The New York Times Mini Crossword has become a favorite for puzzle enthusiasts seeking a quick but engaging mental challenge. Launched as a condensed version of the classic crossword, the Mini features smaller grids and fewer clues, making it perfect for players with limited time. Despite its compact size, the Mini delivers the same intellectual satisfaction as its larger counterpart, often blending clever wordplay with general knowledge.
The puzzle for Saturday, June 14, 2025, continues the tradition of providing a delightful test of vocabulary and logic. With clues spanning topics from musical instruments to historic landmarks, this edition promises to engage players of all skill levels. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the puzzle, including clues, answers, and gameplay tips.
What is NYT Mini Crossword?
The NYT Mini Crossword is a smaller version of the full crossword puzzle, typically featuring a 5x5 grid, although the grid size can vary slightly. Unlike the full crossword, which may take an hour or more to solve, the Mini is designed to be completed in just a few minutes.
Each puzzle includes a mix of across and down clues, often drawing from diverse topics such as pop culture, history, science, and language. The Mini’s compact format and clever design have made it a popular daily ritual for players worldwide.
NYT Mini Crossword hints for June 14, 2025
Across clues:
1 Across: U.S. research agency once led by Dr. Fauci - Hint: Final letter is "H"
4 Across: Historic conflict that concluded on 11/11/1918 (abbr.) - Hint: Begins with "W"
7 Across: Structured undergarment, often with an underwire - Hint: Begins with "B"
8 Across: First name of Solo from Star Wars - Hint: Ends in "N"
9 Across: Confirm the truth of something - Hint: Ends in "M"
11 Across: Common request from a student before a big exam - Hint: Starts with "Q"
12 Across: Retro music machine found in vintage diners - Hint: Starts with "J"
13 Across: Casual phrase meaning “Everything’s ready!” - Hint: Ends in "K"
14 Across: Prefix linked to birds or flying - Hint: Ends in "I"
15 Across: Another way of saying “via” - Hint: Starts with "V"
16 Across: Short form of actor Nicolas Cage’s name - Hint: Starts with "N"
17 Across: Tiny glowing bits from a fire - Hint: Ends in "H"
18 Across: TV channel known for nature documentaries - Hint: Ends in "O"
Down clues:
1 Down: TV network that airs Saturday Night Live - Hint: Ends in "C"
2 Down: Another name for the Haudenosaunee alliance - Hint: Starts with "I"
3 Down: Jewish festival that lasts eight days - Hint: Begins with "H"
4 Down: Slang for wildly successful, especially in vintage lingo - Hint: Ends in "G"
5 Down: War-themed film like Full Metal Jacket or Saving Private Ryan - Hint: Ends in "E"
6 Down: Region where Baja California is located - Hint: Begins with "I"
10 Down: Line from a giant’s chant: “Fee, ___, foe, fum” - Hint: Starts with "F"
12 Down: Programming language named after a popular drink - Hint: Ends in "A"
NYT Mini Crossword answers for June 14, 2025
Across answers:
1 Across: NIH - U.S. health research agency formerly directed by Dr. Fauci (Hint: Ends with "H")
4 Across: WWI - The First World War, ended November 11, 1918 (Hint: Starts with "W")
7 Across: BRA - Common undergarment with built-in support wiring (Hint: Starts with "B")
8 Across: HAN - First name of the Star Wars smuggler Solo (Hint: Ends with "N")
9 Across: CONFIRM - To verify or validate the truth of something (Hint: Ends with "M")
11 Across: QUIZME - Phrase a student might say before reviewing material (Hint: Starts with "Q")
12 Across: JUKEBOX - Vintage music-playing machine often found in diners (Hint: Starts with "J")
13 Across: AOK - Informal way of saying everything’s fine or ready (Hint: Ends with "K")
14 Across: AVI - Prefix relating to birds or flight (Hint: Ends with "I")
15 Across: VIA - Preposition meaning “by way of” (Hint: Starts with "V")
16 Across: NIC - Fan nickname for actor Nicolas Cage (Hint: Starts with "N")
17 Across: ASH - Glowing residue or particles from a campfire (Hint: Ends with "H")
18 Across: GEO - Short for National Geographic Channel (Hint: Ends with "O")
Down answers:
1 Down: NBC - Television network famous for airing Saturday Night Live (Hint: Ends in "C")
2 Down: IROQUOIS - Alternate name for the Native American Haudenosaunee alliance - (Hint: Starts with "I")
3 Down: HANUKKAH - Eight-day Jewish festival celebrated with lights and traditions (Hint: Begins with "H")
4 Down: WHIZBANG - Vintage slang for something spectacularly successful (Hint: Ends in "G")
5 Down: WARMOVIE - A film centered around military conflict and war themes (Hint: Ends in "E")
6 Down: INMEXICO - Geographic region where Baja California is situated (Hint: Starts with "I")
10 Down: FIE - The second word in the rhyme: “Fee, ___, foe, fum” (Hint: Starts with "F")
12 Down: JAVA - Programming language named after a type of coffee (Hint: Ends in "A")
Tips for solving NYT Mini Crossword
Start with familiar clues: Begin by answering the clues you find easiest. This helps fill in parts of the grid and provides context for the remaining clues.
Leverage crossings: Use intersecting words to guide your guesses for tougher clues. The Mini’s smaller grid size makes this strategy especially effective.
Think laterally: Some clues rely on wordplay or less obvious associations. Be open to interpreting the clue from different angles.
Focus on common themes: Mini puzzles often have subtle themes that can help guide your answers. Look for patterns in the clues or answers.
Why is NYT Mini Crossword so popular?
The Mini crossword’s success lies in its accessibility and versatility. Its quick-play format makes it ideal for short breaks, while its clever clues ensure a rewarding mental challenge. The puzzle’s broad appeal spans casual players and seasoned crossword enthusiasts alike.
Additionally, the Mini promotes cognitive benefits, such as improved vocabulary, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. Its engaging design encourages players to return daily, building a streak and fostering a sense of accomplishment.
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