Giving up one's amateur status - NYT The Crossword Clue

The answer "ASTO" works for the clue "Regarding" because "as to" is a common phrase used to mean "concerning" or "with respect to," which aligns with the meaning of "regarding." It's a straightforward substitution based on synonymous phrasing.

In this clue, "Hail" is used as a verb meaning to praise or honor highly. The word "LAUD" is a synonym for this type of praise, aligning perfectly with the clue's intent. This is a straightforward definition clue without wordplay.

The clue "Draw" uses a double meaning. Beyond indicating a tie in a game, "draw" can also mean to attract or entice something, which aligns with the word "LURE." A lure is used to draw in or attract someone or something, such as in fishing or by temptation.

The clue "Days or Knights follower" uses wordplay, referencing how "days" and "knights" can precede "inn" to form "Days Inn" or "Knights Inn," both well-known hotel chains. This clever pairing leads to the answer: INN.

The clue "Finger painting?" has a question mark, signaling wordplay. It's a pun referring to decorative designs painted on fingernails, which is commonly called "NAIL ART." The association between "finger" (where nails are located) and "painting" (the artistic activity) leads directly to NAILART.

ARGUS is the many-eyed giant from Greek mythology. Known as "Argus Panoptes" ("all-seeing"), he had numerous eyes and served as a watchful guardian for Hera. His myth is most famous in the story of guarding Io, later slain by Hermes. The clue directly references his defining trait—many eyes.

The answer is TOPIC because "Hot Topic" is a well-known retail chain that specializes in fast-fashion, especially pop culture-inspired clothing and accessories. The clue refers to the company's name directly, filling in "Hot ___" with its continuation, "Topic."

The clue "Like triplets vis-à-vis twins" compares the rarity of triplets to that of twins. Since triplets occur less frequently in nature compared to twins, they are described as "RARER." The wordplay emphasizes the comparative rarity.

The clue "Botheration" is a synonym-based clue. "Ado" means fuss, commotion, or trouble, which aligns with the idea of bother or annoyance that "Botheration" conveys. It's a direct synonym for the word, making it the correct answer.

The solution "ADORBS" is a slang abbreviation of "adorable," commonly used to describe something extremely cute or endearing ("Cute to the max"). It matches the playful tone of the clue, often seen in casual or informal contexts to express an exaggerated level of cuteness.

The clue "Standard bicycle propulsion" refers to the typical method of propelling a bicycle. Bicycles are powered by the rider pressing on the pedals, transferring energy to move the bike. This mechanism is commonly termed "PEDAL POWER," making it the correct answer.

The phrase "Upper echelon" refers to the highest level or rank within a group or society. "ELITE" is a term commonly used to describe a select group regarded as superior in status, hierarchy, or quality, perfectly aligning with the clue's definition.

The clue "Patronizes a four-star restaurant, say" suggests the act of visiting or frequenting such a place. "DINES" fits as it means eating a meal, specifically in a formal or refined setting like a four-star restaurant. "Say" hints at this as an example or interpretation.

The answer "NODE" fits "Central point" because a node represents a critical or central connection point in networks, such as in communication systems, transportation, or biology (e.g., lymph nodes). It symbolizes a hub or intersection where activity converges, aligning perfectly with the concept of a central point.

The clue "Pass over" suggests skipping or leaving something out. The word "OMIT" means to exclude or leave out intentionally, fitting perfectly with the definition provided by the clue. It's a straightforward synonym match without additional wordplay or tricks.

An atomizer is a device designed to spray liquid in a fine, dispersed form. Its output is typically a fine spray or vapor, which resembles "MIST." This fits the clue literally, as mist is the result when an atomizer disperses liquid droplets into the air.

The word "ALIT" means "descended" or "landed," often used to describe coming to rest gently, such as a bird alighting on a branch. In this context, "Came to rest" refers to settling or stopping movement, making ALIT the fitting solution.

The clue "The 'E' in HOMES" refers to the acronym HOMES, which represents the five Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior. The "E" specifically stands for Lake Erie, making "ERIE" the correct answer.

The clue "Some comfy kicks?" uses the word "kicks" as a playful term for footwear. "MOCS" is short for moccasins, which are known for their soft, comfortable design, making them a perfect fit for this clue's description of "comfy kicks." The casual tone points to this relaxed shoe style.

The answer is POETRYSLAM because a poetry slam is a competitive spoken-word performance event where poets recite original works. The clue specifically refers to a "spoken-word event," directly pointing to this vibrant, interactive form of expression.

The answer is ORK because Mork, played by Robin Williams, was a character from the popular sitcom Mork & Mindy (1978-1982). He was an alien from the planet Ork, sent to Earth to study human behavior, making ORK his home planet in the show.

The answer is RUE because Rue Bennett, portrayed by Zendaya, is the main character and narrator of the HBO series "Euphoria." She provides voiceovers that guide viewers through the storylines, making her the narrator referenced in the clue.

The answer "BIN" fits because a bin is a commonly used container for storing items, aligning directly with the clue "Storage container." It is a straightforward and literal connection, requiring no wordplay or additional interpretation.

The clue "Peddle" means to sell goods, often by going from place to place. "VEND" is a synonym for selling, particularly in a formal or commercial sense, which perfectly matches the definition. Hence, VEND is the correct answer.

The clue "Tacks on" means to append or attach something additional. The word "ADDS" directly fits this definition, as it means to include or increase something by attaching it. Both the clue and answer align in their meaning of supplementing or appending.

The clue "Vampire double feature?" suggests a play on words. Vampires are famously known for their fangs, and "double feature" humorously hints at their two prominent sharp teeth. Thus, "FANG" is the apt solution, cleverly embodying the dual vampire "feature."

The clue "What a pity!" is enclosed in quotes, signaling a spoken phrase. "Alas" is an expression of sorrow or pity, often used to lament an unfortunate situation, making it the perfect match for the clue.

The clue "Catches some rays" is a play on words. It hints at the activity of sunbathing, where one "catches rays" of sunlight. The result of prolonged exposure to the sun is a tan, making "TANS" the correct answer.

The solution "BORSCHT" fits "Sour soup" because borscht is a traditional Eastern European soup, often made with beets, and commonly includes souring agents like vinegar, lemon juice, or sour cream. Its notable tangy flavor aligns perfectly with the "sour" descriptor in the clue.

The clue "Rates of return" uses wordplay. "YIELDS" refers to financial returns, like interest or profits, but also to the act of giving back or returning something. The double meaning cleverly ties both interpretations to the idea of "rates" or amounts associated with returns.

Austin Powers is a comedic parody of the suave and action-packed British spy archetype, epitomized by James Bond. The exaggerated traits and spy clichés in the Austin Powers movies mimic Bond's character, making "BOND" the fitting answer to "Whom Austin Powers parodies."

San Francisco is famously associated with frequent fog due to its unique geography and climate, especially during summer months. The clue uses "frequently" to highlight this well-known characteristic, making "FOGGY" the apt solution.

The answer is LAURA because Laura Bush was the First Lady of the United States from 2001 to 2009, during the presidency of her husband, George W. Bush. The clue "Early 2000s first lady" directly refers to her tenure in that role.

The clue "Hangs in there" refers to managing or enduring a challenging situation. "Copes" means handling difficulties or persevering through tough circumstances, which matches the phrase's meaning. The answer captures the essence of staying resilient and "hanging in there" under pressure.

A "libretto" is the text or script of a musical work, especially in opera. Operas consist of music paired with a written libretto, which outlines the dialogue and story. Thus, the "work" in the clue refers to an opera, which specifically utilizes a libretto.

The word "LEERY" means cautious or wary, which directly aligns with the definition of "Distrustful." It conveys hesitation or suspicion, often when someone has doubts or fears about a situation or person. This straightforward synonym makes it the correct answer to the clue.

The ibis was a sacred bird in ancient Egyptian culture, often associated with the god Thoth, the deity of wisdom and writing. The ibis' presence in Egyptian art and religious iconography highlights its revered status, making it the perfect answer to this clue.

The clue "Contents of some carriers" refers to portable pet carriers, which are used to transport animals like cats and dogs. These "contents" are often household pets, making "PETS" the correct solution. The clue plays on the idea of pets being carried safely in such containers.

An ARIA is a solo vocal piece performed by one singer in an opera, often serving as the emotional or musical highlight of the performance. That's why it's clued as the "Highlight of a 48-Down."

The answer is SKI because both "ski run" and "ski lift" are common terms in skiing. A ski run refers to a downhill path for skiing, and a ski lift is a transportation system that takes skiers up the mountain. Thus, "SKI" fits perfectly as the word for both.

The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is located in Dubai, which is part of the United Arab Emirates. The clue says "in brief," signaling the abbreviation of United Arab Emirates, which is "UAE." Thus, UAE is the correct and concise answer.