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NYT Crossword Answers: Get Hints and Solve All Clues

Across

  • The phrase "Going ___" leads to "going AT IT," which is an idiomatic expression meaning to engage fiercely or energetically in an activity, often a fight, debate, or effort. The clue implies this active state, fitting the blank naturally with "ATIT."

  • The clue "Clarifying words" refers to a phrase often used to explain or specify something further. "That is" serves this exact purpose in English, typically as an introductory clarification or restatement. Therefore, "THATIS" fits as the solution, aligning perfectly with the clue's intent.

  • The answer "GPA" stands for Grade Point Average, a numerical metric students are often concerned about. "In brief" indicates the answer is an abbreviation, and GPA directly reflects a student's academic performance, fitting the clue perfectly.

  • The answer is ALICE because Jefferson Airplane's song "White Rabbit" is inspired by Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. The song references themes and characters from the story, and "Alice" is the central girl in that famous tale of surreal adventures.

  • The clue "Use a Sharpie on, perhaps" suggests altering or marking something, often with black ink. "Redact" means to obscure or censor text, commonly done with a marker like a Sharpie to black out sensitive information. The wordplay lies in the "perhaps," hinting at this specific use.

  • The answer is ALI because Laila Ali is a well-known, undefeated professional boxer and the daughter of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. She retired with a perfect 24-0 record, making her one of the most prominent figures in boxing. The clue directly refers to her name.

  • The answer is JANELLE MONÁE because she is a Platinum-selling singer known for her music career and also an acclaimed actress who starred in the Oscar-winning films "Moonlight" and "Hidden Figures." Her dual success in music and film makes her the perfect fit for this clue.

  • The answer is VAN because a van is a common vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers, making it ideal for transporting a family. It aligns directly with the clue as practical "family transport," providing sufficient space and comfort for group travel.

  • The solution "AMCS" refers to AMC Theatres, a well-known chain of movie theaters. The clue specifies "Certain chain movie theaters," pointing to the AMC brand, which operates cinemas nationwide. The plural form "AMCS" aligns with the clue's plural "theaters."

  • The answer "ASP" refers to a venomous snake prominently associated with ancient Egypt. Historically, the asp was linked to Cleopatra, who, as legend suggests, used its bite for her death. It is a direct and accurate fit for the clue "Egyptian snake," making it the solution.

  • The answer is DNATEST because a DNA test analyzes genetic material to establish biological relationships. It can confirm (proof) or rule out (disproof) paternity by comparing the DNA of the child and the alleged father, making it the definitive tool for such determinations.

  • The answer is ROTINI because it is a type of pasta shaped like small, tight corkscrews or spirals. The clue directly describes its defining shape, making ROTINI the perfect match. No wordplay or additional interpretation is needed; it’s a straightforward reference to the pasta.

  • The clue "Lion's home" refers to the Detroit Lions, an NFL football team. Their home city is Detroit. This is a play on words, with "Lion's home" cleverly pointing to the team’s geographic base rather than a natural habitat.

  • The clue signals a playful or pun-based answer. The "creature" isn't real but evokes the idea of a playful, imaginary being. A "tickle monster" humorously "attacks" children by tickling them. This fits the whimsical tone of the clue perfectly.

  • The answer "SOB" works because it directly describes the act of shedding tears while crying audibly. The word "sob" encapsulates the emotional outburst often associated with crying, making it a succinct fit for the clue "Shed tears."

  • The answer is ASIAN because both snow leopards and giant pandas are native to Asia. Snow leopards inhabit mountain ranges in Central and South Asia, while giant pandas are found in the bamboo forests of China. Hence, they are both "Asian" animals.

  • Oscar I was King of Norway and Sweden from 1844 to 1859. The Roman numeral "I" indicates he was the first of his name, making OSCARI the correct answer based on historical records. This clue is a straightforward historical reference to the monarch.

  • The OPAH, also known as the moonfish, is the only known fully warm-blooded fish. Unlike other fish, it circulates warm blood through its body, enabling it to maintain a higher body temperature, even in cold water. This unique trait makes OPAH the correct answer.

  • The clue "Not much" suggests a small amount. "A tad" is a common phrase meaning a small or slight amount. When written without a space, it forms "ATAD," aligning perfectly with the clue’s meaning. Hence, "ATAD" is the answer.

  • The answer "AGED" fits the clue because both fine wine and cheese improve or develop desired qualities over time as they mature. The process of aging enhances their flavor, texture, or value, making "AGED" the perfect descriptor.

  • The term "aughts" refers to the period from 2000 to 2009, which spans ten years, or a DECADE. This fits since "e.g." suggests an example, and the aughts exemplify a ten-year period commonly called a decade.

  • The answer is ELISE because "Für Elise" is a famous piano piece composed by Ludwig van Beethoven. The title translates to "For Elise" in German, making ELISE the dedication in the blank. This is a direct reference to Beethoven’s well-known work.

  • "Intimations of Immortality" by Wordsworth is a lyrical poem, specifically an ode, which is a type of poetic form that expresses deep emotion and reverence. "E.g." in the clue indicates an example; thus, the answer "ODE" fits as the poem's form.

  • The clue “Homing devices?” includes a question mark, signaling wordplay. ANKLE MONITORS are electronic devices used to track a person’s location, often in legal contexts like house arrest. Here, "homing" cleverly hints at tracking someone’s "home" or whereabouts, making this a pun-based solution.

  • The clue "Done without much care, informally" directly matches the slang term HALFASS, which describes performing a task with insufficient effort or attention to detail. The informal tone of the clue aligns with the casual expression, making this a fitting, colloquial answer.

  • The phrase "Something not to quit, they say" refers to the common expression "Don't quit your day job," often used humorously to suggest someone shouldn't abandon their reliable job for uncertain pursuits. "DAYJOB" fits as the answer because it's the steady, practical work one shouldn't leave impulsively.

  • The clue "Excels at school" suggests performing exceptionally in academics. The answer, GETSANA, refers to achieving top grades, specifically straight A's, often seen as excelling academically. The phrase "gets an A" cleverly ties into the idea of excelling by receiving the highest marks.

  • The clue "Year in Rio" refers to the Portuguese word for "year" since Rio de Janeiro is in Brazil, where Portuguese is spoken. The Portuguese word for "year" is ANO, making it the correct solution.

  • The slang term "DOPE" is often used to describe something excellent, impressive, or stylish—essentially meaning "cool." In informal settings, it's synonymous with being trendy or appealing, making it the perfect match for the clue "Cool, in slang."

  • The answer "RAY" works because a ray is a single, narrow beam of light, often referred to as a "bit" of light. This concise term perfectly matches the clue's description of something small and light-related.

  • The phrase "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade" means turning challenges into opportunities. The "hidden" items in 17-, 27-, and 48-Across likely contain the letters spelling "lemon," pointing to this proverb. Thus, the answer is MAKELEMONADE, symbolizing a positive approach to difficulties.

  • The answer "ARO" is short for "aromantic," a term describing someone who experiences little to no romantic attraction. The clue specifies "informally," signaling the need for a shortened or casual term, making "ARO" the correct fit for this definition.

  • The answer ETALII is a Latin term meaning "and others" (plural form), often used to signify the continuation of a list, especially for people. It acts as a "list ender" in formal contexts, akin to "et al." in English, which is its singular form.

  • The clue "Kind of sax" refers to a type of saxophone. The tenor saxophone, commonly shortened to "tenor," is one of the main types of saxophones, alongside alto, soprano, and baritone. Thus, "TENOR" accurately fits as the answer for this clue.

  • BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, a standard measure of energy used to quantify the cooling capacity of air conditioners (A/C). This makes it directly relevant to the clue "A/C measure," as BTUs indicate how much heat an A/C unit can remove from a space.

  • The clue "Not so!," e.g. is in quotes, signaling a spoken or conversational phrase. "Not so!" is an example of a rejection or contradiction to a statement, which aligns with the word DENIAL, meaning a refusal or disagreement. Hence, DENIAL is the fitting solution.

  • The answer, SYNC, fits because it means to align or coordinate, often in timing or function, much like "lining up." The phrase "in a way" in the clue signals a metaphorical interpretation, making SYNC—short for "synchronize"—a perfect fit for this alignment-related context.

Down

  • The clue "Unforgettable place?" with a question mark hints at wordplay. The Alamo is a historic site in Texas, remembered for the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Its phrase "Remember the Alamo!" makes it a symbolic "unforgettable" place, tying the pun to the historical significance.

  • The solution "TINCT" comes from the word "tincture," which means a slight trace or bit of color. In this context, "Bit of color" directly points to TINCT as a synonym for a small hint or tinge of color.

  • The phrase "Seals the deal, informally" refers to securing or completing something decisively. "ICES IT" is slang, suggesting a confident finish or triumph, much like sealing a deal. "Ice" here informally conveys coolness or a final, conclusive step, fitting the casual tone of the clue.

  • "TEL" is short for "telephone," a common piece of contact information listed on a business card. As the clue specifies "Business card abbr.," it directly hints at abbreviated terms commonly found on business cards, making TEL the fitting answer.

  • The clue "Chic" modifier points to the French phrase "très chic," which translates to "very chic" in English. "Très" (French for "very") modifies "chic" to emphasize elegance or style, making TRES the perfect fit as the solution.

  • HEMP is a natural fiber obtained from the stalk of the hemp plant, historically used for making rope due to its strength and durability. The clue "Rope fiber" directly points to a material commonly associated with rope-making, making HEMP the precise solution.

  • The answer "ADO" fits the clue "Fuss" because "ado" directly means commotion, trouble, or fuss in English. It refers to unnecessary or excessive concern or excitement over something, aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning. This is a straightforward synonym-based clue.

  • The answer "TANDEM" refers to two things working together in coordination, often seen in phrases like "working in tandem." Since partners typically collaborate closely or act in unison, TANDEM perfectly fits the idea of how partners "work in this."

  • The clue "Oh yeah? Watch me!" is in quotes, signaling a spoken phrase. It suggests a defiant or confident retort, often used to express "I can do it too!" The playful tone matches the answer, ICANTOO, which directly conveys this spirited response.

  • The full name of T.S. Eliot, the famous poet, is Thomas Stearns Eliot. The clue refers to the middle name, "Stearns," which is abbreviated as the "S" in his initials, T.S. Hence, the answer is STEARNS.

  • The clue "Tried something new, perhaps" with the playful "perhaps" hints at an idiomatic phrase. "GAVE IT A GO" directly means attempting or trying something, particularly for the first time, aligning perfectly with the idea of "trying something new." It’s a casual, familiar expression.

  • The term "PLASTERED" is a slang word that means extremely drunk or intoxicated, which aligns perfectly with the clue "Drunk out of one's mind." The clue doesn't involve wordplay or additional nuance, so it's a straightforward definition-based solution.

  • The clue "Is not, informally" suggests a casual or nonstandard contraction. "Ain't" is an informal, colloquial way of saying "is not" or "are not," fitting perfectly as the answer. The word "informally" in the clue signals this relaxed, slang expression.

  • The clue "Cracked, as a door" suggests something slightly open but not fully. "Ajar" perfectly describes a door that is not completely closed — it is slightly open, or "cracked." This matches the definition and common usage of the word, making AJAR the correct answer.

  • The answer "LAICS" refers to laypeople, the non-clergy members of a church. A pastor's "flock" metaphorically represents their congregation, which includes laics (non-ordained members). This aligns with the clue, as the pastor guides the spiritual growth of both laics and clergy.

  • The answer "TOSCA" refers to the famous opera by Giacomo Puccini, first performed in 1900. Known for its dramatic story, intense emotions, and beautiful music, "Tosca" is one of Puccini's most renowned works, making it a fitting solution for the clue "Puccini opera."

  • The answer "NIA" refers to Nia Vardalos, an actress best known for her role in the film My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Her first name is a three-letter match for the clue, making it a perfect, concise solution.

  • The Koyukon Athabascans, Indigenous people of Alaska, originally named Denali, meaning "The High One," for the peak now known as the tallest mountain in North America. This culturally significant name predates its former name, Mount McKinley, reinstated officially as Denali in 2015.

  • The clue "Rio maker" refers to the Kia Rio, a compact car model manufactured by the automaker Kia. In this context, "Rio maker" cleverly points to the company responsible for producing this car, making "KIA" the correct answer.

  • The answer "LATENS" works because it refers to something becoming latent or hidden, metaphorically "darker." 'Say' at the end of the clue signals wordplay—this is not about literal darkness but describes something receding or becoming obscure, aligning with the definition of "latens."

  • The clue "Carousel, e.g." refers to an example of what a carousel is. A carousel is a type of amusement park attraction, which is commonly taken as a "RIDE." Hence, "RIDE" is the solution, as it categorizes a carousel's primary function.

  • The clue "Drink with a straw" straightforwardly refers to a common beverage that is often consumed using a straw. SODA fits perfectly, as it is widely served in cups or cans alongside a straw for sipping, making it an apt answer for this clue.

  • The answer "OPENHEART" refers to a well-known type of surgery performed on the heart, often involving opening the chest cavity to operate directly on the heart. The clue is straightforward, describing a literal type of surgery without any wordplay or trickery.

  • The phrase "BACKATYOU" is often a quick, conversational reply that can follow an insult or a compliment. It essentially mirrors the sentiment, flipping it back to the speaker. This playful or reciprocal remark aligns perfectly with the clue’s description of a follow-up to either tone.

  • The clue "They might be decked in December" contains wordplay referencing the Christmas carol lyric "Deck the Halls with boughs of holly." The answer is HALLS, as it refers to the festive act of decorating spaces (halls) during the holiday season.

  • In Morse code, the simplest units are "dots" and "dashes." A "dit" is the spoken representation of a dot, the shorter signal in Morse code. The clue "Morse bit" refers to this small part of the code, making DIT the correct answer.

  • The clue "Maligned" means to speak harmfully or falsely about someone, damaging their reputation. "DEFAMED" fits perfectly as it refers to the act of tarnishing someone's good name or character, aligning with the definition of "maligned." Both words convey the idea of reputation being harmed.

  • The answer "EMANATE" fits the clue "Send off" as it means to issue or flow out from a source, similar to sending off light, heat, or energy. It's a verb that captures the idea of something being released or radiating outward.

  • In the Bible, Sodom is one of the two infamous cities, alongside Gomorrah, known for their destruction due to wickedness (Genesis 19). The term "twin city" refers to this Biblical pairing. Thus, Sodom is a fitting answer as it is one of the two cities.

  • The term "ERA" refers to a significant or noteworthy time period in history, sports, or culture. In this context, "Notable time period" directly points to "ERA," as it's commonly used to describe distinct phases or ages, such as the Victorian Era or the Digital Era.

  • The clue refers to a resident of Japan's third-largest city, which is Osaka. Adding the suffix "-an" forms "Osakan," a demonym for someone from Osaka. This matches the clue’s straightforward request for the term describing a resident of that city.

  • The 2000 Summer Olympics were hosted in Sydney, Australia. As the clue asks for the "host" of the event, SYDNEY is the correct answer, referring to the city that organized and housed the games. This is a straightforward geography-based trivia clue.

  • The answer is JOANN because it is a two-syllable woman’s name (“Jo-Ann”). When you remove the last letter “N,” it becomes JOAN, which is a one-syllable woman’s name (“Joan”). The clue relies on the phonetic shift created by dropping the final letter.

  • The clue "Film portmanteau, informally" refers to a combination of "op-ed" (opinion editorial) and "documentary," resulting in "OPDOC." These are short, opinionated, documentary-style films often featured in publications like The New York Times, aligning with the informal term.

  • The Greek physician Paracelsus referred to beer as “divine medicine” due to its perceived healing properties in his time. Beer was believed to aid digestion, provide nutrients, and offer medicinal benefits. This clue uses playful wordplay, referencing historical beliefs rather than modern medical science.

  • The clue "Snatch" is a synonym-based clue. To "snatch" something means to seize it quickly or suddenly, which aligns perfectly with the word "GRAB." Both words describe an act of taking or capturing something in a forceful or swift manner.

  • The answer is ALIA because Alia Shawkat is a well-known actress who starred as Maeby Fünke in the TV series Arrested Development. The clue references her by name, making her first name, "Alia," the correct and direct answer.

  • The answer is NEIL because Neil deGrasse Tyson is a renowned astrophysicist, author, and science communicator. The clue directly refers to his well-known full name, with a blank indicating his first name. This straightforward factual clue leads to NEIL as the solution.

  • The answer "ELI" refers to a nickname for students or alumni of Yale University, an Ivy League school. It originates from Elihu Yale, a key benefactor of the university, making "ELI" a common shorthand for Yale-affiliated individuals.

  • The answer "OTS" stands for "overtimes." In sports, overtime periods (abbreviated as OTs) are often the most tense moments of a match as they decide the winner when teams are tied. The "for short" in the clue hints at the abbreviation.

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NYT The Crossword Archive

Today’s NYT The Crossword Highlights

Danna Rosenberg makes a memorable NYT Crossword debut with a tart, charming theme. The revealer, MAKE LEMONADE (61A), instructs solvers to find “lemons” hiding in longer entries (JANELLE MONÁE, TICKLE MONSTER, and ANKLE MONITORS) a neat discovery made even more satisfying when the payoff clicks. The grid is name-heavy (JANELLE, NIA, ALIA, NEIL, OSCAR I), which could challenge solvers less confident with pop culture or history, but the fill is mostly clean and fair. Highlights include PLASTERED, GAVE IT A GO, and the sly clue for ANKLE MONITORS. It’s a midweek grid with just the right mix of zest and bite.

Today's Tricky Wordplay

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NYT Crossword - All You Need To Know

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NYT Crossword Themes and Titles

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Themes

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While these patterns hold most of the time, creativity and playfulness are at the heart of crossword construction—so expect occasional surprises!

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