The New York Times Mini Crossword for Thursday, February 27, 2025, presents a compact yet engaging challenge, featuring a 5x5 grid that tests solvers' vocabulary and lateral thinking skills. Below is a detailed breakdown of the clues and their corresponding answers, along with insights into each solution.
Clue: "Good one!"
Answer: HAH
Explanation: "HAH" is an exclamation used to express amusement or acknowledgment of a clever remark. It's a succinct way to convey that a joke or witty comment has been appreciated.
Clue: Messages to the office staff
Answer: MEMOS
Explanation: "MEMOS" are brief written communications, typically used within an organization to convey information, reminders, or instructions to employees. They serve as an efficient method for internal correspondence.
Clue: Exclamations accompanied by nervous gulps
Answer: UHOHS
Explanation: "UHOHS" represents the plural form of "uh-oh," an interjection used to indicate apprehension or the realization of a potential problem. It's often vocalized when one anticipates trouble or has made a mistake.
Clue: Calculator key
Answer: MINUS
Explanation: The "MINUS" key on a calculator denotes subtraction, allowing users to perform arithmetic operations that decrease value. It's fundamental in basic and complex calculations.
Clue: ___ Grand (Vegas casino)
Answer: MGM
Explanation: "MGM Grand" is a renowned hotel and casino located in Las Vegas, Nevada. Operated by MGM Resorts International, it's one of the largest gaming establishments on the Strip, offering a variety of entertainment and hospitality services.
Clue: Pronoun pair
Answer: HEHIM
Explanation: "HE/HIM" are pronouns used to refer to a male individual. In contexts emphasizing gender identity, specifying pronouns like "he/him" helps clarify and respect a person's preferred gender identification.
Clue: In the midst of
Answer: AMONG
Explanation: "AMONG" is a preposition indicating being surrounded by or included within a group. It conveys the idea of being in the company of multiple entities.
Clue: So-so
Answer: HOHUM
Explanation: "HO-HUM" describes something that is mediocre or unremarkable. It's an expression denoting boredom or indifference, often used to convey a lack of excitement.
Clue: Not saying a word
Answer: MUM
Explanation: To keep "MUM" means to remain silent or not disclose information. The phrase "keep mum" suggests maintaining secrecy or refraining from speaking about a particular subject.
Clue: Sound of a sizzling steak
Answer: SSS
Explanation: "SSS" phonetically represents the hissing sound produced when a steak sizzles on a hot surface. This onomatopoeic term captures the auditory experience of cooking meat at high temperatures.
This puzzle exemplifies the NYT Mini Crossword's ability to deliver a concise yet stimulating solving experience, blending straightforward definitions with more interpretive clues to engage solvers of varying skill levels.