ISOLDE is the heroine in Richard Wagner's opera Tristan und Isolde. She is a key character in the tragic love story central to the opera, making her a significant "Wagner heroine." The name fits the clue's straightforward reference to Wagner's work.
7Words before date or speedUPTO????✨ See Why
The phrase "up to" is commonly used to precede "date" (as in "up to date," meaning current or updated) or "speed" (as in "up to speed," meaning informed or operating at a required level). Hence, "UPTO" fits the clue perfectly.
11Like some scientists and dashesMAD???✨ See Why
The clue uses a pun. "Mad" describes eccentric or "mad scientist" stereotypes associated with unconventional scientists. Additionally, it hints at "mad dash," a phrase for hurried movement, linking "dashes" in a playful, figurative sense. Hence, "MAD" cleverly fits both parts of the clue.
14Go off trackDERAIL??????✨ See Why
The clue "Go off track" directly relates to the word "DERAIL," which means to literally or figuratively go off course, like a train coming off its tracks or a conversation losing focus. This matches the definition of leaving a set path or plan.
15Old-fashioned prelude to a duelSLAP????✨ See Why
In historical or literary contexts, a duel often started with an insult or provocation, like a dramatic slap across the face with a glove. This gesture served as a formal challenge to combat, making "SLAP" a fitting answer to "Old-fashioned prelude to a duel."
16Big birdEMU???✨ See Why
The answer "EMU" fits the clue "Big bird" because the emu is a large, flightless bird native to Australia. It is one of the largest birds in the world, second only to the ostrich. As "big" directly suggests size, "EMU" is an apt solution.
17The 68 participants in the N.C.A.A. March Madness tournament, e.g.SEEDEDTEAMS???????????✨ See Why
This clue refers to the process of ranking teams in the NCAA March Madness tournament based on their performance and potential. The word “SEEDED” highlights the ranking system where teams are metaphorically “planted” in the bracket to ensure fairness. "TEAMS" directly refers to the 68 basketball squads that compete in the tournament. Together, the phrase captures this sports terminology while also nodding to the theme, as “SEEDED” is a type of rye bread.
19Quick drinkNIP???✨ See Why
The answer "NIP" fits the clue "Quick drink" because "nip" commonly refers to a small, quick sip or amount of alcohol. It conveys a brief, swift action, aligning perfectly with the clue's "quick" descriptor. This concise term is often used for a quick taste or small portion of a drink.
20StaffROD???✨ See Why
The clue "Staff" can refer to a straight, often sturdy stick or pole used for support, which is called a ROD. Additionally, "staff" can metaphorically represent an object offering support. This aligns with ROD being a synonym for a staff-like tool or implement.
21DeserveEARN????✨ See Why
The answer "EARN" works because to "deserve" something often means to have worked for or merited it through effort or actions. Similarly, to "earn" something means achieving it through one's work or actions, making the two concepts closely linked in meaning.
22In the buffNUDE????✨ See Why
The phrase "In the buff" is a common idiom meaning to be naked or without clothes. "Nude" is a synonym for being naked, making it the correct answer. The clue uses this idiomatic meaning directly, without wordplay.
23Rank below marquessEARL????✨ See Why
In the British peerage system, an earl ranks below a marquess and above a viscount. The clue refers to this hierarchical order of nobility, making EARL the correct answer. This system is part of historical titles of nobility in the UK.
25ConvenienceEASE????✨ See Why
The solution "EASE" fits the clue "Convenience" because ease refers to a state of comfort, simplicity, or effortlessness—qualities directly associated with convenience. Both words convey a lack of difficulty or trouble, making them synonymous in this context.
28Michelangelo's David and the Venus de Milo, for twoMARBLESTATUES?????????????✨ See Why
This clue describes two of the world’s most famous sculptures: Michelangelo’s David and the Venus de Milo. The key part here is MARBLE, indicating the material from which both masterpieces were carved. “STATUES” clarifies their form as monumental works of art. The phrase highlights their shared artistry while also connecting to the theme, as “MARBLE” refers to another type of rye bread.
33A, in AachenEIN???✨ See Why
The clue "A, in Aachen" hints at a foreign language, as Aachen is a city in Germany. In German, the article "a" is "ein" for masculine and neuter nouns. Therefore, the answer is EIN, fitting both the language and the clue's intent.
34The "S" of CBS: Abbr.SYST????✨ See Why
The "S" in CBS stands for "System." Since the clue specifies an abbreviation, the shortened form "SYST" is the correct answer, representing "System" in the name Columbia Broadcasting System.
35Like some remedies or teasHERBAL??????✨ See Why
The clue "Like some remedies or teas" refers to a type of remedy or tea made from herbs. Herbal teas are infusions made from plants, and many natural remedies are also herbal-based. The word "herbal" directly describes this shared characteristic, making it the correct answer.
37Sow's snifferSNOUT?????✨ See Why
The clue "Sow's sniffer" refers to the organ a sow (a female pig) uses to sniff, which is its nose. A pig's nose is commonly called a SNOUT, aligning perfectly with the clue. The word "sniffer" effectively emphasizes the sense of smell, making SNOUT the fitting answer.
39Listen hereEAR???✨ See Why
The answer "EAR" fits because the ear is the body part used for listening. The clue "Listen here" plays on the fact that the ear is literally where you listen. The direct and literal nature of the clue aligns perfectly with the answer.
41Cheers (for)ROOTS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Cheers (for)" plays on the dual meaning of "cheers." To "cheer for" someone is to support or ROOT for them. ROOTS fits as it refers to the act of showing support or encouragement, aligning with the clue's phrasing and context.
42Bit of shut-eyeCATNAP??????✨ See Why
The clue "Bit of shut-eye" refers to a short period of sleep. A CATNAP is typically a brief nap, resembling the quick, light sleep of a cat, fitting the idea of a small "bit" of rest perfectly. This is a straightforward, literal clue.
44C-worthySOSO????✨ See Why
The clue "C-worthy" plays on the idea of grading, where a "C" is an average score. The term "so-so" similarly means something of mediocre or average quality, matching the clue's meaning. The hyphen in "so-so" further emphasizes the wordplay and connection to the grade "C."
46Young fellowLAD???✨ See Why
The word "LAD" is a common term used to describe a young boy or fellow, particularly in British and informal English. It directly matches the straightforward clue "Young fellow," making it the correct and simple solution to fit the definition provided.
47Purim or Rosh HashanahJEWISHHOLIDAY?????????????✨ See Why
This clue highlights two significant celebrations in Jewish culture: Purim, a festive holiday commemorating the saving of the Jewish people in ancient Persia, and Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. The answer, JEWISHHOLIDAY, directly names what these observances are. The word “JEWISH” also connects to the puzzle’s theme, as it refers to Jewish rye, a popular type of rye bread.
50Mononymous Irish singerENYA????✨ See Why
The answer is ENYA because she is a famous Irish singer known for her ethereal music and goes by a mononym (a single name). "Mononymous" directly indicates a one-name artist, and ENYA, born Eithne Pádraigín Ní Bhraonáin, fits this description perfectly.
51PopSODA????✨ See Why
The clue "Pop" is a playful word with multiple meanings. Here, it refers to the informal term for a carbonated beverage, often called "soda" in the U.S. The brevity and casual tone of the clue match the simplicity of the answer, SODA.
52The ___ of AvonBARD????✨ See Why
The "Bard of Avon" refers to William Shakespeare, who was born and lived in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. "Bard" is a term for a poet, often used to describe Shakespeare due to his legendary status as a playwright and poet. Thus, the answer is BARD.
55Doesn't keepROTS????✨ See Why
The clue "Doesn't keep" implies something that spoils or goes bad over time. "ROTS" fits perfectly as it describes decay or spoilage, which happens when something is not preserved or kept properly. This aligns directly with the idea of not keeping or maintaining something.
57Sgt. or cpl.NCO???✨ See Why
The clue "Sgt. or cpl." refers to military ranks. Both "Sgt." (Sergeant) and "cpl." (Corporal) are ranks that fall under "NCO," which stands for Non-Commissioned Officer. NCOs are enlisted members in a military hierarchy who hold authority but are not commissioned officers. Hence, the answer is NCO.
60Bowl overAWE???✨ See Why
The phrase "Bowl over" metaphorically means to astonish or amaze someone, which aligns perfectly with "AWE." To "bowl over" someone figuratively evokes leaving them in a state of amazement or wonder—hence, the use of AWE as the answer.
61Old TV series featuring the creepy main character Barnabas CollinsDARKSHADOWS???????????✨ See Why
This refers to the classic gothic soap opera "Dark Shadows," known for its eerie atmosphere and the vampire Barnabas Collins. The answer, DARKSHADOWS, connects to the theme through the word “DARK,” referring to dark rye, another type of rye bread. The show's mysterious tone adds a flavorful twist to this thematic connection.
65Drag accessoryBOA???✨ See Why
The answer "BOA" refers to a feather boa, a popular accessory in drag culture. Drag performers often wear boas for their dramatic flair, vibrant colors, and glamorous appeal, making it a fitting choice for the clue "Drag accessory." It directly connects to the performance art style of drag.
66Et ___ (and others)ALII????✨ See Why
The Latin phrase "Et alii" translates to "and others," often used in citations to indicate additional authors. The clue uses "Et ___," signaling the need for a Latin continuation. ALII, meaning "others" in Latin, fits contextually and grammatically, making it the correct solution.
67Place for a laceEYELET??????✨ See Why
The clue “Place for a lace” refers to where a shoelace or similar string is threaded through. An EYELET is a small reinforced hole, often in shoes or clothing, specifically designed for threading laces, making it the perfect answer.
68With 69-Across, courtroom directive … or, homophonically, what the starts of 17-, 28-, 47-and 61-Across areALL???✨ See Why
The directive “ALL RISE” is used in courtrooms to signal everyone to stand when the judge enters. The clue cleverly uses a homophone to reinterpret the phrase as “ALL RYES,” referring to the types of rye bread hidden at the starts of the themed entries: SEEDED, MARBLE, JEWISH, and DARK. This creative wordplay ties the puzzle’s theme to both the courtroom phrase and the hidden bread varieties.
69See 68-AcrossRISE????✨ See Why
To understand why the answer is RISE, refer to the clue at 68-Across. That clue likely provides the primary context or theme tying into RISE, such as an expression, concept, synonym, or wordplay. Solving 68-Across reveals the connection, enabling "See 68-Across" to make sense.
70TranquilSERENE??????✨ See Why
The clue "Tranquil" directly refers to a state of calmness or peace, which aligns with the meaning of the word "serene." Both words describe a sense of stillness or soothing quietness, making SERENE the perfect solution in this context.
Down
1T.S.A. requirementsIDS???✨ See Why
The T.S.A. (Transportation Security Administration) requires identification documents (IDs) for screening passengers at airports. "IDS" is the abbreviation for "identification documents," making it the correct answer. This aligns with their standard protocol to verify traveler identity before allowing access to secure areas or boarding flights.
2Nostradamus, for oneSEER????✨ See Why
The answer is SEER because Nostradamus was historically known as a mystic who could predict the future. A "seer" refers to someone who claims to have the ability to foresee events, aligning perfectly with Nostradamus's reputation for prophetic writings and predictions.
3Cookie with its name on itOREO????✨ See Why
The answer is OREO because it is a well-known cookie that has the word "OREO" prominently printed on each individual cookie. This directly answers the clue, as the cookie literally has its name on it, making it an exact and straightforward match.
4Item on a fire truckLADDER??????✨ See Why
The answer is LADDER because fire trucks are equipped with ladders to help firefighters reach high places, such as windows or rooftops, during emergencies. This essential tool is a standard item associated with fire trucks, making it the correct solution for the clue.
5Stop runningDIE???✨ See Why
The clue "Stop running" can metaphorically mean "to cease functioning or living," which aligns with the word "DIE." In this context, "running" could refer to life or something active, and stopping permanently equates to "die." It’s a figurative use of the phrase.
6In one's golden yearsELDERLY???????✨ See Why
The phrase "In one's golden years" is a common metaphor referring to old age. "Golden" symbolizes value and maturity, aligning with older age being seen as the later, cherished stage of life. Thus, the answer "ELDERLY" aptly describes those in their golden years.
7App customerUSER????✨ See Why
The clue "App customer" refers to someone who utilizes an app. The word "USER" is commonly used to describe individuals engaging with applications or software, making it the appropriate solution. It straightforwardly represents the person interacting with the app as a consumer or customer.
8Venus, but not SerenaPLANET??????✨ See Why
The clue "Venus, but not Serena" plays on the fact that Venus refers to both a planet in our solar system and the tennis player Venus Williams. Since "Serena" only refers to the tennis player Serena Williams, the answer is PLANET, indicating the celestial body Venus.
9Many a tartan capTAM???✨ See Why
The answer "TAM" refers to a "tam o' shanter," a traditional Scottish cap often made from tartan fabric. The clue highlights its association with tartan, a Scottish textile pattern, making "TAM" the fitting answer.
10Photo ___OPS???✨ See Why
The clue "Photo ___" refers to something commonly associated with photos. The answer "OPS" is short for "operations," often used in "photo ops," a term for staged opportunities for photo-taking, particularly in press or publicity settings. It's a common shorthand in media and event contexts.
11List of optionsMENU????✨ See Why
The answer "MENU" fits because a menu is literally a list of options, commonly referring to selections available at a restaurant or on a digital interface like a program or website. It aligns perfectly with the straightforward wording of the clue.
12Surrounded byAMID????✨ See Why
The word "AMID" means "in the middle of" or "surrounded by," making it a direct synonym for the clue "Surrounded by." The clue uses straightforward language without wordplay, leading to this compact, appropriate answer.
13TrickDUPE????✨ See Why
The clue "Trick" paired with the answer DUPE fits because "dupe" means to deceive or trick someone, aligning directly with the clue. The simplicity of the one-word clue suggests a straightforward synonym, and "DUPE" is commonly used in this context.
18"Honor Thy Father" authorTALESE??????✨ See Why
The answer is TALESE because Gay Talese is the acclaimed author of Honor Thy Father, a non-fiction book published in 1971. It chronicles the story of the Bonanno crime family, merging true crime with literary journalism, making Talese a well-known figure in the genre.
22Prefix with -logicalNEURO?????✨ See Why
The clue asks for a prefix to pair with "-logical." NEURO- relates to neuroscience, the study of the nervous system, brain, and related functions. Combining "neuro" with "-logical" forms "neurological," which pertains to the nervous system, making NEURO the correct solution.
24Choose not to participateABSTAIN???????✨ See Why
The clue "Choose not to participate" directly describes the action of refraining from involvement, most commonly used in voting or decision-making contexts. The word "ABSTAIN" specifically means to deliberately decide not to take part or engage, aligning perfectly with the clue's definition.
26"Feels so good!"AAH???✨ See Why
The clue "Feels so good!" is in quotes, signaling a verbal or nonverbal expression. "AAH" represents the sound of relief or pleasure someone might make when feeling very good, such as after relaxing or enjoying something satisfying. It's an auditory reaction matching the meaning of the clue.
27Olympics no-noSTEROID???????✨ See Why
The answer "STEROID" fits because performance-enhancing drugs like steroids are strictly prohibited in the Olympics. Their use violates anti-doping rules established to ensure fair competition. The clue references this as a major "no-no," directly tying STEROID to a banned substance in the Olympic context.
28Nicki with the 2014 hit "Anaconda"MINAJ?????✨ See Why
The answer is MINAJ because the clue refers to Nicki Minaj, a well-known rapper and singer who released the hit song "Anaconda" in 2014. Her last name "Minaj" directly fits the clue, making it the correct solution.
29Make ___ of (jot down)ANOTE?????✨ See Why
The phrase "Make ___ of" suggests completing the phrase with a noun. "Jot down" implies writing something. "A NOTE" is a perfect fit since it means writing down information quickly, aligning with the clue's context. The indefinite article "A" completes the expression succinctly.
30Secret storeSTASH?????✨ See Why
The clue "Secret store" refers to something hidden or kept out of sight. The word "STASH" is commonly used to describe a hidden collection or a place where items are secretly kept, aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning.
31Virus first discovered in 1976EBOLA?????✨ See Why
The answer is EBOLA because the Ebola virus was first identified in 1976 near the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It caused severe outbreaks of hemorrhagic fever, making it a notable discovery in virology history. This fits with the clue's description of a virus discovered that year.
32Skewered Indonesian dishSATAY?????✨ See Why
The clue "Skewered Indonesian dish" directly describes a popular Indonesian dish, satay. Satay consists of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meat, commonly served with a flavorful peanut sauce. The word "skewered" explicitly refers to how the dish is prepared, confirming SATAY as the correct answer.
33F1 neighborESC???✨ See Why
The clue "F1 neighbor" refers to the layout of a standard computer keyboard. The F1 key is near the ESC (Escape) key, typically located at the top-left corner of the keyboard. Thus, "neighbor" hints at a physical adjacency between these keys, making ESC the correct answer.
36It's taken to start a tripLSD???✨ See Why
LSD is the solution because the clue uses wordplay. "Trip" refers to both a journey and the hallucinations experienced when taking LSD, a psychedelic drug. The phrase "taken to start a trip" cleverly points to the drug's ability to induce a hallucinogenic "trip."
38Like bachelorsUNWED?????✨ See Why
The clue "Like bachelors" refers to individuals who are not married. The term "unwed" directly means "not married," making it a fitting synonym. Bachelors, by definition, are single and unmarried, aligning perfectly with the answer "UNWED."
40Fowl poles?ROOSTS??????✨ See Why
The clue "Fowl poles?" ends with a question mark, signaling wordplay. "Fowl" refers to birds, and "poles" playfully hints at places birds might perch. "ROOSTS" are spots (or poles) where birds settle or rest, making it a fitting and pun-based answer.
43Therapist's maj.PSY???✨ See Why
The clue “Therapist's maj.” refers to the common field of study for therapists. "Maj." is short for "major," hinting at the subject they might study in college. Many therapists major in psychology, which is abbreviated as "PSY." Hence, PSY is the correct answer.
45Walks through waterSLOSHES???????✨ See Why
The answer "SLOSHES" fits "Walks through water" because "sloshes" describes the splashing or swaying movement of liquid, often associated with wading through water. It captures the motion and sound involved when someone walks through water in an unsteady or splashing way.
482024 campaign nameHARRIS??????✨ See Why
The answer "HARRIS" refers to Kamala Harris, the current U.S. Vice President under President Joe Biden. Given the context of the 2024 campaign, her name is relevant as she may play a significant role, potentially as Biden's running mate or a candidate herself, making it a plausible "campaign name."
49It's up when you're angryDANDER??????✨ See Why
The phrase "get one's dander up" means becoming angry or agitated, making "DANDER" a perfect fit. Here, "It's up when you're angry" refers to this idiom, cleverly hinting at the rise in emotion when one is angered. The wordplay uses this figurative expression.
52___ ghanoujBABA????✨ See Why
The answer "BABA" refers to "baba ghanouj," a popular Levantine dish made from mashed, grilled eggplant mixed with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings. The blank in the clue "___ ghanouj" signals the missing first part of this well-known dish’s name.
53Way off base?AWOL????✨ See Why
The clue "Way off base?" uses wordplay. "AWOL" stands for "Absent Without Official Leave" and refers to someone who is away from their assigned base or duty without permission. The pun here connects "off base" (absent) to the military term AWOL.
54Bona fideREAL????✨ See Why
The clue "Bona fide" means genuine or authentic. The answer "REAL" fits because "real" is synonymous with genuine, true, or authentic—qualities that align directly with the meaning of "bona fide." This is a straightforward clue with no wordplay, simply relying on the shared definition.
56Steinbeck's Tom Joad, e.g.OKIE????✨ See Why
The answer is OKIE because Tom Joad, the protagonist of Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath, is an Oklahoma migrant. "Okie" is a term for residents or migrants from Oklahoma, many of whom, like the Joads, moved west during the Dust Bowl in search of a better life.
58___ slawCOLE????✨ See Why
The answer "COLE" completes the term "cole slaw," a common dish made of shredded cabbage mixed with dressings. The clue references this standard pairing in the culinary world, where "cole slaw" is widely recognized as a popular salad or side dish.
59Clive of "Inside Man"OWEN????✨ See Why
The answer is OWEN because Clive Owen is a well-known actor who starred in the 2006 film Inside Man directed by Spike Lee. This clue uses the actor's first name and associates it with his role in the movie.
61___ es Salaam, TanzaniaDAR???✨ See Why
The answer is DAR because Dar es Salaam is the largest city and former capital of Tanzania. The clue refers to the first part of the city's name, "Dar," completing the full city name with "es Salaam."
62"Beef" star WongALI???✨ See Why
The answer is ALI because Ali Wong is a comedian and actress who stars in the Netflix series Beef. The clue refers to her last name and is directly tied to her fame and role in the show.
63House voteAYE???✨ See Why
The clue "House vote" refers to a vote in a legislative "House," like the U.S. House of Representatives. Legislators often vote verbally, saying "Aye" to indicate agreement or approval. "Aye" is a common parliamentary term meaning "yes," making it the perfect solution for this clue.
64French holy title: Abbr.STE???✨ See Why
The clue "French holy title: Abbr." indicates a title related to sainthood in French. "Sainte" is the French word for "Saint" (feminine form), often abbreviated as "Ste." in French contexts, such as in saint names or religious references. Thus, the answer is STE.
Dan Margolis’s Tuesday puzzle is a clever and engaging offering, showcasing a playful homophone-based theme. The title "ALL RISE" is cleverly interpreted as "ALL RYES," referencing different types of rye bread—SEEDED, MARBLE, JEWISH, and DARK—hidden at the starts of the themed entries. This inventive wordplay adds a layer of charm while remaining accessible, as expected for an early-week puzzle. Highlights include DARKSHADOWS and MARBLESTATUES, which fit seamlessly with the theme. The wordplay extends to witty clues like "Way off base?" (AWOL) and "Fowl poles?" (ROOSTS). Overall, the puzzle balances creativity and approachability with its delightful homophone-driven concept.
Today's Tricky Wordplay
Here's what caught our attention today:
NYT Crossword - All You Need To Know
You can enjoy the New York Times Crossword puzzle in various formats:
Mobile Apps: Available in The New York Times Games app (iOS and Android) and the Play tab of the New York Times News app.
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NYT Crossword Themes and Titles
The difficulty of the NYT Crossword evolves throughout the week, and a big part of that progression comes from its use of themes and titles.
Themes
Monday to Wednesday: These puzzles almost always have a theme, with several long answers connected by a common thread. Many include a “revealer” clue—a final answer that explains the theme’s pattern.
Thursday: Still themed, but often with an added twist. Expect trickier mechanics like rebus squares (where multiple letters fit in one box) or unconventional entry rules.
Friday & Saturday: These puzzles are themeless, relying instead on clever wordplay and more challenging vocabulary. Without a theme as a guide, the difficulty increases.
Sunday: The largest puzzle of the week is always themed, and its title offers a hint about the underlying concept.
Titles
Sunday puzzles always have a title that helps solvers identify the theme.
Monday through Saturday puzzles generally don’t have official titles.
While these patterns hold most of the time, creativity and playfulness are at the heart of crossword construction—so expect occasional surprises!
NYT Crossword Puzzle Availability
Online and All Access Subscribers: Daily puzzles are available the evening before their print release.
Weekday and Saturday Puzzles: Available at 10 p.m. EST the previous day.
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How To Play
Fill the white squares with letters to form words or phrases that cross each other by solving clues in the Across and Down columns. The puzzles increase in difficulty from Monday to Saturday, with the Sunday puzzle being similar in difficulty to Wednesday or Thursday but larger in size.
Completion and Feedback
Successful Completion: A congratulatory message and music play when the puzzle is correctly solved. If no message appears, there might be an error in the filled squares.
Stars for Completion
Gold Stars: Awarded for puzzles solved consecutively before midnight EST without using Check or Reveal.
Blue Stars: Given for puzzles solved after midnight EST, with a skipped day, or using Check or Reveal.
Keyboard Shortcuts
For computer users, the following shortcuts can enhance gameplay:
Arrow Keys: Navigate in the puzzle.
Spacebar: Clear the current square and advance, toggle between Across and Down.
Backspace/Delete: Remove a letter or word.
Tab: Jump to the next clue.
Shift + Tab: Jump to the previous clue.
Escape: Enter Rebus mode.
App Customization Options
Cursor Movement: Customize cursor settings in the Puzzle Settings menu. Options include skipping filled squares, jumping to the first blank, or the next clue.
Secondary Keyboard: For symbols and numbers, switch by selecting the More button.
Adjust Puzzle Size: Zoom in with a pinch gesture or toggle Clue View.
Modes
Alternate between black (pen) and gray (pencil) letters.
Letter Colors
Black: Default pen mode.
Gray: Pencil mode.
Blue: Letters confirmed with Check.
Timer and Special Elements
Timer: Track your solving time. Pause and resume as needed, or hide the timer in the settings.
Rebus Elements: Enter letters, numbers, or symbols in a single square as part of the puzzle’s challenge or hint.
NYT Crossword Help
The New York Times provides various resources to aid in solving puzzles and improving solving skills.
In-Game Help
Information Icon ("i"): Flashing icon indicates available puzzle hint.
Lifesaver Icon: Offers options to check or reveal a square, an answer, or the entire puzzle.
Clear: Resets the entire puzzle.
Reveal: Displays correct letters for selected square, answer, or entire puzzle.
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Note: Using Reveal or Check resets the Crossword Streak.
Lady Puzzle Pro Help
Besides this page, meant to help you unblock or finish a puzzle we published a comprehensive guide on how to read the NYT Crossword Clues, which includes mini hints to assist you with both the NYT crosswords and the NYT Mini puzzle solving.
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