The November 21 NYT Mini Crossword delivers a lively set of clues built around music, idioms, action words, and classic references, creating a quick but meaningful puzzle experience for the day.
The grid moves smoothly from start to finish, with each answer locking in cleanly and offering a crisp moment of recognition that keeps the Mini’s trademark fast-paced challenge intact.
NYT Games continues its daily rhythm with tomorrow’s fresh puzzle already on the way, promising another short burst of focus, new clues, and the same satisfying sense of completion.
The NYT Mini Crossword drops fresh clues daily and builds a small but meaningful challenge for puzzle lovers everywhere. Each grid delivers a short burst of focus and brings a quick victory for anyone who enjoys sharp wordplay. The November 21 puzzle continues that tradition with a smooth blend of lively references and simple hints. The experience stays short, crisp, and satisfying.
This edition brings a mix of action words, classic idioms, musical styles, and even a nod to ancient instruments. Each clue finds a direct route to the answer, and the grid locks together cleanly. The structure forms a compact task for the day, offering mental clarity in only a few moments.
Before diving into the clues and answers, the puzzle invites a sense of daily rhythm. A new set arrives every morning, and each one carries its own flavor. This November 21 puzzle holds a friendly tone with clues that feel familiar and approachable.
1A: Pump iron
Answer: LIFT
A quick term for raising weights during strength training.
5A — Peer
Answer: EQUAL
Someone on the same level in status or standing.
7A: Like the music of Rick James and James Brown
Answer: FUNKY
A style known for bold rhythms and spirited grooves.
8A: Animal that can't change its stripes, per an old adage
Answer: TIGER
A classic reminder that natural traits stay consistent.
9A: Pointed part of a fork
Answer: TINE
A sharp prong that helps grip food.
1D: Dominant hand for Shohei Ohtani when batting, but not pitching
Answer: LEFT
His batting side uses the left hand as the lead.
2D: Resignation proclamation
Answer: IQUIT
A short phrase that ends a commitment.
3D: Mushrooms, mold, mildew, etc.
Answer: FUNGI
Living organisms that share a natural group.
4D: "Is this seat ___?"
Answer: TAKEN
A common question about an occupied spot.
6D: U-shaped instrument in ancient Greece
Answer: LYRE
A stringed instrument held in many classic myths.
Also Read – NYT Connections Hints and Answers for November 20, 2025 (Puzzle #893)
The grid for this November 21 edition flows smoothly from start to finish. The across clues lean into common expressions, while the down clues offer tight references that resolve fast. The puzzle’s charm rests in how each word clicks instantly without dragging the mind through deep twists. The entire experience brings a clean sense of completion in only a few minutes.
Each answer stands alone yet connects neatly with the next. A musical clue leads into an idiom. A simple action verb intersects with a classical object. That design keeps the Mini fresh every day and offers something new to notice with each solve.
The November 21 puzzle showcases how the Mini packs variety into a tiny grid. The solution path stays direct, and every answer carries a small spark of recognition. That blend creates the signature feel of NYT Games: simple ideas crafted with precision.
This November 21 Mini Crossword delivers a smooth finish and another quick win. The day ends with a neat grid and clear answers, and tomorrow’s fresh challenge already awaits in the NYT Games lineup.
The cycle continues with new clues, new words and another fast spark of brain-energy for the morning. Each edition keeps the habit alive and brings a rewarding moment of clarity in a small package.
Ready for the next grid? Soon, another set of clues and answers will arrive. Until then, enjoy the satisfaction of a puzzle solved.
Also Read – Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers for November 20, 2025