What is NYT Mini Crossword?
The NYT Mini Crossword is a smaller, faster alternative to the traditional NYT Crossword, designed to be solved in minutes rather than hours. Typically featuring 10 to 20 clues, the Mini allows players to enjoy a challenging yet concise puzzle experience. While previously free, the Mini has been moved behind the NYT Games App paywall since August 2025, though it remains accessible on the desktop site via certain workarounds.
The game emphasizes speed, agility, and logical thinking, making it ideal for casual players or those who want a quick brain exercise without committing to a full-length crossword.
Hints for Today’s NYT Mini Crossword
Sunday’s Mini Crossword brings a mix of pop culture references, wordplay, and general knowledge. Here are some initial clues and starting letters for the puzzle:
Across
- 1A. [Gross!] — G
- 4A. Finish off, as a tube of toothpaste — U
- 7A. Argentina dance style — T
- 8A. Dish : dirt :: ___ : tea — S
- 9A. The “E” of REM — E
Down
- 1D. 2023 Olivia Rodrigo album with the hit single “Bad Idea Right?” — G
- 2D. “Right away!” — A
- 3D. Disney role for Robin Williams or Will Smith — G
- 4D. Like a Christmas sweater, perhaps — U
- 6D. Festive centerpiece – P
Answers for Sunday NYT Mini Crossword , October 19, 2025
The solutions for today’s NYT Mini Crossword are as follows:
Across
- 1A. GAG
- 4A. USE UP
- 7A. TANGO
- 8A. GAME
- 9A. EYE
Down
- 1D. GUTS
- 2D. ASAP
- 3D. GENIUS
- 4D. UGLY
- 6D. NO
The puzzle combines simple wordplay, such as “Dish : dirt :: ___ : tea” leading to SPILL, and pop culture references, including Olivia Rodrigo’s album GUTS and Disney’s GENIE role shared by Robin Williams and Will Smith.
Difficulty Level for Today
Sunday’s Mini Crossword is moderately challenging, rated 3 out of 5, primarily due to niche pop culture references. Players familiar with music, movies, and classic wordplay found the puzzle manageable, while those less acquainted with the clues may have required hints.
FAQs
How many clues are in today’s NYT Mini Crossword?
Sunday’s Mini Crossword contains 10 clues, split across both across and down directions.
How can I access NYT Mini Crossword?
The Mini Crossword is available via the NYT Games App subscription or the desktop site using workarounds such as pressing “escape” a couple of times.