Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Feb. 21

Introduction to The New York Times Mini Crossword

The New York Times Mini Crossword is a delightful puzzle that has captured the hearts of many word game enthusiasts. Designed to be quick and fun, it offers a daily dose of mental exercise that players can enjoy on the go. Whether you’re a seasoned puzzler or new to crosswords, the Mini Crossword is an excellent way to sharpen your vocabulary and problem-solving skills. This guide is here to help you navigate today’s puzzle, with hints and answers to some of the trickier clues. If you’re struggling or just want to check your progress, you’ve come to the right place.

Tips and Tricks for Solving the Mini Crossword

Solving the Mini Crossword can be a breeze if you know the right strategies. Start by tackling the clues that seem the easiest, as they can give you the letters you need to fill in the blanks for tougher clues. For example, if you’re a fan of TV shows like "Severance" or "Saturday Night Live," you might recognize some of the answers related to these programs. Another useful tip is to look for common word patterns, such as prefixes, suffixes, and everyday phrases. Don’t hesitate to take your time and think creatively—sometimes the answer is right in front of you, but it takes a moment to see it. And remember, the Mini Crossword is meant to be enjoyable, so don’t stress if you get stuck. After all, that’s what hints are for!

Breaking Down Today’s Clues and Answers

Let’s dive into some of the clues from today’s Mini Crossword and explore how they work. Starting with the "across" clues, we have:

• 1A: Elevator alternative
  Answer: STEPS
  This one is all about thinking of synonyms. If you’re not taking the elevator, what else do you use to go up or down? The answer is straightforward once you consider the basics.

• 6A: Evil corporation on Apple TV+’s "Severance"
  Answer: LUMON
  If you’ve watched the show, this one is a no-brainer. "Severance" fans will recognize Lumon as the mysterious and sinister company at the center of the story.

• 7A: Ring-shaped coral reef
  Answer: ATOLL
  Geography buffs will appreciate this clue. An atoll is a familiar term for a ring-shaped coral reef surrounding a lagoon.

• 8A: Aura of confidence
  Answer: MOJO
  This is a fun one! "Mojo" is a slang term that refers to someone’s charm or confidence. It’s a great word to keep in your crossword arsenal.

• 9A: ___ Lanka
  Answer: SRI
  Here’s a clue that tests your knowledge of geography and history. Sri Lanka is an island country in South Asia, and "Sri" is the honorable title often used in its name.

Now, let’s look at the "down" clues:

• 1D: Severely criticizes
  Answer: SLAMS
  This is another synonym-based clue. If you’re criticizing someone harshly, you’re "slamming" them.

• 2D: One-on-one academic coach
  Answer: TUTOR
  If you’re helping someone with their studies in a one-on-one setting, you’re their tutor.

• 3D: A head of our time?
  Answer: EMOJI
  This clue is a clever play on words. An "emoji" is a small digital image used to express an emotion, and it can also be interpreted as "a head of our time" if you think creatively.

• 4D: Preppy shirt
  Answer: POLO
  Fashion enthusiasts will recognize this one. A polo shirt is a classic preppy wardrobe staple.

• 5D: Show with a recently aired 50th anniversary special
  Answer: SNL
  Fans of sketch comedy will know this one instantly. "SNL" stands for "Saturday Night Live," the legendary NBC show that recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

How to Play More Mini Crosswords

If you’re hooked on the Mini Crossword, you’ll be excited to know that there are plenty of puzzles to explore. The New York Times Games section offers a variety of games, including Wordle, Strands, Connections, and Connections: Sports Edition. While the current day’s Mini Crossword is free for everyone to play, accessing older puzzles requires a subscription to the Times Games section. Subscribing gives you access to an archive of past puzzles, so you can solve to your heart’s content. Even if you’re not ready to commit to a subscription, the daily Mini Crossword is always available for free, making it a great way to enjoy some mental stimulation without any cost.

Exploring the NYT Puzzle Collection

The New York Times isn’t just about crosswords—it offers a wide range of puzzles to suit every interest. For fans of word games, Wordle is a must-try. This daily word-guessing game has taken the world by storm, and its simplicity makes it accessible to everyone. If you’re into patterns and connections, you’ll love Strands and Connections, both of which challenge your brain in unique ways. And for sports enthusiasts, there’s even a sports-themed version of Connections. With so many options to choose from, the NYT Games section is a treasure trove of fun and intellectual challenges.

Conclusion: Why You Should Give the Mini Crossword a Try

The Mini Crossword is more than just a puzzle—it’s a daily dose of fun and mental exercise. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore crossword enthusiast, the Mini Crossword offers something for everyone. The combination of pop culture references, wordplay, and trivia makes it engaging and rewarding. Plus, it’s a great way to unwind and sharpen your mind. So why not give it a try? With the help of these hints and tips, you’ll be solving like a pro in no time. Happy puzzling!