In chess, being "mated" refers to being checkmated, a situation where the king is in a position to be captured and no legal moves can prevent it. "Beat at chess" directly describes this scenario, making MATED the perfect fit for the clue.
6Speech therapists' targetsLISPS?????✨ See Why
The answer "LISPS" fits because speech therapists often work with individuals to correct or improve speech impediments, such as lisps. A lisp is a common speech disorder where certain sounds, like "s" or "z," are pronounced incorrectly, making it a target of therapy.
11Adds to the chain, in a wayCCS???✨ See Why
The answer "CCS" refers to adding people to an email chain using the "CC" (carbon copy) field. "Adds to the chain, in a way" uses wordplay by interpreting "chain" as an email thread, and adding CC recipients extends that chain.
14OBELI?????✨ See Why
The answer "OBELI" refers to dagger-like symbols (†) historically used in manuscripts to mark doubtful or spurious text. The plural form of "obelus," these symbols were commonly employed by ancient scholars to annotate or highlight specific content, fitting the clue's description of "daggerlike symbols on manuscripts."
15SquareUNHIP?????✨ See Why
The clue "Square" is a slang term for someone considered old-fashioned or out of touch, which is synonymous with "UNHIP." The playful use of "Square" here hints at its informal meaning rather than the geometric shape, making UNHIP the perfect fit.
16It may be brown or blondeALE???✨ See Why
The clue "It may be brown or blonde" refers to types of ale, a category of beer. Ales can be described by their color, often "brown" (a darker, maltier variety) or "blonde" (a lighter, golden-hued beer). This wordplay points to ale as the solution.
17COMMONSNIPE???????????✨ See Why
A sarcastic remark like “Nice of you to show up” is a common snipe — with SNIPING being a kind of verbal jab. The bird is a SNIPE, and the “call” is a snipe in the social sense.
19Something to play byEAR???✨ See Why
The phrase "Something to play by" refers to the common expression "play it by ear," which means to improvise or decide on actions as a situation unfolds, often without a pre-set plan. "Ear" fits perfectly as the solution due to this idiom.
20Marching syllableHUP???✨ See Why
"HUP" is the solution because it is a common syllable used in military calls or chants to synchronize marching. Drill instructors often command "Hup, two, three, four" to set the rhythm for soldiers' steps, making "HUP" a recognizable marching-related sound.
21Utter nonsenseROT???✨ See Why
The answer "ROT" works for "Utter nonsense" because "rot" is a term often used to describe meaningless or absurd talk. It's a casual synonym for nonsense, fitting the clue's straightforward nature perfectly.
22Vocal flourish used by Lady Gaga in "Shallow" and "Bad Romance"MELISMA???????✨ See Why
The answer MELISMA refers to a vocal technique involving the singing of multiple notes on a single syllable. Lady Gaga showcases this vocal flourish in songs like "Shallow" and "Bad Romance," where she adds expressive, elongated runs and embellishments—hallmarks of melismatic singing.
24Tries, tries againITERATES????????✨ See Why
The clue "Tries, tries again" refers to the act of repeating attempts, which aligns with the definition of "ITERATES." To iterate means to repeatedly do or say something, often for refinement or emphasis, matching the concept of trying repeatedly.
27Univision articleUNA???✨ See Why
The clue "Univision article" includes a hint through "Univision," a Spanish-language network, indicating the answer is in Spanish. In Spanish, the definite articles for "a" or "an" are gendered. "Una" is the feminine singular form, aligning with "article" as a grammatical term. Thus, the answer is UNA.
28AMERICANCROW????????????✨ See Why
The clue uses wordplay and patriotic irony. “Hey, England, happy Fourth!” is ironic and proud, a patriotic call from an AMERICAN, and the bird is a CROW. So, this is an AMERICAN CROW, making a loud, bold statement.
33Cow or cobra, in yogaASANA?????✨ See Why
In yoga, "asana" refers to physical postures or poses. Both Cow Pose (Bitilasana) and Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) are specific asanas practiced for flexibility and strength. Thus, "Cow or cobra" are examples of asanas, making ASANA the correct answer.
36Do it!TASK????✨ See Why
The clue "Do it!" suggests performing or accomplishing something. A "TASK" is something that needs to be done, aligning perfectly with the instruction "Do it!" The answer reflects the act of completing or carrying out a designated duty or action.
37Suffix with Sudan or BhutanESE???✨ See Why
The suffix -ese is commonly used to denote languages, nationalities, or attributes relating to a place, such as Sudanese (from Sudan) or Bhutanese (from Bhutan). Therefore, "ESE" is the correct suffix completing words tied to these countries.
38With 41-Across, a hint to this puzzle's themeBIRD????✨ See Why
This is the first half of the theme phrase. Together with 41-Across, it spells BIRD CALL, hinting that each theme entry contains a bird and a call — a punny phrase or line. It primes solvers to think about how birds "speak" and how that might relate to human language or expressions.
39Stereotypical attire for tech bros VESTS?????✨ See Why
The answer "VESTS" fits because tech bros stereotypically favor wearing puffer or fleece vests, often over casual shirts, blending a semi-formal and practical Silicon Valley-inspired look. This attire is associated with startup culture and entrepreneurs in the tech industry. The clue captures this iconic wardrobe choice succinctly.
41See 38-AcrossCALL????✨ See Why
This is the second half of the theme reveal. When paired with 38-Across, it completes the phrase BIRD CALL, which cleverly encapsulates the puzzle’s gimmick: each theme answer is a bird + a human-style "call" (line or quip), combining ornithology with wit.
42Head into?RAM???✨ See Why
The clue "Head into?" with a question mark implies wordplay. "Ram" fits as it describes an action of forcefully driving or "heading into" something, much like how a ram (the animal) uses its head to butt. The pun ties the literal and figurative meanings together.
43Speak hoarselyRASP????✨ See Why
"RASP" is the correct answer because it refers to a harsh, grating sound, often associated with speaking in a hoarse or rough voice. It directly describes the vocal quality one has when speaking hoarsely, aligning perfectly with the clue.
44___ blanc (type of white grape)PINOT?????✨ See Why
The clue "___ blanc (type of white grape)" refers to a specific variety of grape. Pinot Blanc is a type of white grape used in winemaking. The blank in the clue is filled with "Pinot," which forms the name "Pinot Blanc," directly matching the description.
45AMAZONPARROT????????????✨ See Why
Alexa responds with “Goodnight Alexa,” mimicking the speaker. That’s a parrot move, parroting, literally. The bird is a PARROT, and the call is repeating, just like Alexa — an AMAZON PARROT.
49TrashDIS???✨ See Why
The clue "Trash" suggests a slang term, and "DIS" fits as it is a colloquialism meaning to insult, criticize, or put someone down—essentially "trashing" them verbally. This interpretation aligns with informal usage, making "DIS" the apt solution here.
50Relative of a votive candleTEALIGHT????????✨ See Why
A votive candle is a small, round candle typically used in holders, often for decorative or ceremonial purposes. A TEALIGHT is a similar small candle, typically encased in metal or plastic, also used for decorative purposes, making it a "relative" of a votive candle.
54Attire for an acrobatUNITARD???????✨ See Why
The answer is UNITARD because an acrobat often wears a tight, one-piece garment that allows for flexibility and ease of movement during performances. A unitard is specifically designed for such physical activity, providing full-body coverage while enabling the acrobat to execute flips, jumps, and other feats comfortably.
58Era in which daylight saving was introduced as a way to conserve energy, in briefWWI???✨ See Why
WWI is the solution because daylight saving time (DST) was first introduced during World War I as a measure to conserve fuel for energy by maximizing daylight hours. "In brief" signals an abbreviation, and WWI is the common short form for World War I.
59Lion in ancient RomeLEO???✨ See Why
The answer "LEO" connects to the lion as it refers to both the astrological sign Leo, symbolized by a lion, and the Latin word "Leo," meaning lion in ancient Rome. This dual connection makes it the perfect fit for the clue.
60"omg, u r too much"LOL???✨ See Why
The clue "omg, u r too much" mimics the tone and language of text messaging or informal online communication. "LOL," meaning "laughing out loud," is a common shorthand response to something overly amusing or exaggerated. The playful, casual tone fits perfectly with "LOL" as the solution.
61COOPERSHAWK???????????✨ See Why
A classic sales call — “Buy today!” — paired with a hawk, a bird. But also, COOPER refers to someone who makes barrels, making this pun even tighter: COOPER’S HAWK.
64Love, at WimbledonNIL???✨ See Why
In tennis, "love" represents a score of zero. Wimbledon follows this scoring terminology. "NIL" is a synonym for zero, commonly used in sports. Therefore, "Love, at Wimbledon" translates to "NIL," referring to a score of zero in the match.
65SoftenedEASED?????✨ See Why
The clue "Softened" directly aligns with the definition of EASED. "Eased" means to make something less severe, intense, or harsh—essentially softening it. This straightforward clue works as a simple synonym replacement, with no additional wordplay or tricky indicators involved.
66 "___: The Origins of Our Discontents," Isabel Wilkerson best sellerCASTE?????✨ See Why
The answer is CASTE because Isabel Wilkerson's best-selling book is titled Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents. The book explores systemic inequality and societal hierarchies, using the term "caste" to analyze rigid social stratification in the U.S., comparing it with caste systems in other parts of the world.
67Like one who might prefer platonic relationships, informallyARO???✨ See Why
The answer "ARO" is short for "aromantic," describing someone who experiences little to no romantic attraction and may prefer platonic relationships. The clue's use of "informally" signals an abbreviation or casual term, making "ARO" the fitting, informal descriptor for this identity.
68Fathers' last words?AMENS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Fathers' last words?" uses a pun. "Fathers" can refer to priests or clergy, who often end prayers with "Amen." The plural "AMENS" aligns with the idea of multiple "last words" spoken by such figures. This clever wordplay ties the spiritual context to the answer.
69"Challenge accepted!"ITSON?????✨ See Why
The clue "Challenge accepted!" is a phrase often said when someone agrees to take on a challenge. The answer, IT'S ON, is a colloquial way of expressing readiness or agreement to engage, fitting perfectly as a spoken phrase matching the tone of the clue in quotes.
Down
1Japanese rice cakeMOCHI?????✨ See Why
The solution "MOCHI" fits the clue "Japanese rice cake" because mochi is a traditional Japanese treat made by pounding sticky rice into a chewy, dense consistency. It is a well-known rice-based dessert and matches the straightforward description in the clue.
2ApproximatelyABOUT?????✨ See Why
The word "ABOUT" is synonymous with "approximately," as both indicate an estimation or lack of exactness. For example, "about 10 miles" means roughly or approximately 10 miles, making "ABOUT" the perfect fit for this straightforward clue.
3Home for the Sun DevilsTEMPE?????✨ See Why
The Sun Devils represent Arizona State University, whose main campus is located in Tempe, Arizona. The clue refers to their "home," which is the city of Tempe. This use of a proper noun and reference to a team directly identifies TEMPE as the correct answer.
4___ City (nickname for New Haven, Conn.)ELM???✨ See Why
The answer is ELM because New Haven, Connecticut, is famously nicknamed "Elm City" due to the abundance of elm trees that were planted there in the 18th and 19th centuries as part of an urban beautification project. The nickname reflects this legacy.
5Many a Joseph Cornell artworkDIORAMA???????✨ See Why
Joseph Cornell was an artist known for creating intricate shadow boxes, which are essentially DIORAMAs. These miniature worlds often included found objects and collaged elements, encapsulating small, artistic scenes or narratives. The clue "Many a Joseph Cornell artwork" refers to his distinct style, making DIORAMA the perfect answer.
6ShineLUSTER??????✨ See Why
The answer "LUSTER" aligns with the clue "Shine" because "luster" refers to a soft glow, gloss, or radiance, which matches the concept of shining or emitting light. It is a synonym often used to describe brightness or brilliance, making it the perfect fit for this straightforward clue.
7TavernINN???✨ See Why
The answer "INN" works because both "tavern" and "inn" refer to establishments that provide lodging and often serve food and drink. While "tavern" emphasizes the drinking/eating aspect, inns historically included these services as part of their accommodations. The shared features make them synonymous in certain contexts.
8A matchbook, for a wobbly table, saySHIM????✨ See Why
The answer is SHIM because a shim is a small, flat object used to stabilize or level something uneven, like a wobbly table. A matchbook can serve as an improvised shim by being wedged under one of the table legs to stop the wobble.
9"___ down!" ("Shut up!")PIPE????✨ See Why
The clue "___ down!" ("Shut up!") uses a common idiom "pipe down," meaning to be quiet or stop talking. The phrase originates from naval terminology where a boatswain's pipe signaled silence. "Pipe" fits the blank, making "Pipe down!" synonymous with "Shut up!" in casual speech.
10Explore a caveSPELUNK???????✨ See Why
The answer is SPELUNK because "spelunking" is the act of exploring caves. The clue directly defines the action, and "spelunk" is the verb form meaning to explore caves as a hobby or activity. It matches perfectly with the straightforward definition provided in the clue.
11Like the Roman Empire around 48 B.C.CAESAREAN?????????✨ See Why
The Roman Empire around 48 B.C. was under the rule of Julius Caesar, making it "Caesarean" in nature. The term "Caesarean" refers to Caesar, symbolizing his dominance during that era. This clue cleverly uses historical context to lead to the answer.
12One might be cooked "casino"-styleCLAM????✨ See Why
The answer is CLAM because "clams casino" is a popular dish where clams are topped with breadcrumbs, bacon, and other seasonings before being baked. The clue refers to this specific cooking style, making CLAM the logical answer.
13Will be, in SpanishSERA????✨ See Why
The clue "Will be, in Spanish" specifies a translation into Spanish. "Will be" corresponds to the future tense of "ser" (to be) in Spanish. The third-person singular future tense of "ser" is "será," without the accent here to match crossword conventions. Thus, the answer is SERA.
18Musical building blockNOTE????✨ See Why
The answer "NOTE" fits the clue "Musical building block" because in music, a note represents a single pitch or tone, which is a fundamental element in creating melodies, harmonies, and compositions. Each note serves as a basic unit in musical structure, making it the "building block" of music.
23Company name enderINC???✨ See Why
"INC" is short for "incorporated," a common designation used at the end of company names to denote a legally registered corporation. As the clue specifies "Company name ender," INC is a concise and fitting solution as it often appears at the end of many business names.
25South African currencyRAND????✨ See Why
The South African currency is the Rand, abbreviated as ZAR. It has been the official currency in South Africa since 1961. The clue explicitly refers to the currency of South Africa, directly leading to RAND as the correct solution. No wordplay or alternate interpretation is involved here.
26Doesn't get hit, saySITSPAT???????✨ See Why
The clue "Doesn't get hit, say" involves wordplay, specifically a metaphorical phrase. "SITS PAT" means staying firm or not making a move, which aligns with avoiding "getting hit" in a figurative sense, such as in a game or negotiation, by not changing position.
29Hard animal to herdCAT???✨ See Why
The clue "Hard animal to herd" uses wordplay, indicating a playful or figurative interpretation. Cats are notoriously independent and not easily controlled or organized, making them "hard to herd." The phrase "herding cats" humorously describes managing chaos or uncooperative individuals. Hence, the answer is CAT.
30Bad ending?ASS???✨ See Why
The clue "Bad ending?" uses wordplay, indicated by the question mark. Here, "Bad" can humorously refer to one’s backside (synonym: ASS). Thus, the "ending" of "Bad" alludes to this pun, making ASS the fitting answer. It’s a clever play on words!
31Site of a Nobel Prize award ceremony every December 10OSLO????✨ See Why
The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo, Norway, during an annual ceremony on December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's death. While most Nobel Prizes are awarded in Stockholm, the Peace Prize uniquely takes place in Oslo as specified by Nobel's will.
32Lasting lash effectWELT????✨ See Why
The clue "Lasting lash effect" hints at a mark or injury caused by a lash (like from a whip). A "welt" is a raised bump or ridge on the skin caused by a lash or impact, often lasting for some time, making it the fitting answer.
33"East of Eden" girlABRA????✨ See Why
The answer is ABRA because she is a key female character in John Steinbeck's novel East of Eden. Abra Bacon is involved in a romantic subplot and plays a significant role in the lives of the Trask family, making her the "girl" referenced in the clue.
34Setting for "The King and I"SIAM????✨ See Why
The answer is SIAM because "The King and I," a famous Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, is set in 19th-century Siam, the historical name for modern-day Thailand. The story revolves around the relationship between Anna Leonowens and the King of Siam.
35Mammal that can roll up into a ballARMADILLO?????????✨ See Why
The answer is ARMADILLO because this mammal is distinct for its ability to curl its body into a tight ball as a defense mechanism. Its armored shell provides protection from predators, a trait that directly matches the clue description.
39One might help you moveVAN???✨ See Why
The clue "One might help you move" hints at something used to transport belongings. A "van" is a common vehicle used for moving furniture and items during a relocation, making it the fitting answer for this clue.
40Medium capacity?ESP???✨ See Why
The clue "Medium capacity?" includes a question mark, signaling wordplay. "Medium" refers to a psychic or someone with extrasensory perception (ESP), often considered their "capacity" or ability. ESP (extrasensory perception) aligns with the pun in "Medium capacity."
41___ Field (M.L.B. venue since 2009)CITI????✨ See Why
The answer is CITI because Citi Field is the home stadium of the New York Mets, a Major League Baseball team. The stadium, named after Citi (Citigroup), has been the Mets' venue since it opened in 2009, replacing Shea Stadium. The clue directly references this iconic venue.
43Skin condition that causes facial flushingROSACEA???????✨ See Why
The answer is ROSACEA because it is a common skin condition specifically known for causing facial redness, flushing, and blushing. These symptoms often appear prominently on the cheeks, nose, and forehead, perfectly aligning with the clue “Skin condition that causes facial flushing.”
44Major that might require International Relations and U.S. Government classes, informallyPOLISCI???????✨ See Why
The clue refers to a college major, and "International Relations" and "U.S. Government" are core subjects studied in Political Science. "POLISCI" is an informal abbreviation for Political Science, fitting both the subject matter and the clue's tone.
46PimpleZIT???✨ See Why
The clue "Pimple" refers to a common skin blemish, particularly associated with acne. One informal, slang term for a pimple is "ZIT," which fits the clue directly in meaning and length. Thus, "ZIT" is the correct, succinct answer.
47Ties another knot, so to speakREWEDS??????✨ See Why
The clue "Ties another knot, so to speak" uses a pun. "Tying the knot" is a phrase for getting married. Adding "another" suggests doing it again, i.e., remarrying. "Reweds" perfectly captures this idea, as it means marrying again. The phrase "so to speak" confirms the wordplay.
48Comical growlRAWR????✨ See Why
The clue "Comical growl" includes a humorous tone, indicated by "comical." RAWR mimics the sound of an animal growl but is often used playfully or in jest, especially in internet culture or cartoons. Its exaggerated nature makes it comical, fitting the clue perfectly.
51Word with cut or shotGLASS?????✨ See Why
The answer "GLASS" fits because it pairs naturally with both "cut" and "shot" in common phrases. A "glass cut" refers to shaping or cutting glass, while a "glass shot" refers to a drink served in a glass or a camera shot involving glass (e.g., a window).
52Observe closely, as ordersHEWTO?????✨ See Why
The phrase "HEW TO" means to adhere to or follow something strictly, such as rules or orders. In the context of the clue "Observe closely, as orders," it suggests obeying or following the orders precisely—aligning with the definition of "hew to."
53SymbolTOKEN?????✨ See Why
The word "TOKEN" can signify a "symbol" in the sense of a representation or emblem of something else, such as a token of appreciation symbolizing gratitude. Both words share the idea of standing for something beyond their immediate form, making "TOKEN" the apt solution.
54Forearm boneULNA????✨ See Why
The ulna is one of the two long bones in the forearm, alongside the radius. Located on the side opposite the thumb, it forms part of the elbow joint with the humerus and the wrist joint. "Forearm bone" accurately describes it anatomically, making ULNA the correct answer.
55Genre for "Double Indemnity"NOIR????✨ See Why
The solution "NOIR" fits because "Double Indemnity" is a classic example of film noir, a cinematic genre characterized by crime, moral ambiguity, dark visuals, and moody atmosphere. The French word "noir," meaning "black," reflects these dark themes central to the genre's style.
56Last word in the first line of "Home on the Range"ROAM????✨ See Why
The first line of the classic American folk song "Home on the Range" is, "Oh, give me a home where the buffalo roam." The last word in this line is "roam," referring to the buffalo wandering freely. Thus, the answer "ROAM" fits perfectly.
57One tablespoon, maybeDOSE????✨ See Why
The clue "One tablespoon, maybe" suggests a quantity, but 'maybe' hints at wordplay. A "dose" is often measured in small, precise amounts like a tablespoon (e.g., for medicine). The pun here equates a tablespoon to a potential "dose," making DOSE the fitting answer.
62WritePEN???✨ See Why
The answer "PEN" fits the clue "Write" because a pen is a common tool used for writing. This clue is straightforward, with no pun or alternative wordplay. It directly connects the act of writing to the instrument typically used for it.
63Porkpie, e.g.HAT???✨ See Why
The answer is HAT because a porkpie is a specific style of hat. It has a flat crown and a circular, narrow brim, often associated with fashion or jazz culture. The clue indicates a type or example (e.g.), and "HAT" is the general category it belongs to.
Solving yesterday's NYT Crossword? Reveal letters one by one, uncover the entire puzzle, or click clues to reveal their answers. No matter how you solve it, this tool offers just the right help to unblock or finish the NYT Crossword!
Really fun Thursday with a playful theme from Ginny Too’s third puzzle! We’re translating bird calls literally today, not just mimicking the sounds but decoding clever wordplay hidden in dialogue. “Nice of you to show up” becomes a COMMON SNIPE, and Alexa parroting “Goodnight Alexa” yields an AMAZON PARROT. These theme clues feel like short comedic sketches, each building to a punchline. Obscure entries like OBELI, MELISMA, and ABRA added some spice, but overall it leaned easier for a Thursday. Still, a solid theme, smooth grid, and enough trickiness to satisfy that midweek itch!
Notable Clues from Yesterday
Some clues just stand out—whether they fit the theme in a cool way, were extra tricky, or just made us laugh. Here are a few from yesterday’s puzzle that caught our attention. Did they stump you too?
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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
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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.
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Stars for Completion
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Modes
Alternate between black (pen) and gray (pencil) letters.
Letter Colors
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Timer and Special Elements
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Rebus Elements: Enter letters, numbers, or symbols in a single square as part of the puzzle’s challenge or hint.
NYT Crossword Help
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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 while filled with hints for The Mini puzzle assists you with both the NYT crosswords and the NYT Mini puzzle solving.
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