NYT Mini Crossword Hints and Solutions – April 16, 2025 Edition
Carefully examine the intersecting letters as you fill in your answers, as they may provide crucial hints for solving other words. If you're uncertain about an answer, don't hesitate to make an educated guess—it can always be adjusted later if needed.
NYT
Think you can complete the NYT Mini Crossword in under a minute? This article challenges you to test your skills with today’s clues! But first, let’s take a moment to understand why the NYT Mini is one of the most popular puzzles. The New York Times Crossword is a classic American-style puzzle, syndicated in over 300 newspapers and available online. The difficulty of the crossword increases through the week, starting with the easiest on Mondays and becoming the hardest by Saturday. The larger Sunday Crossword, featured in the New York Times Magazine, has become an iconic part of American culture.
What Is the NYT Mini Crossword?
The NYT Mini Crossword is a fun and compact version of the traditional crossword. Accessible to anyone with a New York Times account, this daily puzzle by Joel Fagliano typically features a 5×5 grid, though it can sometimes expand to a 7×7 grid, especially on Saturdays. The Mini Crossword is easier than the full-size version, making it an ideal challenge for those looking for a quicker puzzle.
Unlike the traditional NYT Crossword, the Mini version is free to play on the New York Times website or the NYT Games app. However, to access puzzle archives, a subscription to NYT Games is required.
Warning: Spoilers Ahead!
Scroll carefully if you want to see today’s answers for the NYT Mini Crossword.
Tips for Solving the Mini Crossword
To solve the Mini Crossword efficiently, start with the simple clues to establish a base of letters and words. Focus on short answers or those based on common knowledge.
Pay close attention to the intersecting letters as you fill in the answers—these will often help you solve the more difficult clues.
If you’re unsure of an answer, don’t hesitate to make a guess. You can always adjust it later.
Rearrange the letters in the grid to spot word patterns and common crossword answers, which often include history, geography, and pop culture references.
Try solving the puzzle on your own before checking the clues.
NYT Mini Crossword Clues and Answers for April 16, 2025
Still stuck on some tricky words? Here are today’s answers:
Across
1. BRR (“T-t-t-turn up the heat!”)
4. FRIED (Like fare at a fair, fairly often)
6. RANDO (A complete unknown?)
7. ISSUE (A Rolling Stone?)
8. HEX (Witch’s spell)
Down
1. BRASH (In-your-face assertive)
2. RINSE (Help with the dishes)
3. REDUX (Done again in a similar way)
4. FRI (The “F” of T.G.I.F.: Abbr.)
5. DOE (Fawn’s mother)
History of the Mini Crossword
The NYT Mini Crossword was launched on August 21, 2014, with the aim of offering a quicker, easier daily puzzle challenge to a wider audience. It was specifically designed for those who found the traditional crossword too difficult. The Mini Crossword has become a daily staple on the NYT website and mobile app, free for users to enjoy.
Joel Fagliano has been editing the Mini Crossword since its debut, contributing to the puzzle's quality and evolution over the years. Several freelance creators have also played a part in making it the beloved puzzle it is today.
