If you enjoy crossword puzzles but don’t always have the time or patience to finish a full-sized one, then The Mini from the New York Times is the perfect solution. It’s a compact, faster version of the classic crossword, meant to give you a fun brain boost in just a minute or two. Most people can complete it in under 90 seconds, but don’t let the small size fool you, it can still be surprisingly tricky.
The Mini challenges your vocabulary and general knowledge, and it often comes with clever clues that can throw even experienced solvers off. One wrong letter or a tough clue can quickly turn your fast solve into a frustrating one. But that’s also part of the fun — pushing yourself to beat your personal best time while keeping your mind sharp.
Just like we provide daily hints and answers for Wordle and Connections, we’re here to help if you get stuck on The Mini and need a little nudge — or the full set of answers.
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers (August 5)
If today’s clues have you scratching your head, here are the full answers for the Across and Down entries in the NYT Mini crossword for August 5:
Across
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With 4-Across, non-alcoholic drink with a flavor reminiscent of beer – HOP
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See 1-Across – WATER
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Houston M.L.B. player – ASTRO
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Sister’s daughter – NIECE
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“Just ___ a bite” (parent’s dinner encouragement) – TRY
Down
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Possesses a certain unnameable quality – HASIT
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Animal that’s the mascot of California State University, Monterey Bay – OTTER
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Best friend of Thomas the Tank Engine – PERCY
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Sickly in appearance – WAN
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Spheres on a sushi roll – ROE