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October 13, 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Friday, October 13, 2023

Difficulty Level: Moderate Wednesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 68 (28 Across, 40 Down)

Average Word Length: 5.6 letters

October 13, 2023 NYT Clues Solutions

NYT Friday Crossword Across Clues - October 13, 2023 Solutions

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Ones getting lit at a party, maybe 7
2A 8. Some subway art 7
3A 15. Hit 2011 film based on a 2009 novel by Kathryn Stockett 7
4A 16. Interminably 7
5A 17. Tame, metaphorically 7
6A 18. Rock subgenre named for its aggressive vocals 7
7A 19. Pitching coach? 12
8A 21. All in, in a way 8
9A 24. Pour on the affection 4
10A 25. Waste ___ 3
11A 26. Where more hot dogs are sold than at all Major League Baseball stadiums combined 6
12A 30. "To the stars," in Latin 7
13A 34. Focus of some modern ethical debates 7
14A 38. Figure with exactly 10 digits? 7
15A 39. Flag bearer 7
16A 40. Loose 7
17A 41. House painted with polka dots, you might say 7
18A 42. Absolutely hate 6
19A 44. "Dub," to a sports fan 3
20A 45. Kind of phase 4
21A 48. Adds, as an app 8
22A 52. Music festival lineup 12
23A 56. Point of no return 7
24A 57. Seeing red 7
25A 61. Foe of Ferocious Flea in Hanna-Barbera toons 7
26A 62. Raw fish dish 7
27A 63. "Wish me luck!" 7
28A 64. Make things even 7

Let's Solve the Across Clues Together!

Here are helpful hints to solve each clue. Remember, crossword puzzles are like word games - have fun with them!

Clue 1 Across: "1. Ones getting lit at a party, maybe"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that lighter consisting of a thin piece of wood or cardboard tipped with combustible chemical; ignites with friction
  • Words that mean the same thing: gibe, equate, equalize
  • The opposite would be: disagree
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MATCHES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "8. Some subway art"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that art consisting of a design made of small pieces of colored stone or glass
  • Words that mean the same thing: mosaic, Mosaic, photomosaic
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MOSAICS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "15. Hit 2011 film based on a 2009 novel by Kathryn Stockett"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about literature.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: THEHELP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "16. Interminably"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ONANDON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "17. Tame, metaphorically"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that any of numerous climbing plants of the genus vanilla having fleshy leaves and clusters of large waxy highly fragrant white or green or topaz flowers
  • Words that mean the same thing: vanilla extract
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: VANILLA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "18. Rock subgenre named for its aggressive vocals"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SCREAMO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "19. Pitching coach?"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: VOICETEACHER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "21. All in, in a way"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that haunt like a ghost; pursue
  • Words that mean the same thing: haunted, preoccupied, possessed
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OBSESSED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "24. Pour on the affection"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that be foolish or senile due to old age
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DOTE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "25. Waste ___"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a container; usually has a lid
  • Words that mean the same thing: bank identification number, ABA transit number, binful
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "26. Where more hot dogs are sold than at all Major League Baseball stadiums combined"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: COSTCO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "30. "To the stars," in Latin"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ADASTRA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "34. Focus of some modern ethical debates"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CHATGPT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "38. Figure with exactly 10 digits?"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that half woman and half fish; lives in the sea
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MERMAID

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "39. Flag bearer"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (sports) the chief official (as in boxing or american football) who is expected to ensure fair play
  • Words that mean the same thing: reader, reviewer, peer review
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: REFEREE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "40. Loose"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ATLARGE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "41. House painted with polka dots, you might say"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that something very ugly and offensive
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EYESORE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "42. Absolutely hate"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that find repugnant
  • Words that mean the same thing: abominate, execrate, abhor
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LOATHE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "44. "Dub," to a sports fan"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about sports.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a victory (as in a race or other competition)
  • Words that mean the same thing: advance, bring home the bacon, profits
  • The opposite would be: fail, lose
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: WIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "45. Kind of phase"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an examination conducted by spoken communication
  • Words that mean the same thing: oral exam, oral examination, viva voce
  • The opposite would be: aboral, anal
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ORAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "48. Adds, as an app"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that set up for use
  • Words that mean the same thing: instal, put in, establish
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: INSTALLS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "52. Music festival lineup"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 letters. It's a hard clue about music.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PORTAPOTTIES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "56. Point of no return"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the boundary in ancient times between italy and gaul; caesar's crossing it with his army in 49 bc was an act of war
  • Words that mean the same thing: point of no return
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RUBICON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "57. Seeing red"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that put into a rage; make violently angry
  • Words that mean the same thing: infuriated, maddened, enrage
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ENRAGED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "61. Foe of Ferocious Flea in Hanna-Barbera toons"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about history.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ATOMANT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "62. Raw fish dish"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about food & drink.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that very thinly sliced raw fish
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SASHIMI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "63. "Wish me luck!""

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HEREIGO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "64. Make things even"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TIEITUP

    Great job if you got it right!

Down Clues Decoded - Friday NYT Crossword October 13, 2023

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. "Becoming a Popstar" airer 3
2D 2. "Eureka!" 3
3D 3. Hamilton 3
4D 4. Herb in many potato dishes 5
5D 5. Choppers 5
6D 6. Bret Easton ___, "American Psycho" author 5
7D 7. Scatterbrain 10
8D 8. 50.1%, technically 4
9D 9. Way back when 4
10D 10. Emmy-nominated Gilbert 4
11D 11. Some speech starters 9
12D 12. "Napoleon Dynamite" setting 5
13D 13. Ajax competitor 5
14D 14. [What a bore!] 5
15D 20. Where the Tokugawa shogunate was established 3
16D 21. Who said "Issues are never simple. One thing I'm proud of is that very rarely will you hear me simplify the issues" 5
17D 22. European hotel amenity 5
18D 23. Junkyard warning 5
19D 27. Paramount requirement? 10
20D 28. Gender-neutral pronoun 4
21D 29. Commercial follower of Mc- or Nes- 4
22D 31. Two-bit 9
23D 32. Polynesian staple 4
24D 33. World capital where it's illegal to fly the Soviet hammer and sickle 4
25D 35. Junkyard warning 5
26D 36. Threat 5
27D 37. Main characters in "Booksmart" and "Easy A" 5
28D 43. Best seller 3
29D 45. Highest-rated daytime talk show in American history 5
30D 46. Waze calculation 5
31D 47. Setting for a green wedding, perhaps 5
32D 49. Where early tablets were first unveiled? 5
33D 50. To the point 5
34D 51. Beverage brand founded in Osaka 5
35D 53. Kind of palm or berry 4
36D 54. Early sports video game 4
37D 55. One step ahead of, say 4
38D 58. "Skedaddle!" 3
39D 59. Runner with vestigial wings 3
40D 60. Some smokeless tobacco 3

Now Let's Solve the Down Clues!

Down clues go from top to bottom. Use the letters from your across answers to help!

Clue 1 Down: "1. "Becoming a Popstar" airer"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MTV

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. "Eureka!""

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AHA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Hamilton"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the cardinal number that is the sum of nine and one; the base of the decimal system
  • Words that mean the same thing: tenner, X, x
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Herb in many potato dishes"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about food & drink.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that perennial having hollow cylindrical leaves used for seasoning
  • Words that mean the same thing: Allium schoenoprasum, schnittlaugh, chives
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CHIVE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Choppers"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HELOS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Bret Easton ___, "American Psycho" author"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (norse mythology) goddess of old age who defeated thor in a wrestling match
  • Words that mean the same thing: Elli
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ELLIS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Scatterbrain"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SPACECADET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. 50.1%, technically"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (superlative of `many' used with count nouns and often preceded by `the') quantifier meaning the greatest in number
  • Words that mean the same thing: virtually, well-nigh, about
  • The opposite would be: fewest, least
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MOST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Way back when"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that on one occasion
  • Words that mean the same thing: formerly, in one case, one time
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ONCE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Emmy-nominated Gilbert"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SARA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Some speech starters"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that short account of an incident (especially a biographical one)
  • Words that mean the same thing: anecdote
  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ANECDOTES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. "Napoleon Dynamite" setting"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a state in the rocky mountains
  • Words that mean the same thing: Gem State, ID
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IDAHO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. Ajax competitor"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (astronomy) a relatively small extraterrestrial body consisting of a frozen mass that travels around the sun in a highly elliptical orbit
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: COMET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "14. [What a bore!]"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the rattling noise produced when snoring
  • Words that mean the same thing: saw wood, saw logs, snoring
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SNORE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "20. Where the Tokugawa shogunate was established"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a member of a west african people living in the tropical forest region of southern nigeria
  • Words that mean the same thing: Yedo, Yeddo, capital of Japan
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EDO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "21. Who said "Issues are never simple. One thing I'm proud of is that very rarely will you hear me simplify the issues""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OBAMA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "22. European hotel amenity"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a basin for washing genitals and anal area
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BIDET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "23. Junkyard warning"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about history.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a vicious angry growl
  • Words that mean the same thing: entangle, maze, snap
  • The opposite would be: unsnarl, disentangle
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SNARL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "27. Paramount requirement?"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SCREENTEST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "28. Gender-neutral pronoun"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: THEY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "29. Commercial follower of Mc- or Nes-"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a small restaurant where drinks and snacks are sold
  • Words that mean the same thing: coffee bar, coffee shop, coffeehouse
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAFE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "31. Two-bit"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SMALLTIME

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "32. Polynesian staple"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that edible starchy tuberous root of taro plants
  • Words that mean the same thing: cocoyam, dalo, edda
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TARO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "33. World capital where it's illegal to fly the Soviet hammer and sickle"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about geography.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a port city on the gulf of riga that is the capital and largest city of latvia; formerly a member of the hanseatic league
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of Latvia
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RIGA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "35. Junkyard warning"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about history.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the sound of growling (as made by animals)
  • Words that mean the same thing: rumble, grumble, growling
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GROWL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "36. Threat"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a source of danger; a possibility of incurring loss or misfortune
  • Words that mean the same thing: jeopardize, scupper, riskiness
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PERIL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "37. Main characters in "Booksmart" and "Easy A""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about literature.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the time of life between the ages of 12 and 20
  • Words that mean the same thing: teen, stripling, adolescent
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEENS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "43. Best seller"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (baseball) a successful stroke in an athletic contest (especially in baseball)
  • Words that mean the same thing: collide with, attain, score
  • The opposite would be: miss
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HIT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "45. Highest-rated daytime talk show in American history"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about history.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OPRAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "46. Waze calculation"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an established line of travel or access
  • Words that mean the same thing: path, itinerary, road
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ROUTE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "47. Setting for a green wedding, perhaps"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that tree (as opposed to shrub)
  • Words that mean the same thing: spindle, bower, pergola
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ARBOR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "49. Where early tablets were first unveiled?"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a mountain peak in the southern sinai peninsula (7,500 feet high); it is believed to be the peak on which moses received the ten commandments
  • Words that mean the same thing: Mount Sinai, Sinai Desert, Sinai Peninsula
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SINAI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "50. To the point"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that brief and to the point; effectively cut short
  • Words that mean the same thing: curt, crisp, laconic
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TERSE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "51. Beverage brand founded in Osaka"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about history.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASAHI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "53. Kind of palm or berry"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACAI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "54. Early sports video game"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about sports.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an unpleasant smell
  • Words that mean the same thing: niff
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PONG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "55. One step ahead of, say"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ONTO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "58. "Skedaddle!""

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a person who is deemed to be despicable or contemptible
  • Words that mean the same thing: puke, crumb, scum bag
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GIT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "59. Runner with vestigial wings"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that any of various systems of units for measuring electricity and magnetism
  • Words that mean the same thing: electromagnetic unit, Emu novaehollandiae, Dromaius novaehollandiae
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EMU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 40 Down: "60. Some smokeless tobacco"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a depression in an otherwise level surface
  • Words that mean the same thing: douse, inclination, plunge
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DIP

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 43 63.2%
Short Answer 8 11.8%
History 5 7.4%
Celebrity/Entertainment 4 5.9%
Literature 2 2.9%
Sports 2 2.9%
Food & Drink 2 2.9%
Music 1 1.5%
Geography 1 1.5%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 28
Down Clues 40
Total Clues 68
Average Answer Length 5.6 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 12 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

  • Start with short words first - they're usually easier!
  • Look for clues with blanks to fill in - these are like fill-in-the-blank questions at school
  • When letters cross, they must be the same in both words - this helps you check if you're right!
  • Today is Friday, and these puzzles are usually moderate level
  • Most clues today are about general knowledge
  • The average word today has about 5 letters
  • Remember: It's okay to take breaks and come back later with fresh eyes!
  • Ask someone for help if you need it - crosswords are more fun with friends!

Disclaimer: Crossword clues are property of The New York Times. This educational content is designed to help puzzle enthusiasts improve their solving skills.

Last Updated: August 30, 2025 at 07:17 AM

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Friday, December 26, 2025

NYT Down Clues Answers December 26, 2025 - All 35 Vertical Solutions & Expert Hints

Today's Down Crossword NYT December 26, 2025 - Every Vertical Solution Explained

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 35 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: Todays NYT Crossword Across Clues_21 | July 03 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | Xwordhint Crossword Answers December 02 |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 26, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Friday, December 26, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date December 26, 2025
Day of Week Friday
Total Down Clues 35 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Medium

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 35 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. How a supervillain might brag
2 Down 2. Flip
3 Down 3. Waiting for support, maybe
4 Down 4. Like untended plots
5 Down 5. Funeral ___
6 Down 6. Broad band?
7 Down 7. Royal Australian Air Force insignia
8 Down 8. Competition that combines speed with balance
9 Down 9. Professor Dumbledore
10 Down 10. Contest
11 Down 11. Bevy : quail :: parliament : ___
12 Down 12. The world's end, in Norse mythology
13 Down 13. Mr. or Ms. Right
14 Down 14. Baby sitter?
15 Down 21. Half of a classic rum cocktail's name
16 Down 24. Component of a nautilus shell
17 Down 25. Eric who wrote and illustrated "Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me"
18 Down 27. Stick by a fireplace
19 Down 28. Mantra
20 Down 29. Nearby things
21 Down 30. Like the pope's guards
22 Down 31. Area on which to eat or play cards
23 Down 32. "You can absolutely count on me"
24 Down 33. Figure in sci-fi's "Attack of the 50 Foot Woman," e.g.
25 Down 34. Great illustrations
26 Down 38. Connected
27 Down 39. Sister of Moses
28 Down 40. Worth considering
29 Down 41. Made up
30 Down 43. Nation dubbed the "cradle of mankind"
31 Down 44. "Understood?"
32 Down 46. Big break
33 Down 47. Stack (up)
34 Down 49. Casting need
35 Down 51. Short diner order

Detailed Hints and Answers for All Down Clues

Need help? Here are comprehensive hints and answers for each Down clue. Also check these helpful guides:

Complete Down Solutions:

1 Down: "1. How a supervillain might brag"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: S____Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: in a smug manner
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SMUGLY

2 Down: "2. Flip"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: L____T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LOSEIT

3 Down: "3. Waiting for support, maybe"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: O____D
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ONHOLD

4 Down: "4. Like untended plots"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'W' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: W___Y
  • Similar words: scrawny, underweight
  • Opposite of: weedless
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: abounding with or resembling weeds
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer WEEDY

5 Down: "5. Funeral ___"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: P__E
  • Similar words: funeral pyre
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: wood heaped for burning a dead body as a funeral rite
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PYRE

6 Down: "6. Broad band?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'I'
  • Similar words: obeah
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OBI

7 Down: "7. Royal Australian Air Force insignia"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: K______O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KANGAROO

8 Down: "8. Competition that combines speed with balance"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 15 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: E_____________E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EGGANDSPOONRACE

9 Down: "9. Professor Dumbledore"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A___S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALBUS

10 Down: "10. Contest"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: B__T
  • Similar words: round, bust
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BOUT

11 Down: "11. Bevy : quail :: parliament : ___"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'L'
  • Similar words: bird of Minerva, bird of night
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OWL

12 Down: "12. The world's end, in Norse mythology"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: R______K
  • Similar words: Gotterdammerung
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RAGNAROK

13 Down: "13. Mr. or Ms. Right"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: T______E
  • Similar words: sweetheart, sweetie
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a person loved by another person
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TRUELOVE

14 Down: "14. Baby sitter?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: S______R
  • Similar words: baby carriage, go-cart
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: someone who walks at a leisurely pace
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STROLLER

15 Down: "21. Half of a classic rum cocktail's name"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'I'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MAI

16 Down: "24. Component of a nautilus shell"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: N___E
  • Similar words: mother-of-pearl
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the iridescent internal layer of a mollusk shell
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NACRE

17 Down: "25. Eric who wrote and illustrated "Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: C___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CARLE

18 Down: "27. Stick by a fireplace"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: M___H
  • Similar words: equalize, gibe
  • Opposite of: disagree
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MATCH

19 Down: "28. Mantra"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: C___T
  • Similar words: cantillate, intone
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHANT

20 Down: "29. Nearby things"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: T___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer THESE

21 Down: "30. Like the pope's guards"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S___S
  • Similar words: Swiss people
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the natives or inhabitants of Switzerland
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SWISS

22 Down: "31. Area on which to eat or play cards"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: T______P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the top horizontal work surface of a table
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TABLETOP

23 Down: "32. "You can absolutely count on me""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: I______E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IPROMISE

24 Down: "33. Figure in sci-fi's "Attack of the 50 Foot Woman," e.g."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: G______S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a female giant
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GIANTESS

25 Down: "34. Great illustrations"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E______S
  • Similar words: epitome, paradigm
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a standard or typical example
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EPITOMES

26 Down: "38. Connected"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'T'
  • Similar words: contact, converge
  • Opposite of: diverge
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: come together
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MET

27 Down: "39. Sister of Moses"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'M'
  • Word pattern: M____M
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MIRIAM

28 Down: "40. Worth considering"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: O____E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OFNOTE

29 Down: "41. Made up"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: A____D
  • Similar words: abye, atone
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: make amends for
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ATONED

30 Down: "43. Nation dubbed the "cradle of mankind""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: K___A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KENYA

31 Down: "44. "Understood?""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: G___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GOTME

32 Down: "46. Big break"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: R__T
  • Similar words: breach, severance
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a gap between cloud masses
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RIFT

33 Down: "47. Stack (up)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: P__E
  • Similar words: stack, stilt
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a collection of objects laid on top of each other
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PILE

34 Down: "49. Casting need"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: break down, snuff it
  • Opposite of: be born
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DIE

35 Down: "51. Short diner order"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'T'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BLT

Expert Strategies for Solving Down Clues

Master the vertical clues with these professional tips:

Why Start with Down Clues?

  • Down clues often reveal key letters for intersecting words
  • Vertical patterns can unlock difficult sections
  • Many prefixes and suffixes run vertically
  • Down answers often help solve Across clues

Down Clue Patterns to Recognize

  1. Fill-in-the-blank clues: These are usually the easiest Down entries
  2. Prefixes and suffixes: Common word parts often run vertically
  3. Abbreviations: Look for clues with "Abbr." or shortened forms
  4. Plural indicators: Words ending in 'S' are common in Down
  5. Pop culture references: Names and titles often appear vertically

Time-Saving Down Techniques

Technique How It Helps
Scan all Down first Get a mental map of the vertical flow
Fill short Down words 3-4 letter words are often prefixes or connectors
Use crossing letters Across letters help confirm Down answers
Look for themes Related Down answers often share a theme

Frequently Asked Questions About Down Clues

What are Down clues in crossword puzzles?

Down clues are the vertical entries in a crossword puzzle that read from top to bottom. They're numbered and correspond to specific columns in the grid.

Should I solve Down or Across clues first?

Many solvers alternate between Down and Across clues to build momentum. Down clues can help unlock difficult sections by providing key intersecting letters. The best approach is to solve the clues you find easiest first, regardless of direction.

How many Down clues are in today's puzzle?

Today's NYT crossword has 35 Down clues.

Are Down clues easier than Across clues?

Neither direction is inherently easier. The difficulty depends on the specific clues and your knowledge. However, Down clues often contain helpful prefixes, suffixes, and word parts that can be easier to guess.

How do Down clues interact with Across clues?

Down and Across clues intersect at various points in the grid. Solving one can provide letters that help solve the other, making the puzzle easier as you progress.

About This Page: We provide comprehensive Down clues solutions and hints for the NYT Crossword to help you improve your solving skills. This site is not affiliated with The New York Times.

Last Updated: December 26, 2025 at 05:16 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, December 26 2025 down clues

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