Crossword puzzles are the perfect opportunity to give the brain a quick workout. The New York Times Mini Crossword is a daily favorite, and it is a compact version of the famous full-sized puzzle. Published every day, it comes with a 5x5 grid that requires solving a handful of clues. While it might seem easier at first glance, it provides plenty of challenges in its own right.
For December 27, 2024, the puzzle may have left some solvers scratching their heads over a few clues. Here's a quick guide to completing the NYT Mini Crossword for today. If some of the clues are still elusive, help is here with the answers to each one. Ready to fill in the blanks?
The New York Times Mini Crossword is perfect for those looking for a fun, quick mental challenge. Though smaller than its bigger counterpart, the puzzle still tests word knowledge, lateral thinking, and even pop culture awareness. Today's puzzle brings together clues ranging from simple definitions to quirky wordplay.
1A. Ocean predator that can regenerate its teeth
Answer: SHARK
Sharks are known for their ability to grow in teeth over time, so they work well for this clue.
6A. "Carpe diem" language
Answer: LATIN
"Carpe diem" is Latin for "Seize the day."
7A. Rustic cabin or cozy cottage
Answer: ABODE
A cabin or small cottage is often described as an abode: a simple and homely place.
8A. Watch the seasons go by?
Answer: BINGE
To "binge" a show or series is to watch it for long stretches, sometimes watching multiple seasons at once.
9A. Material associated with Pittsburgh
Answer: STEEL
Pittsburgh is often synonymous with steel, given its historic role in steel production.
Down Clues and Answers with Detailing
1D. Thick slices of bacon
Answer: SLABS
Thick-cut bacon is commonly referred to as slabs due to its hearty slices.
2D. Creature of ___
Answer: HABIT
A creature of habit refers to someone who has been practicing habits or patterns.
3D. Make amends for one's wrongs
Answer: ATONE
To atone means to make up for previous wrongs and try to be forgiven.
4D. Corduroy pants feature
Answer: RIDGE
Corduroy fabric is recognized for its ridged texture that features its characteristic.
5D. Run out the clock in a football game, maybe
Answer: KNEEL
In football, teams often kneel to run out the clock, especially when leading late in the game.
The NYT Mini Crossword for today is quite a challenge, but a very satisfying one. With its simple grid and clues, it takes only a few minutes to complete, but each answer brings a sense of accomplishment. Whether familiar with the game or just starting, solving the puzzle can be a quick, enjoyable activity.
This crossword serves as part of the offerings under the New York Times' big banner of crosswords, representing the lighter fun without any burdensome complexity of its super-sized cousin. All who love mini crosswords have access to archives for classic games or give it another whirl at Wordle, for example, or connections to name a few among hundreds of popular puzzles. And indeed, each of the puzzles offers a different, rather unique challenge.
Besides the daily game, the NYT games library grows daily, offering solvers a selection of daily cognitive exercises. From crosswords to trivia and more, there is always something new. The Mini Crossword stands as the perfect introduction to crossword solving, providing everyone on the go with a bite-sized portion of wordplay.
If stuck on any clues, this guide will help finish the puzzle. With answers provided in this article, no need to spend time guessing. Check back every day for more quick answers and enjoy the challenge of the NYT Mini Crossword!