The New York Times Mini Crossword is a fun and quick way to challenge your brain. It is smaller than the regular crossword but just as enjoyable. Today’s puzzle, dated January 19th, 2025, has 10 clues—5 across and 5 down. Let’s dive into the clues and answers to see how you can solve them.
Across Clues and Answers
- With 9-Across, Dick who starred in a Coldplay music video released on his 99th birthday in December 2024
The answer is VAN. This clue refers to Dick Van Dyke, a famous actor. He starred in a Coldplay music video on his 99th birthday. The clue connects with 9-Across to complete his last name . - Turn away, as one’s gaze
The answer is AVERT. This means to look away or avoid something. It’s a simple word but fits perfectly in the puzzle . - Seattle’s Space Needle, for one
The answer is TOWER. The Space Needle is a well-known landmark in Seattle. It is a tall structure, so “tower” makes sense . - “Ah, gotcha”
The answer is ISEE. This phrase is used when someone understands something. It’s a common expression in everyday conversation . - See 1-Across
The answer is DYKE. This completes the name “Van Dyke” when combined with 1-Across. Dick Van Dyke is the actor being referred to here .
Down Clues and Answers
- Tank in a factory
The answer is VAT. A vat is a large container used in factories to hold liquids or chemicals. It’s a straightforward clue . - Steer clear of
The answer is AVOID. This means to stay away from something. It’s a common word used in many contexts . - Filled with the latest gossip
The answer is NEWSY. This word describes something full of news or gossip. It’s a fun and informal term . - Smell terrible
The answer is REEK. This means to have a very bad smell. It’s a strong word that fits the clue well . - Stereotypically simple role in a school play
The answer is TREE. In school plays, the role of a tree is often seen as simple and easy. It’s a humorous and relatable clue .
Tips for Solving the Mini Crossword
The NYT Mini Crossword is designed to be quick and fun. Here are some tips to help you solve it faster:
- Start with the easiest clues. Look for clues that you know right away. For example, “Tank in a factory” (VAT) is a simple clue to start with .
- Use the crossing letters. If you’re stuck on one clue, look at the letters from the intersecting words. For example, the “V” in VAN (1-Across) helps with VAT (1-Down) .
- Think of common words. The Mini Crossword often uses short, common words. For example, “ISEE” and “AVOID” are everyday terms .
- Don’t overthink. Sometimes the answer is simpler than you think. For example, “TOWER” for the Space Needle is a direct match .
Fun Facts About Today’s Puzzle
- The shortest answer is VAN, with only 3 letters. The longest answer is AVERT, with 5 letters .
- The unused letters in today’s puzzle are B, C, F, G, H, J, L, M, P, Q, U, X, and Z. This means none of these letters appear in any of the answers .
- Dick Van Dyke, the actor referenced in 1-Across and 9-Across, is a beloved figure in entertainment. His appearance in a Coldplay music video at 99 years old is a fun pop culture reference .
Why Play the NYT Mini Crossword?
The Mini Crossword is perfect for busy people. It takes only a few minutes to solve. It’s also free to play, unlike the regular NYT Crossword, which requires a subscription .
Playing the Mini Crossword can improve your vocabulary and problem-solving skills. It’s a great way to start your day or take a short break. Plus, it’s fun to challenge yourself and see how fast you can solve it .
Conclusion
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword for January 19th, 2025, is a mix of easy and slightly tricky clues. From Dick Van Dyke to the Space Needle, the puzzle covers a range of topics. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced solver, this puzzle is a great way to test your skills.