The New York Times Mini Crossword provides a fun and swift challenge for fans of the puzzle. Being smaller, at 5x5 grid, this is a mini version of the crosswords available in the NYT publication, ideal for a short mental exercise. It is simpler than its giant cousin but can offer a great puzzle-solving experience nonetheless. In case anyone is stuck on today's puzzle, here are the answers to the NYT Mini Crossword November 19, together with some hints and clues that might be useful to deal with the grid.
Today's NYT Mini Crossword has an intriguing combination of relatively easy and slightly tougher clues. For both the seasoned crossword puzzle enthusiast and the newcomer, every clue has been written to challenge and amuse. Here's a closer look at the answers and clues for November 19.
1A: Children's author Dav Pilkey, who wrote Captain Underpants and Dog Man
Answer: DAV
A very literal clue for followers of children's literature. This popular author is the author of two icons.
4A: Someone who prefers to be alone
Answer: LONER
A simple and straightforward clue, with a term that is often used for someone who likes their own company.
6A: Seething with anger
Answer: ANGRY
A pretty basic clue here, with the solution being an emotional state that should be easily guessed in context.
7A: Bulge, like a bodybuilder's muscles
Answer: BULGE
This one may be a little tricky but think about how muscles can bulge in a prominent fashion.
8A: Casual shirt
Answer: TEE
An easy clue, referring to an everyday garment that's casual and comfortable.
1D: ____ holes (treats that are really balls, not "holes")
Answer: DONUT
A fun and familiar clue, perfect for those who enjoy a tasty treat. It's a smart play on the word "hole."
2D: Geometry class measurement
Answer: ANGLE
This one is straightforward for anyone who's taken geometry. Angles are basic units of measurement in math.
3D: On the ___ of tears
Answer: VERGE
This is a common phrase used to describe being close to crying. Easy to fill in if familiar with the expression.
4D: Lecture's counterpart, in college science courses
Answer: LAB
A quick and simple answer for anyone who's attended a science class. A lab is often paired with a lecture.
5D: Kind of marbled bread
Answer: RYE
Rye bread is often set with a marbled texture. A pretty easy clue for bread enthusiasts.
The NYT Mini Crossword of today, November 19, isn't particularly hard, but it does demand a mix of common knowledge and word association. The clues are well-balanced, with some being pop culture, others relating to everyday items or common phrases.
When doing the NYT Mini Crossword today, start with what appears to be the easiest clues to solve first. This provides that momentum and gets in the more challenging answers. Pay attention to short, direct clues like "TEE" or "RYE," which are often very easy. For the trickier clues like "BULGE" or "LONER," look for contextual clues and your language knowledge.
The NYT Mini Crossword hints can also help guide the way. If stuck, it’s a good idea to try and think about multiple meanings for words. Sometimes, the clues might be a play on words or a common phrase, like "ON THE VERGE" or "BULGE." Keep the puzzle-solving process light and fun—it’s meant to be a quick challenge!
The great thing about the NYT Mini Crossword today is its quick yet satisfying design. Coming only in 5x5 grids, the answers can be pieced together faster than in a traditional NYT Crossword, but it is full of puzzle-solving experience, filling one clue at a time as the puzzle comes to life and, soon enough, the entire grid is finished.
Begin with the easy clues. Start there, with words you can easily fill in, simple words or names you know well.
Consider idiomatic expressions. A lot of your NYC Mini Crossword clues will have a basis in idiomatic language. For example, "ON THE VERGE" or "PROTRUDE" - these are clear phrases that can really be readily filled in when you think of them as idiomatic expressions.
Use word association. A clue like "BULGE" can be solved by thinking of what protrudes or sticks out, be it muscles or other items.
Don't get too hasty! The NYT Mini Crossword is all about having fun. Take a moment to think before rushing into an answer.
Take a look at your completed words. Sometimes, solving one clue opens up other answers. Pay attention to how words connect in the puzzle.
If today’s puzzle feels like a breeze, that's great! If stuck on a clue, don’t worry—solving puzzles is a process, and every crossword is an opportunity to practice. Use the answers provided above to complete today’s NYT Mini Crossword and keep honing your crossword-solving skills.