Skipped over in speech, as letters of a word - NYT The Midi Clue

The clue "Credit alternative" refers to another form of payment. While "credit" involves using a credit card or line of credit, its alternative is "CASH," representing physical money or direct payment without borrowing. The straightforward nature of the clue points directly to CASH as the solution.

The answer "DOSIDO" refers to a common square dance move often performed at hoedowns. In a dosido, two dancers circle around each other back-to-back without touching, a hallmark move of square dancing. It fits perfectly as the traditional dance style associated with hoedowns.

"ALTO" is the solution because it identifies a common type or range of both saxophones and clarinets. Saxophones and clarinets come in various pitches, and "alto" specifically refers to a mid-range type, such as the alto saxophone or alto clarinet, fitting the clue perfectly.

The clue "The plan is on!" is in quotes, indicating a spoken phrase. "It's a go" is a common verbal expression announcing that a plan or project has been approved or set in motion, perfectly matching the meaning of the clue. Hence, the answer is ITSAGO.

The phrase "___ on truckin'!" refers to continuing or persisting despite challenges. "Keep" fits because the expression "Keep on truckin'!" is a common motivational phrase encouraging perseverance. The blank sets up this familiar idiom, and "keep" seamlessly completes it.

In Fantasy Football, a "transaction" often involves exchanging players between teams, which is referred to as a TRADE. The clue suggests this common action in the game. The wordplay also ties to "fantasy" as it involves strategic player swapping rather than financial transactions.

A "levee" is a man-made structure, typically an embankment or wall, built along a river or coastline to prevent flooding by controlling or redirecting water flow. The clue "Flood preventer" directly points to this function, making LEVEE the correct answer.

The clue "Got away" refers to successfully evading or breaking free from a situation or confinement. "ESCAPED" directly matches this definition, as it means to flee or break free, aligning perfectly with the phrasing of the clue in the past tense.

The answer "REAM" refers to a standard unit of measurement for paper, typically consisting of 500 sheets. As such, if someone is purchasing a significant quantity of paper, they would often buy it in a "ream," making it a fitting solution for "Paper purchase."

The answer "ADO" fits the clue "Commotion" because "ado" refers to fuss, excitement, or a disturbance often caused by unnecessary drama or activity. It's a direct synonym, commonly used in phrases like "much ado about nothing," emphasizing unnecessary commotion or uproar.

The answer "ENDS" refers to "burnt ends," a popular barbecue dish made from the crispy, flavorful edges of smoked brisket. These "ends" are a well-known delicacy in barbecue cuisine, especially in regions like Kansas City, making it the fitting solution for this clue.

The answer is BYPASS because it refers to an alternate route designed to "bypass" city centers, reducing traffic congestion. It avoids crowded urban areas, providing a faster, smoother road option around the city. The term directly describes the function of such a route.

MTV is the solution because it’s a television network known for its music-related programming and pop culture shows. "Room Raiders" and "Cribs" are iconic MTV reality series that aired during the 2000s, showcasing young lifestyles and celebrity homes, both fitting MTV's brand and audience.

The clue "Prompt, as one's memory" suggests a subtle action to recall something. "JOG" fits as it means to nudge or stimulate someone's memory, like giving a prompt or reminder to help them remember something. It's a succinct fit for the clue’s phrasing.

DOT is the solution likely due to a clue that suggests something small, circular, or marking (e.g., "Tiny spot" or "Point"). It could also involve wordplay, such as relating "dot" to internet domains ("dot-com") or Morse code (a dot represents a short signal). Context determines the fit.

The answer "ARENA" fits because indoor arenas are large venues commonly used for hosting concerts, sports events, and other large-scale gatherings. The clue directly references an "indoor concert," which aligns perfectly with the purpose of an arena.

The solution "AROMA" fits because bakeries are known for their enticing scents, like freshly baked bread or pastries. The word "enticement" hints at something that draws people in, and "AROMA" captures the appealing and inviting smell found in bakeries. It's a sensory allure.

The answer "RENEW" fits because to continue a subscription, one typically extends or refreshes it by renewing. The word directly describes the action needed to maintain an active subscription, aligning perfectly with the clue's intent.

The answer "GOBAG" refers to a bag packed with essentials in advance, commonly used for emergencies or quick departures. In the context of expectant parents, it's the prepared tote with items needed for the hospital when labor begins, aligning with the idea of being ready to "go" at any moment.

The answer "KETO" refers to the ketogenic diet, a popular low-carb, high-fat dietary plan. It drastically reduces carbohydrate intake and replaces it with fat, putting the body into a metabolic state called ketosis, where it burns fat for energy. This matches the description in the clue perfectly.

The clue "Humble" home points to a modest or unassuming dwelling. "Humble" suggests simplicity, and the word "home" is synonymous with terms like abode, dwelling, or residence. ABODE fits both the humility and home aspects perfectly, making it the correct answer.