Stuck on a clue? We’ve got the answers you seek.
The Mini is a compact version of The New York Times’ famed daily crossword. While the crossword is a longer challenge that demands both knowledge and persistence, The Mini offers a different experience. With just a few clues to solve, it doubles as a speed test for many players. When a tough clue interrupts your game, it can be frustrating! If you’re stymied by The Mini — similarly to Wordle or Connections — we have the solutions here.
See also: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable
See also: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game
Here are the clues and answers to NYT’s The Mini for Thursday, May 21, 2026:
Across
1. Not such a wild place to see an elephant
– Answer: Zoo.
2. Mark who wrote “Man was made at the end of the week’s work, when God was tired”
– Answer: Twain.
3. Symbol on the U.S. quarter
– Answer: Eagle.
4. Parts of a dental exam
– Answer: X rays.
5. What Wile E. Coyote is always exploding himself with
– Answer: TNT.
Down
1. Big name in restaurant ratings
– Answer: Zagat.
2. Like your hands after eating potato chips, perhaps
– Answer: Oily.
3. Lowest numbers in sudoku
– Answer: Ones.
4. Reach out with your fingers?
– Answer: Text.
5. Give an alert
– Answer: Warn.
If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.
Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Mini Crossword.
Topics: Gaming, Mini Crossword