’t for driving?”—a fun misdirect that’s very Mini in style. Abbreviation plurals like SPFS and TSPS add a bit of crossword crunch, while STRAP and ALOT are slightly less obvious depending on how you parse the clues. Overall, it’s a quick solve with just enough wordplay to keep Wednesday from feeling too plain.
Here’s what caught our attention today:
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The LA Times Mini Crossword is a daily, bite-sized puzzle from the Los Angeles Times. Designed for quick solving, it delivers the fun of a full crossword in a compact format that takes just a few minutes to complete. The puzzle is edited by Elizabeth C. Gorski, a veteran crossword constructor and editor who has also created puzzles for The New York Times and Zynga.
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