Solve the NYT Mini Crossword: Clues and Answers for May 31, 2025

Introduction to NYT Mini Crossword

Can you complete the NYT Mini Crossword in less than a minute? This article presents today's clues to challenge your skills! The NYT Mini is a beloved puzzle, known for its quick format. It serves as a condensed version of the classic crossword found in The New York Times, which is published in over 300 newspapers and online. The NYT Crossword is a prominent American-style puzzle that appears daily, with difficulty levels that rise throughout the week, starting from easier puzzles on Mondays to the most challenging ones on Saturdays. The Sunday Crossword, which is larger, is featured in the New York Times Magazine and holds a significant place in American culture.

Understanding the NYT Mini Crossword

The NYT Mini Crossword is an enjoyable daily puzzle that is smaller than the traditional version. Accessible to anyone with a New York Times account, this puzzle, created by Joel Fagliano, typically features three to five clues in each direction on a 5x5 grid, although larger 7x7 grids may appear on Saturdays. Compared to the standard daily crossword, the Mini is designed to be simpler.

Unlike its larger counterpart, the Mini Crossword can be played for free on the New York Times website or through the NYT Games app. However, accessing older puzzles requires a subscription to NYT Games.

WARNING: Spoilers ahead! Proceed with caution if you wish to see today's NYT Mini answers.

Strategies for Solving the Mini Crossword

• Begin with straightforward clues to establish a base of letters and words. Focus on hints that have short answers or are based on common knowledge.


• Pay attention to intersecting letters as you fill in answers for key clues to help solve other words.


• If you're uncertain about an answer, don't hesitate to make an educated guess; you can always revise it later.


• Try rearranging letters to form words, concentrating on common crossword answers and familiar word patterns.


• Common crossword answers often relate to history, geography, and pop culture.


• Before checking hints, attempt to solve the puzzle independently.

Today's NYT Mini Crossword Clues and Answers

Struggling with tricky words? Don't worry! Here are the solutions for today's NYT Crossword:

ACROSS Answers

• 1) This one and that one – BOTH
  5) Ballet-inspired fitness class – BARRE


• 6) Mississippi _ (rich chocolate dessert) – MUDPIE
  7) Sea creature with the scientific name Monodon monoceros – NARWHAL
  8) Like some soccer shots – ONGOAL
  9) Strict in tone – STERN


• 10) Place for a 'For Sale' sign – YARD

DOWN Answers

• 1) $#!&, e.g. – BADWORD


• 2) Harry Potter, Annie or Bruce Wayne – ORPHAN


• 3) _ and error – TRIAL


• 4) Dog trainer's 'Walk next to me!' – HEEL


• 5) Hot dog alternative – BURGER


• 6) Relative of a stingray – MANTA


• 7) All up in one's business – NOSY

The Evolution of the Mini Crossword

The NYT Mini Crossword was launched on August 21, 2014, to provide a quicker, simpler, and more accessible daily challenge for puzzle enthusiasts. It was designed to attract a broader audience, especially those who found the full-size crossword daunting.

Available for free on the NYT website and mobile app, the Mini Crossword has benefited from careful editing over the years. Various freelance creators have contributed to its development, with Joel Fagliano serving as the editor since its inception.