Feeling stuck on today’s Mini Crossword? You’re not the only one. Even though it’s just a tiny 5x5 grid, the New York Times Mini can be surprisingly tricky. Let’s go over today’s answers, and maybe clear up a few confusing spots.
Across Clues: Some Fun and Some Head-Scratchers
So here’s what’s going across the puzzle today. Some of these are clever, and a couple might make you pause for a second.
-
1A: Endangers – The answer is RISKS. Makes sense, right? If you risk something, you're kind of putting it in danger.
-
6A: “Bloomin’” item at Outback Steakhouse – That’s ONION. They’re talking about the famous Bloomin’ Onion appetizer.
-
7A: Up the ___ (plentifully) – This is WAZOO. It’s slang and kind of goofy, but used all the time.
-
8A: Lived (in) – The answer is DWELT. Not a word you hear much these days, but it fits.
-
9A: “You wanted to see me because …?” – That short little line is YES. Feels like a casual response to an awkward meeting.
Across clues tend to be a mix of pop culture and simple logic. You either know them—or you don’t.
Down Clues: Simple, But Not Always Easy
Now let’s look at the down clues. A few of these feel easy at first glance, but one or two might trip you up if you're not paying close attention.
-
1D: “___ you kidding me?” – ARE. Pretty straightforward.
-
2D: Clean, as a surface – WIPE. Think kitchen counters.
-
3D: ___ of the deal – PART. A common phrase.
-
4D: Great enthusiasm – ZEAL. Not a word you hear every day, but it means passion or energy.
-
5D: Starts to faint – SWOONS. A little dramatic, but it works.
The down side is often easier if you’ve already filled in a few letters from the across clues. Everything connects in the Mini, which is what makes it fun.
Why So Many People Love the Mini
Honestly, the NYT Mini is kind of addictive. It’s fast, fun, and still manages to test your brain a little. If you don’t have much time but still want to do something that feels smart, this is perfect. It’s become part of a lot of people’s daily routine—kind of like a mental coffee shot in the morning.
Tips If You're Just Getting Into It
Here are a few quick thoughts for anyone new or just trying to get better:
-
Don’t overthink it. Most answers are simple words.
-
Skip ones you don’t know and come back with fresh eyes.
-
Practice every day. You’ll get faster.
-
Sometimes the clues are trying to be funny or sneaky—don’t take everything literally.
