The New York Times Mini Crossword for Saturday, February 22, 2025, presents an engaging challenge for puzzle enthusiasts. This compact puzzle, renowned for its concise format, offers a brilliantly simple way to exercise the mind daily.
Today’s Puzzle Overview
Today’s puzzle features a variety of clues that test a wide range of knowledge and vocabulary. Below is a breakdown of the clues and their corresponding answers:
Across Clues:
- 1-Across: Size between small (sm.) and large (lg.)
- 4-Across: Sharp parts of forks
- 6-Across: Tool used to cut wood in the shop
- 8-Across: Louise _, Pulitzer-winning author of The Night Watchman
- 9-Across: Meat substitute at Thanksgiving
- 10-Across: Songs, informally
- 11-Across: Drug also known as acid
Down Clues:
- 1-Down: Being aware of the present moment
- 2-Down: Evasive maneuvers
- 3-Down: Something desired
- 4-Down: Type of deck with four suits: wands, cups, swords, and pentacles
- 5-Down: Quarterback tackles
- 6-Down: “Oh yeah? Wanna _?”
- 7-Down: Preschooler’s repeated question
Answers:
Across:
- 1-Across: MED
- 4-Across: TINES
- 6-Across: BANDSAW
- 8-Across: ERDRICH
- 9-Across: TOFURKY
- 10-Across: TUNES
- 11-Across: LSD
Down:
- 1-Down: MINDFUL
- 2-Down: END RUNS
- 3-Down: DESIRED
- 4-Down: TAROT
- 5-Down: SACKS
- 6-Down: BET
- 7-Down: WHY
Tips for Solving the NYT Mini Crossword
Start with Fill-in-the-Blank Clues
These clues are usually among the easiest to solve and provide a good starting point.
Look for Short Answers
Clues with three-letter answers tend to be simpler and can help with intersecting words.
Consider Common Abbreviations
The Mini Crossword frequently uses abbreviations to fit within its compact grid.
Use the Process of Elimination
If you’re uncertain about an answer, think about what it cannot be, which can help narrow down possibilities.
FAQ
What is the NYT Mini Crossword?
The NYT Mini Crossword is a smaller, quicker version of the New York Times Crossword.
Where Can I Find the NYT Mini Crossword?
You can play the Mini Crossword daily on The New York Times website or through their official mobile app.
How Can I Get Better at Solving Crosswords?
Improving your crossword-solving skills requires regular practice, expanding your vocabulary, and learning common crossword conventions.
Share your experience with today’s puzzle in the comments below or on social media. Engage with fellow crossword lovers and happy puzzling!
