The clue "Small amounts, as of hair gel" hints at tiny applications or portions. "DABS" perfectly fits, as it refers to small touches or amounts, often used when applying substances like gel or cream. The plural form aligns with multiple "small amounts" described in the clue.
5Victor ___, author of "Les Misérables"HUGO????✨ See Why
The answer is HUGO because Victor Hugo is the famous French author of Les Misérables, a classic 19th-century novel. The blank in the clue points to his last name, making HUGO the correct fit.
9Ankle bonesTARSI?????✨ See Why
The clue "Ankle bones" refers to the group of small bones in the foot located between the leg and the metatarsals, collectively called the tarsal bones. "TARSI" is the plural form of "tarsus," aligning perfectly as the anatomical term for ankle bones in crossword context.
14Prefix with science or potentOMNI????✨ See Why
The prefix "OMNI" means "all" or "universal," making it a perfect fit for both "omniscience" (all-knowing, related to science) and "omnipotent" (all-powerful, related to potent). Hence, "OMNI" is the correct prefix for this clue.
15"Now!," in a rush orderASAP????✨ See Why
The clue "Now!," in a rush order suggests urgency. "ASAP" stands for "As Soon As Possible," a common term used to indicate immediate action or haste. The quotation marks in the clue imply a spoken expression or command, matching the essence of "ASAP."
16Some fast-food sandwichesWRAPS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Some fast-food sandwiches" refers to a type of sandwich commonly found in fast-food menus. WRAPS are sandwiches made with fillings rolled in flatbreads, such as tortillas, fitting the category. The word "Some" hints at a specific subset of fast-food sandwiches, aligning perfectly with wraps.
17Emmy-winning actress for "Hacks"JEANSMART?????????✨ See Why
The answer is JEANSMART because Jean Smart is the Emmy-winning actress who plays the lead role of Deborah Vance in the popular TV series "Hacks." She won Emmy awards for her outstanding performance in the show, making her the accurate solution to this clue.
19Chile de ___ (very spicy pepper)ARBOL?????✨ See Why
The clue "Chile de ___ (very spicy pepper)" refers to a specific type of pepper commonly used in Mexican cuisine. The answer is ARBOL, completing "Chile de Árbol," a variety of hot chili pepper. "Árbol" means "tree" in Spanish, describing the pepper's thin, woody stem.
20Seed used to flavor ouzoANISE?????✨ See Why
The answer is ANISE because ouzo, a traditional Greek liquor, is flavored with anise seeds, which give it its distinctive licorice-like taste. The clue specifies "Seed," directly pointing to the botanical source, anise seed, used for flavoring ouzo.
21Tiny computer unitBIT???✨ See Why
The answer "BIT" fits the clue "Tiny computer unit" because in computing, a bit (short for "binary digit") is the smallest unit of data. It represents a single binary value, either 0 or 1, making it a fundamental building block of digital information.
23Double-reed woodwindOBOE????✨ See Why
The answer "OBOE" is correct because the oboe is a woodwind instrument played using a double reed, which consists of two pieces of cane vibrating together to produce sound. This matches the clue's description precisely, as it directly refers to this type of instrument.
24Only person in the arts ever to be named Time's Person of the YearTAYLORSWIFT???????????✨ See Why
The answer is TAYLOR SWIFT because she was recognized as Time's Person of the Year in 2017, specifically as part of the "Silence Breakers" movement. She is one of the most influential modern artists, bridging music and cultural influence, fulfilling the "only person in the arts" aspect of the clue.
28Belief systemsISMS????✨ See Why
The answer "ISMS" refers to suffixes used in words that denote belief systems or ideologies, such as communism, nationalism, or Buddhism. The clue speaks broadly to "belief systems," aligning with the conceptual use of "-isms" to categorize such systems. Hence, "ISMS" fits perfectly.
32TwerpWIENIE??????✨ See Why
The clue "Twerp" refers to someone deemed silly, annoying, or insignificant. "WIENIE" (a spelling variant of "weenie") is often used slangily to describe a weak, petty, or foolish person, aligning with the clue's meaning. The informal tone matches the playful nature of the word.
33Numbers with four digitsTHOUSANDS?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Numbers with four digits" refers to numerical values that consist of exactly four digits, such as 1000 to 9999. These numbers represent the range of thousands. Thus, "THOUSANDS" accurately describes numbers with four digits.
35What a subject and a verb should doAGREE?????✨ See Why
The answer "AGREE" is fitting because, in grammar, a subject and a verb must align in number and person. For instance, a singular subject requires a singular verb, and a plural subject requires a plural verb. This alignment is called "subject-verb agreement," making "AGREE" the correct solution.
40With 41-Across, former "S.N.L." regular who played Gemma and Cathy AnneCECILY??????✨ See Why
The answer is CECILY because it refers to Cecily Strong, a former regular cast member of "Saturday Night Live" (S.N.L.). She portrayed characters like Gemma and Cathy Anne during her time on the show. The clue specifies "With 41-Across" because her last name "Strong" appears as the answer to 41-Across.
41See 40-AcrossSTRONG??????✨ See Why
STRONG is the second part of the answer CECILY STRONG, the former SNL cast member known for characters like Gemma and Cathy Anne.
42"___ la vista!"HASTA?????✨ See Why
The clue "___ la vista!" is a well-known Spanish phrase, famously translated as "See you later!" The blank space is filled by "HASTA," forming "HASTA la vista!" This matches the phrase exactly and aligns with the foreign language (Spanish) context of the clue.
43Reduces, as profitsBITESINTO?????????✨ See Why
The phrase "bites into" metaphorically describes something that reduces or diminishes, as when profits are "bitten into" by expenses or losses. This captures the idea of a decrease or reduction, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Reduces, as profits."
46Unit of corn or wisdomKERNEL??????✨ See Why
The answer is KERNEL because it refers to a single grain or "unit" of corn. Additionally, "kernel" can metaphorically mean the core or essential part of something, often associated with "wisdom" or fundamental truth. The pun in the clue ties these meanings together cleverly.
48___ Congeniality (pageant title)MISS????✨ See Why
The answer is MISS because "Miss Congeniality" is a well-known title awarded in beauty pageants to the contestant deemed most friendly and welcoming. The blank (___) suggests a single word fits, and "Miss" is the appropriate title used in this context.
49She played Serena on "Gossip Girl"BLAKELIVELY???????????✨ See Why
The solution is BLAKE LIVELY because she is the actress who portrayed Serena van der Woodsen, a central character on the popular TV series Gossip Girl. The clue directly references her role, making her name the correct and straightforward answer.
54Take in, as a salaryEARN????✨ See Why
The term “Take in” here refers to receiving or acquiring something, and “as a salary” specifies that it's related to income from work. The verb EARN fits perfectly, as it means to gain money or compensation as a result of labor or service.
55___-Caps (candy)SNO???✨ See Why
The answer is SNO because "Sno-Caps" is a popular brand of candy. These are small chocolate drops covered with white candy sprinkles. The blank in "___-Caps" signals the missing first part of the candy's name, which is "Sno." This phrase matches the clue perfectly.
56Very, veryULTRA?????✨ See Why
The answer "ULTRA" works because it signifies an extreme degree or going beyond, which aligns with the clue "Very, very." Both convey an intensification or a superlative level, making "ULTRA" (extremely) a fitting synonym for "very, very."
61Say hello toGREET?????✨ See Why
The clue "Say hello to" directly suggests an action associated with acknowledging someone upon meeting, which is to "GREET." To "greet" someone is the act of saying hello or welcoming them, fitting perfectly with the clue's straightforward phrasing.
63Slogan that celebrates a young woman's confidence and independence ... or a hint to 17-, 24-, 40-/41- and 49-AcrossGIRLPOWER?????????✨ See Why
The answer "GIRLPOWER" encapsulates the idea of confidence and independence in young women, aligning with the clue's description. Additionally, the puzzle’s theme, GIRLPOWER, connects to famous women whose last names—SMART, SWIFT, STRONG, and LIVELY—double as empowering adjectives.
66Face shapesOVALS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Face shapes" refers to common geometric shapes used to describe faces. One of the most typical face shapes is an oval, which is smooth and elongated. Because "shapes" is plural in the clue, the answer is also plural: OVALS.
67Eight, in EnsenadaOCHO????✨ See Why
The clue "Eight, in Ensenada" includes "Ensenada," a Spanish-speaking city, signaling the answer is in Spanish. "Eight" translates to "OCHO" in Spanish, making it the correct solution.
68Have a meal by candlelight, sayDINE????✨ See Why
The clue "Have a meal by candlelight, say" suggests eating in a formal or romantic setting. "DINE" means to eat a meal, often associated with a more refined or special occasion, such as a candlelit dinner. The "say" indicates a descriptive or interpretive aspect, making DINE appropriate.
69Small sampleTASTE?????✨ See Why
The answer "TASTE" fits the clue "Small sample" because "taste" can refer to trying a small amount of food or drink to sample or test its flavor. It directly relates to experiencing just a little portion, matching "small sample" perfectly.
70Gas in some lighted signsNEON????✨ See Why
NEON is the answer because it is a noble gas commonly used in illuminated signs due to its ability to emit bright, colorful light when electrically charged. Neon signs are iconic for their vibrant glow, often found in advertisements and decorations, making it a perfect fit for the clue.
71Split ___ (hair problem)ENDS????✨ See Why
The clue "Split ___ (hair problem)" refers to a common hair issue, split ends. Split ends occur when the tips of hair strands fray or split, making "ENDS" the fitting solution to complete the phrase. The clue directly describes this condition.
Down
1Rapper ___ CatDOJA????✨ See Why
The answer is DOJA because the clue refers to the stage name of the popular rapper and singer Doja Cat. Known for hits like "Say So" and "Kiss Me More," her unique moniker fits perfectly in the blank. This is a straightforward clue about a well-known artist.
2"You said it, brother!"AMEN????✨ See Why
The clue "You said it, brother!" is enclosed in quotes, indicating a spoken or exclamatory phrase. "Amen" is commonly spoken in agreement or affirmation, especially in religious or heartfelt contexts, often with "brother" used conversationally. Thus, "Amen" aptly fits the clue's tone and context.
3___ B'rith (Jewish organization)BNAI????✨ See Why
The answer "BNAI" refers to "B'nai B'rith," a well-known Jewish organization. In Hebrew, "B'nai" means "sons of," making the organization's name translate to "Sons of the Covenant." It’s focused on Jewish advocacy, human rights, and community service, fitting the clue perfectly.
4Sloth and gluttony, for twoSINS????✨ See Why
Sloth and gluttony are two of the "seven deadly sins" in Christian theology, which highlight moral failings or vices. The clue specifies "for two," indicating two examples from this group. Therefore, the answer is SINS, referring to these vices as part of that broader category.
5Nonkosher meatHAM???✨ See Why
HAM is the solution because it is a type of pork, which is considered nonkosher according to Jewish dietary laws. These laws prohibit the consumption of pork and its derivatives, making HAM an ideal answer for the clue "Nonkosher meat."
62015 and 2019 Women's World Cup soccer champsUSA???✨ See Why
The USA (United States of America) women's soccer team won the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2015 and 2019. They defeated Japan (2015) and the Netherlands (2019) to secure the championship, showcasing their dominance in international soccer during these years.
7In mixed-up conditionGARBLED???????✨ See Why
The word "GARBLED" means confused, distorted, or jumbled, aligning directly with the clue "In mixed-up condition." Something garbled is not clear or coherent, often as a result of being mixed up, perfectly matching the clue's description.
8ChoicesOPTIONS???????✨ See Why
The clue "Choices" directly aligns with the definition of the word "OPTIONS." Both represent a range of alternatives or possibilities available for selection. In this context, the answer straightforwardly reflects the synonymic relationship between "Choices" and "OPTIONS," making it a clear and logical solution.
9Carrier whose former terminal at J.F.K. is now a hotelTWA???✨ See Why
TWA (Trans World Airlines) was a prominent airline whose iconic, futuristic terminal at JFK Airport, designed by Eero Saarinen, ceased operations in 2001. This terminal was later transformed into the TWA Hotel, making TWA the fitting answer to the clue referencing its former terminal's new role as a hotel.
10-->ARROW?????✨ See Why
The clue likely involves wordplay or reference to direction, pointing, or a symbol used in navigation or diagrams. An ARROW is a literal indicator of direction or movement, and it frequently fits such clues due to its clear association with guiding or pointing.
11Companion of a priest and a minister in many a jokeRABBI?????✨ See Why
The clue refers to a common setup in jokes, where a priest, a minister, and a rabbi, representing different faiths, find themselves in humorous situations. A rabbi is a Jewish spiritual leader, making them the clear "companion" in this interfaith trio.
12ParodySPOOF?????✨ See Why
The clue "Parody" directly aligns with the answer SPOOF. Both words describe a humorous imitation, often exaggerated, of something, like a movie or a person, for comedic effect. This is a straightforward synonym clue, with "spoof" being another term for "parody."
13Part of an atollISLET?????✨ See Why
An atoll is a ring-shaped coral reef that often encircles a lagoon, and it’s typically made up of small land masses. An "islet" is a very small island, fitting as a "part of an atoll" since atolls are often made up of multiple tiny islets.
18It comes between "ready" and "go"SET???✨ See Why
The phrase "ready, set, go" is a common sequence used to start races or activities. In this sequence, "set" is the word that directly comes between "ready" and "go," making it the correct answer to the clue.
22Swim-bike-run race, for shortTRI???✨ See Why
The answer "TRI" is short for "triathlon," a race that combines swimming, biking, and running. The clue specifies "for short," indicating the need for an abbreviation. "TRI" effectively captures the first three letters of "triathlon," representing the event in a condensed form.
25On vacation, sayAWAY????✨ See Why
The clue "On vacation, say" implies being absent or not present. The word "say" indicates it’s a loose definition or example. "Away" perfectly fits as it describes being elsewhere, often used to indicate being on vacation or out of town.
26Yang's counterpartYIN???✨ See Why
The clue "Yang's counterpart" refers to the concept of Yin and Yang in Chinese philosophy, which represents dualities like light/dark or masculine/feminine. Yin is the counterpart to Yang, embodying qualities like darkness, passivity, and femininity, while Yang represents light, activity, and masculinity. Hence, the answer is YIN.
27Accommodates, as on a busSEATS?????✨ See Why
The answer "SEATS" fits because seats on a bus are what physically "accommodate" passengers. To "accommodate" here means providing space or capacity, and seats are the primary means by which a bus fulfills this purpose. This ties the clue directly to the answer in a straightforward way.
28Scratch that!ITCH????✨ See Why
The clue "Scratch that!" ends with an exclamation mark, signaling wordplay. Here, "Scratch" hints at the sensation you'd want to relieve by scratching—an ITCH. It's a play on both the act of scratching and the reason for it, making ITCH the perfect fit.
29Former stadium for the MetsSHEA????✨ See Why
SHEA is the answer because Shea Stadium was the former home of the New York Mets, an MLB team. The stadium, named after lawyer William A. Shea, opened in 1964 and was replaced by Citi Field in 2009. The clue directly references this historic association.
30Slip-on shoes, familiarlyMOCS????✨ See Why
The answer "MOCS" is short for "moccasins," which are a type of slip-on shoe. The clue uses "familiarly" to indicate an informal or abbreviated term, leading to the casual shortening of "moccasins" to "MOCS."
31Hearts or clubsSUIT????✨ See Why
The answer is SUIT because both "hearts" and "clubs" are card suits in a standard deck of playing cards. The clue refers to these groups collectively as "suits," making SUIT the correct solution.
34QuenchSLAKE?????✨ See Why
The word "Quench" means to satisfy a thirst or extinguish something like fire. "SLAKE" is a synonym for quench, specifically referring to satisfying a thirst or desire. It fits the definition directly, making it the correct solution for the clue.
36Gloomy, as newsGRIM????✨ See Why
The clue "Gloomy, as news" seeks a synonym for "gloomy" that fits the tone of bad or disheartening news. "GRIM" is an apt match as it describes something bleak, serious, or dismal in nature, perfectly aligning with the mood of troubling news.
37Rice-A-___RONI????✨ See Why
The answer "RONI" completes the trademarked phrase "Rice-A-Roni," a well-known American brand of seasoned rice and pasta mix. The brand's jingle, "The San Francisco Treat," further popularized the name. This clue relies on its cultural recognition and branding rather than wordplay or direct definition.
38Docs treating tonsillitisENTS????✨ See Why
The answer "ENTS" refers to Ear, Nose, and Throat specialists, also called otolaryngologists. These doctors commonly treat tonsillitis, which affects the throat and tonsils. The abbreviation "ENT" is widely recognized in medical contexts, matching the clue's description of "Docs treating tonsillitis."
39Inflated ones can be bruisedEGOS????✨ See Why
The clue uses wordplay: "inflated ones" refers to inflated egos, a metaphor for excessive self-importance. "Can be bruised" highlights the vulnerability of egos to emotional damage. Together, it points to "EGOS" as the answer—self-importance can easily be "bruised" when challenged or hurt.
41Bear market orderSELL????✨ See Why
In a "bear market," stock prices are falling, prompting investors to anticipate more declines. The "order" refers to a directive or action. Investors typically "SELL" stocks in a bear market to minimize losses or cut their holdings, making "SELL" the fitting answer.
43Give rise toBRINGON???????✨ See Why
The phrase "Bring on" means to cause or initiate something, effectively matching "give rise to," which refers to causing or starting something to happen. It aligns with the straightforward meaning of the clue without wordplay or additional context.
44BillINVOICE???????✨ See Why
The clue "Bill" refers to a statement of charges or a list of amounts owed for goods or services provided. An "INVOICE" is exactly such a document, making it the correct answer. This clue leverages a straightforward synonym relationship.
45Shirt that's sometimes tie-dyedTEE???✨ See Why
The answer is TEE because "Tee" (short for T-shirt) is a common style of shirt, often used as a canvas for tie-dye designs. The clue directly references a shirt type, and the playful tie-dye detail points to the casual, colorful nature of T-shirts.
47Chicago trainsELS???✨ See Why
The answer "ELS" refers to the elevated trains in Chicago, commonly called "the L" or "EL" for "elevated." These are the city's iconic rapid transit trains that run above ground on elevated tracks, making "ELS" a fitting and concise solution to the clue "Chicago trains."
49SiredBEGOT?????✨ See Why
The clue "Sired" refers to fathering offspring, often in an older or more formal context. "BEGOT" is an archaic past tense of "beget," which means to father or bring into existence. This matches the clue's meaning, as both involve the act of fathering.
50Stage before pupa in metamorphosisLARVA?????✨ See Why
In insect metamorphosis, the LARVA is the juvenile, worm-like stage that occurs before the pupa stage. This stage is crucial for growth before transforming into the adult form, making it the correct answer as it directly fits the natural progression: egg → larva → pupa → adult.
51RegionsAREAS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Regions" directly relates to "AREAS" as both words are synonyms. In this context, "Regions" refers to sections, zones, or parts of a space, which is precisely what "AREAS" denotes. There's no wordplay or special twists here—it's a straightforward synonym.
52Prepared to be knightedKNELT?????✨ See Why
The clue "Prepared to be knighted" refers to the act required during a knighting ceremony. Traditionally, individuals kneel before the monarch to be dubbed a knight. "Prepared" hints at the past tense, so the answer is KNELT, the past tense of "kneel," fitting the context perfectly.
53"Uh-huh"YUP???✨ See Why
The clue "Uh-huh" is enclosed in quotes, signaling a spoken expression. "YUP" is a casual, affirmative response similar in tone and meaning to "Uh-huh," making it the correct answer as they both indicate agreement or confirmation.
57Vein of oreLODE????✨ See Why
The answer "LODE" fits because a "lode" is a rich deposit of a mineral or ore in the earth, typically found in a vein-like formation. The clue directly points to this geological term, making "LODE" the correct and literal solution for "Vein of ore."
58Mattress size smaller than a fullTWIN????✨ See Why
The answer is TWIN because mattress sizes follow a standard hierarchy: Twin, Full, Queen, and King. A Twin mattress is the size directly smaller than a Full, making it the correct solution to the clue "Mattress size smaller than a full."
59Tear to piecesREND????✨ See Why
The verb "rend" means to tear something apart forcefully or violently, which directly corresponds to the clue "Tear to pieces." Both the clue and the answer describe an intense act of tearing, making "rend" the perfect fit for this straightforward clue.
60Greek war godARES????✨ See Why
ARES is the correct answer because he is the Greek god of war in mythology, known for representing courage, conflict, and violence. The clue directly asks for the "Greek war god," making ARES the straightforward fit.
62When doubled, it's a flyTSE???✨ See Why
The answer is TSE because when "doubled," it forms "TSETSE," referencing the tsetse fly, an insect found in Africa. The clue plays on doubling the letters to derive the name of this specific fly. It’s a classic wordplay clue where the hint lies in repetition.
64Letter after piRHO???✨ See Why
In the Greek alphabet, Π (pi) is immediately followed by Ρ (rho). Many crossword clues involving Greek letters rely on their sequential order, so "Letter after pi" directly refers to RHO, the Greek letter that comes next in this sequence.
65Chaney who played QuasimodoLON???✨ See Why
The answer is "LON" because Lon Chaney was a famous actor known for his roles in silent horror films. He notably played Quasimodo in the 1923 film adaptation of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The clue specifically refers to his first name, Lon.
This Monday puzzle was trickier than expected, but its clever theme made it worth the challenge. The revealer GIRLPOWER ties together famous women whose last names are adjectives—SMART, SWIFT, STRONG, LIVELY—all reinforcing the idea of confidence and energy. It’s a fun and empowering wordplay-based theme, blending pop culture and language in a fresh way. Cluing was solid, though a bit more challenging than a typical Monday, especially with trickier fill like GARBLED, BITESINTO, and SLAKE. A creative and satisfying start to the week!
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.
Print: Access the daily Crossword by subscribing to Home Delivery or purchasing a copy of The New York Times newspaper at your local newsstand.
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.
Sunday Puzzles: Available at 6 p.m. EST on Saturday.
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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.
Check: Validates a square, word, or the entire puzzle; Autocheck option available.
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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