Today’s NYT Mini Crossword offers simple clues and familiar answers that make solving quick, smooth, and enjoyable for all types of players.
The January 28 puzzle balances speed and fun, giving a light mental workout without tricky words or confusing clues.
NYT Games continues its daily puzzle tradition, with the Mini Crossword remaining a favorite alongside Wordle and Connections.
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword arrives with another small but clever puzzle. Every day, this short crossword brings a quick challenge for puzzle lovers. The grid stays tiny, but the fun stays big. January 28, 2026, continues that daily tradition with simple clues and smart answers.
The NYT Mini Crossword feels perfect for a short break. Each clue stays easy to read. Each answer fits cleanly into the grid. The puzzle welcomes beginners and regular solvers alike. That daily rhythm keeps the Mini Crossword popular across the NYT Games section.
Today’s puzzle uses common words, clear meanings, and everyday ideas. The clues feel friendly, not tricky. The answers flow well from one word to the next. That balance makes the solving experience smooth and enjoyable.
1A Clue: Remove from a position of power
Answer: OUST
This word means to force someone out of control or leadership.
5A Clue: Not cool
Answer: UNHIP
This term describes something that no longer feels trendy or popular.
7A Clue: “Fine, see if ___!”
Answer: ICARE
The phrase shows sarcasm and a lack of concern.
8A Clue: Kind of bored
Answer: JADED
This word describes feeling tired or worn out emotionally.
9A Clue: Primatologist’s subjects
Answer: APES
Primatologists study apes and other related animals.
The across clues set a relaxed tone for today’s NYT Mini Crossword. Each clue feels direct. Each answer comes from everyday language. That simplicity keeps the puzzle light and friendly.
1D Clue: Kind of board
Answer: OUIJA
This refers to a spirit board used for communication games.
2D Clue: Prepare to use, as a pen
Answer: UNCAP
This action means removing the cap before writing.
3D Clue: Desirable place to sit on a hot day
Answer: SHADE
Shade offers comfort and relief from strong sunlight.
4D Clue: Pair on a bicycle
Answer: TIRES
A bicycle needs two tires to move properly.
6D Clue: ___ Xing (street sign)
Answer: PED
This short form appears on pedestrian crossing signs.
The down clues connect smoothly with the across answers. Each word fits naturally. The grid fills without confusion. That clean structure makes today’s puzzle satisfying from start to finish.
Also Read: NYT Connections Hints and Answers for January 27, 2026 (Puzzle #961)
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword focuses on clarity. The clues stay short. The answers stay familiar. The puzzle. That approach keeps solving stress-free.
The Mini Crossword shines because of its pace. A full solution takes only a few minutes. Yet the brain still gets a gentle workout. January 28’s puzzle delivers that balance well.
NYT Games continues to build daily habits through puzzles like this. Alongside Wordle, Connections, and Strands, the Mini Crossword holds a special place. Its small size never reduces its charm.
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword for January 28, 2026, offers a clean and enjoyable puzzle. The clues feel friendly. The answers feel natural. The grid solves smoothly without repetition or confusion.
Tomorrow awaits with another fresh Mini Crossword and a new set of clues. NYT Games keeps the daily puzzle journey alive with consistent challenges and simple fun. Each new day brings another reason to return to the grid.
Also Read: Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers for January 27, 2026