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LA Times Mini Crossword Clues & Answers

Across

  • 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.

  • 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."

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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."

  • 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."

  • 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."

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Today’s LA Times Mini Crossword Highlights

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.

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What is the LA Times The Mini Crossword?

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.

Key Features

  • Daily puzzles: A new mini crossword is released every day.
  • Free to play: No subscription required—accessible directly on the LA Times website.
  • Mobile-friendly: Optimized for quick, on-the-go solving.
  • Puzzle archive: Solvers can access past minis for extra practice.

How It Compares

  • Similar in style and size to the New York Times Mini Crossword, but created separately.
  • Remains free to play, unlike the NYT Mini, which now sits behind a paywall.

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The LA Times Mini is perfect for anyone looking for:

  • A fast daily challenge.
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