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Tuesday, September 2, 2025

May 12, 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Friday, May 12, 2023

Difficulty Level: Moderate Wednesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 70 (31 Across, 39 Down)

Average Word Length: 5.4 letters

May 12, 2023 NYT Clues Solutions

Across Clues Explained - Friday NYT Crossword May 12, 2023

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Powdered green tea 6
2A 7. "Nothing else?" 8
3A 15. Mistake fixer 6
4A 16. Like Bluetooth connections 8
5A 17. Transfer, as wine 6
6A 18. Leonard Bernstein's "Candide," e.g. 8
7A 19. Don't assume, say 3
8A 20. One way to start a point 9
9A 22. Waver wildly 4
10A 24. Appalachian spring hrs. 3
11A 25. A snap 4
12A 28. Philosopher Girard who coined "mimetic desire" 4
13A 30. Neckwear that's not constricting, one hopes 3
14A 33. "The ___ of Wu" (book by rapper RZA) 3
15A 34. Computer flow like [Insert → Picture → From File] 13
16A 37. Best of the best 13
17A 38. "The House of the Spirits" novelist 13
18A 39. Polite thing to call someone 3
19A 40. Second sight, say 3
20A 41. ___ Candy, best friend of Wonder Woman 4
21A 42. Rock band with the 2020 Album of the Year nominee "Women in Music Pt. III" 4
22A 44. Air safety org. 3
23A 45. Kind of pit 4
24A 49. Cult 1990s sitcom set at WNYX 9
25A 54. Letter after phi 3
26A 55. Portmanteau structure built from discarded cans 8
27A 57. Daytona 500 org. 6
28A 59. Third of Sophocles' Theban plays 8
29A 60. C2H6 compound 6
30A 61. They "hatch" late in life 8
31A 62. Wrote some hip-hop lyrics, say 6

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. Powdered green tea"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 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: MATCHA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "7. "Nothing else?""

Quick Info: This answer has 8 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: ISTHATIT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "15. Mistake fixer"

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 an implement used to erase something
  • 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: ERASER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "16. Like Bluetooth connections"

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 medium for communication
  • Words that mean the same thing: radio, radiocommunication, tuner
  • The opposite would be: wired
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: WIRELESS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "17. Transfer, as wine"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • Words that mean the same thing: pour out, pour
  • 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: DECANT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "18. Leonard Bernstein's "Candide," e.g."

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 a short amusing opera
  • Words that mean the same thing: light opera
  • 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: OPERETTA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "19. Don't assume, say"

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 inquire about
  • Words that mean the same thing: require, need, expect
  • The opposite would be: obviate
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "20. One way to start a point"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a expert 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: SPINSERVE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "22. Waver wildly"

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: YOYO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "24. Appalachian spring hrs."

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: EDT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "25. A snap"

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 posing no difficulty; requiring little effort
  • Words that mean the same thing: sluttish, easygoing, light
  • The opposite would be: uneasy, quickly
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EASY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "28. Philosopher Girard who coined "mimetic desire""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 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: RENE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "30. Neckwear that's not constricting, one hopes"

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 long thin fluffy scarf of feathers or fur
  • Words that mean the same thing: feather boa
  • 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: BOA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "33. "The ___ of Wu" (book by rapper RZA)"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an adherent of any branch of taoism
  • Words that mean the same thing: Taoist
  • 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: TAO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "34. Computer flow like [Insert → Picture → From File]"

Quick Info: This answer has 13 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: CASCADINGMENU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "37. Best of the best"

Quick Info: This answer has 13 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: ALLTIMEGREATS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "38. "The House of the Spirits" novelist"

Quick Info: This answer has 13 letters. It's a expert 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: ISABELALLENDE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "39. Polite thing to call someone"

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 term of address for a man
  • 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: SIR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "40. Second sight, say"

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 apparent power to perceive things that are not present to the senses
  • Words that mean the same thing: E.S.P., second sight, extrasensory perception
  • 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: ESP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "41. ___ Candy, best friend of Wonder Woman"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 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: ETTA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "42. Rock band with the 2020 Album of the Year nominee "Women in Music Pt. III""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 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: HAIM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "44. Air safety org."

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 an agency in the department of transportation that is responsible for the safety of civilian aviation
  • Words that mean the same thing: Federal Aviation Agency
  • 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: FAA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "45. Kind of pit"

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 dance the slam dance
  • Words that mean the same thing: slam, slam dance, thrash
  • 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: MOSH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "49. Cult 1990s sitcom set at WNYX"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 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: NEWSRADIO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "54. Letter after phi"

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 circulating life energy that in chinese philosophy is thought to be inherent in all things; in traditional chinese medicine the balance of negative and positive forms in the body is believed to be essential for good health
  • Words that mean the same thing: ki, khi, qi
  • 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: CHI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "55. Portmanteau structure built from discarded cans"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 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: BEERAMID

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "57. Daytona 500 org."

Quick Info: This answer has 6 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: NASCAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "59. Third of Sophocles' Theban plays"

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 (greek mythology) the daughter of king oedipus who disobeyed her father and was condemned to death
  • 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: ANTIGONE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "60. C2H6 compound"

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 a colorless odorless alkane gas used as fuel
  • Words that mean the same thing: C2H6
  • 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: ETHANE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "61. They "hatch" late in life"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 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: NESTEGGS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "62. Wrote some hip-hop lyrics, say"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that compose rhymes
  • Words that mean the same thing: rhyming, rime, rhyme
  • The opposite would be: unrhymed
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RHYMED

    Great job if you got it right!

May 12, 2023 Friday NYT - All Down Answers

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Time to focus on oneself 5
2D 2. Recess retort 5
3D 3. Like leaving the price tag on a gift 5
4D 4. Farm-fresh box letters 3
5D 5. They rule the roost 4
6D 6. Sketching tools 10
7D 7. "Can't make me!" 5
8D 8. Doesn't drink much 4
9D 9. General Sherman, in Tulare County, Calif., is the world's largest one 4
10D 10. Doktor alternative 4
11D 11. Analgesic with a soothing-sounding name 5
12D 12. Little confab 9
13D 13. "Das ___ gut!" 3
14D 14. Stacker of plastic tubs, in brief 3
15D 21. Brainstorming diagram 7
16D 23. Brand whose "B" stands for "brush" 5
17D 26. Minus 4
18D 27. "Oh, ___!" 3
19D 29. Lauder of cosmetics 5
20D 30. Don't blow it! 7
21D 31. How a lawyer might be kept 10
22D 32. Musician's mouthpiece 5
23D 34. Subsection of an orchestra 9
24D 35. "Barb and Star Go to Vista ___ Mar" (2021 film) 3
25D 36. Polite thing to call someone 5
26D 37. ___ Minor 4
27D 38. Devil follower 3
28D 43. Be worthy of 5
29D 44. Some short cuts 5
30D 46. Name associated with simple explanations 5
31D 47. Baseball's ___ Victorino, nicknamed "The Flyin' Hawaiian" 5
32D 48. Brought on 5
33D 50. Conduct 4
34D 51. It's hard to see through 4
35D 52. Word with pinky or promise 4
36D 53. Initiation ritual 4
37D 55. Preventive measure 3
38D 56. Dir. traveled on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge 3
39D 58. Not forward 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. Time to focus on oneself"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: MEDAY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Recess retort"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: ARESO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Like leaving the price tag on a gift"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (of a glutinous liquid such as paint) not completely dried and slightly sticky to the touch
  • Words that mean the same thing: brassy, garish, cheap
  • 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: TACKY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Farm-fresh box letters"

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: CSA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. They rule the roost"

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 adult female chicken
  • Words that mean the same thing: hen, biddy
  • 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: HENS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Sketching tools"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 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: ARTPENCILS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. "Can't make me!""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: IWONT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Doesn't drink much"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a small drink
  • Words that mean the same thing: sip
  • 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: SIPS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. General Sherman, in Tulare County, Calif., is the world's largest one"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a tall perennial woody plant having a main trunk and branches forming a distinct elevated crown; includes both gymnosperms and angiosperms
  • Words that mean the same thing: Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, tree diagram, shoetree
  • 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: TREE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Doktor alternative"

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 a german man; used before the name as a title equivalent to mr in english
  • 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: HERR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Analgesic with a soothing-sounding name"

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 nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (trademarks aleve and anaprox and aflaxen) that fights pain and inflammation
  • Words that mean the same thing: Anaprox, naproxen sodium, Aflaxen
  • 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: ALEVE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Little confab"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 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: TETEATETE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. "Das ___ gut!""

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: IST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "14. Stacker of plastic tubs, in brief"

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 an agency established in 2001 to safeguard united states transportation systems and insure safe air travel
  • Words that mean the same thing: Transportation Security Administration
  • 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: TSA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "21. Brainstorming diagram"

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: IDEAMAP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "23. Brand whose "B" stands for "brush""

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: ORALB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "26. Minus"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 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: SANS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "27. "Oh, ___!""

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: YOU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "29. Lauder of cosmetics"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: ESTEE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "30. Don't blow it!"

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: BIGLEAD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "31. How a lawyer might be kept"

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: ONRETAINER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "32. Musician's mouthpiece"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an active and efficient cause; capable of producing a certain effect
  • Words that mean the same thing: agentive role, federal agent, broker
  • 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: AGENT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "34. Subsection of an orchestra"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a single-reed instrument with a straight tube
  • Words that mean the same thing: clarinet
  • 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: CLARINETS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "35. "Barb and Star Go to Vista ___ Mar" (2021 film)"

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: DEL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "36. Polite thing to call someone"

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 woman of refinement
  • Words that mean the same thing: brothel keeper, lady, dame
  • 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: MADAM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "37. ___ Minor"

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 the largest continent with 60% of the earth's population; it is joined to europe on the west to form eurasia; it is the site of some of the world's earliest civilizations
  • 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: ASIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "38. Devil follower"

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: ISH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "43. Be worthy of"

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 any admirable quality or attribute
  • Words that mean the same thing: deservingness, meritoriousness, deserve
  • The opposite would be: demerit
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MERIT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "44. Some short cuts"

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 golf shot that curves to the right for a right-handed golfer
  • Words that mean the same thing: pass off, slice, slicing
  • 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: FADES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "46. Name associated with simple explanations"

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 english scholastic philosopher and assumed author of occam's razor (1285-1349)
  • Words that mean the same thing: William of Occam, Ockham, William of Ockham
  • 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: OCCAM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "47. Baseball's ___ Victorino, nicknamed "The Flyin' Hawaiian""

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: SHANE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "48. Brought on"

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 engage or hire for work
  • Words that mean the same thing: employ, lease, engage
  • The opposite would be: fire, unchartered
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HIRED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "50. Conduct"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that something that remunerates
  • Words that mean the same thing: salary, earnings, engage
  • 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: WAGE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "51. It's hard to see through"

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 air pollution by a mixture of smoke and fog
  • Words that mean the same thing: smogginess
  • 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: SMOG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "52. Word with pinky or promise"

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 a characteristic sound
  • Words that mean the same thing: knell, ringing, gang
  • The opposite would be: open chain
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RING

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "53. Initiation ritual"

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 profane or obscene expression usually of surprise or anger
  • Words that mean the same thing: expletive, cuss, curse
  • 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: OATH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "55. Preventive measure"

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 decree that prohibits something
  • Words that mean the same thing: forbiddance, forbidding, Bachelor of Arts in Nursing
  • 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: BAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "56. Dir. traveled on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge"

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 the compass point midway between northeast and east
  • Words that mean the same thing: east northeast
  • 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: ENE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "58. Not forward"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a quick throw
  • Words that mean the same thing: diffident, unsure, timid
  • The opposite would be: confident
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SHY

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 47 67.1%
Short Answer 14 20.0%
Celebrity/Entertainment 2 2.9%
Literature 2 2.9%
Music 2 2.9%
History 2 2.9%
Food & Drink 1 1.4%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 31
Down Clues 39
Total Clues 70
Average Answer Length 5.4 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 13 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: September 02, 2025 at 12:44 PM

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Monday, December 8, 2025

All NYT Down Clues December 08, 2025 - 39 Vertical Answers with Hints

NYT Down Clues Answers December 08, 2025 - All 39 Vertical Solutions & Expert Hints

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 39 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: December 10 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | February 16 2022 NYT Clues Solutions | September 02 2020 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 08, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Monday, December 08, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date December 08, 2025
Day of Week Monday
Total Down Clues 39 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Challenging

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 39 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Magic charms
2 Down 2. Not together
3 Down 3. Interior design
4 Down 4. Genesis boat
5 Down 5. The eyes may have it
6 Down 6. Scuba gear
7 Down 7. Remnants of a volcanic spew
8 Down 8. Corp. exec overseeing engineers, say
9 Down 9. Stuff on an artist's palette
10 Down 10. Eleventh-hour
11 Down 11. Potatoes, in Indian cooking
12 Down 12. From ___ to dusk
13 Down 15. Actor Sam of "Jurassic Park"
14 Down 18. Acorn droppers
15 Down 23. Salt, in Paris
16 Down 25. Money across the Atlantic
17 Down 27. Messages on which you might be cc'd
18 Down 29. Iraqis and Iranians
19 Down 31. Biblical brother of Jacob
20 Down 32. Psychedelic tab
21 Down 33. Toy on a string that's not a kite
22 Down 34. Center of a stone fruit
23 Down 36. Film special effects, for short
24 Down 38. After-hours source of $$$
25 Down 40. Lost moisture
26 Down 41. Nonspecific amount
27 Down 44. Pet that stores food in cheek pouches
28 Down 46. Author Fleming
29 Down 47. What empty stomachs do
30 Down 49. In ___ of
31 Down 51. No longer available
32 Down 53. "There ___ enough hours in the day"
33 Down 54. "That's the truth!"
34 Down 55. Mosaic pieces
35 Down 56. Covering over a wound
36 Down 57. Pause in the action
37 Down 59. "It's gonna ___ you!"
38 Down 63. Hwy.
39 Down 64. Early Chinese dynasty

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. Magic charms"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: M___S
  • Similar words: mojo
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a magic power or magic spell
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MOJOS

2 Down: "2. Not together"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: A___T
  • Similar words: obscure, aside
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: remote and separate physically or socially; ; - W.H.Hudson
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer APART

3 Down: "3. Interior design"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: D___R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DECOR

4 Down: "4. Genesis boat"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'K'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ARK

5 Down: "5. The eyes may have it"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: M_____A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: makeup that is used to darken and thicken the eye lashes
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MASCARA

6 Down: "6. Scuba gear"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: T__K
  • Similar words: storage tank, cooler
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TANK

7 Down: "7. Remnants of a volcanic spew"

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
  • Similar words: ash tree, ash
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the residue that remains when something is burned
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASHES

8 Down: "8. Corp. exec overseeing engineers, say"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'O'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CTO

9 Down: "9. Stuff on an artist's palette"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: O______T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OILPAINT

10 Down: "10. Eleventh-hour"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: L_______H
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LASTDITCH

11 Down: "11. Potatoes, in Indian cooking"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: A__O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALOO

12 Down: "12. From ___ to dusk"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: D__N
  • Similar words: cockcrow, sunup
  • Opposite of: sunset
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the first light of day
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DAWN

13 Down: "15. Actor Sam of "Jurassic Park""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: N___L
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NEILL

14 Down: "18. Acorn droppers"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: O__S
  • Similar words: oak, oak tree
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OAKS

15 Down: "23. Salt, in Paris"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEL

16 Down: "25. Money across the Atlantic"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: E__O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EURO

17 Down: "27. Messages on which you might be cc'd"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E____S
  • Similar words: e-mail, email
  • Opposite of: snail mail
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EMAILS

18 Down: "29. Iraqis and Iranians"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A____S
  • Similar words: Asiatic, Asian
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a native or inhabitant of Asia
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASIANS

19 Down: "31. Biblical brother of Jacob"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'U'
  • Word pattern: E__U
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ESAU

20 Down: "32. Psychedelic tab"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'D'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LSD

21 Down: "33. Toy on a string that's not a kite"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'Y' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: Y__O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer YOYO

22 Down: "34. Center of a stone fruit"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: C_______T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHERRYPIT

23 Down: "36. Film special effects, for short"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'I'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CGI

24 Down: "38. After-hours source of $$$"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'M'
  • Similar words: cash machine, cash dispenser
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ATM

25 Down: "40. Lost moisture"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: D______T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DRIEDOUT

26 Down: "41. Nonspecific amount"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: S__E
  • Similar words: more or less, around
  • Opposite of: no
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SOME

27 Down: "44. Pet that stores food in cheek pouches"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: H_____R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HAMSTER

28 Down: "46. Author Fleming"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'N'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IAN

29 Down: "47. What empty stomachs do"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: G___L
  • Similar words: grumble, rumble
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the sound of growling (as made by animals)
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GROWL

30 Down: "49. In ___ of"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'U'
  • Word pattern: L__U
  • Similar words: position, stead
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LIEU

31 Down: "51. No longer available"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: T___N
  • Similar words: take, have
  • Opposite of: give
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: carry out
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TAKEN

32 Down: "53. "There ___ enough hours in the day""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: A___T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ARENT

33 Down: "54. "That's the truth!""

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
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NOLIE

34 Down: "55. Mosaic pieces"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T___S
  • Similar words: roofing tile, tile
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TILES

35 Down: "56. Covering over a wound"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'B'
  • Word pattern: S__B
  • Similar words: blackleg, fink
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: someone who works (or provides workers) during a strike
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SCAB

36 Down: "57. Pause in the action"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: L__L
  • Similar words: calm down, tranquillise
  • Opposite of: agitate
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LULL

37 Down: "59. "It's gonna ___ you!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: C__T
  • Similar words: toll, be
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer COST

38 Down: "63. Hwy."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'E'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RTE

39 Down: "64. Early Chinese dynasty"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'W' and ends with 'I'
  • Similar words: Wei dynasty
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer WEI

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 39 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 08, 2025 at 05:16 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, December 08 2025 down clues

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