Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 20 January 2024, Saturday. Find all answers and solutions here.
We've also tries to explain why the answer is the correct solution for each clue.
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Clues and answers
Clues followed by answers and an explanation underneath.
4-Down quality : UMAMI
The answer to "4-Down quality" is "UMAMI" because umami is known as the fifth taste, alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. It is a savory taste often described as meaty or brothy.
Article : ITEM
The word "item" is commonly used to refer to an individual article or object. It can be used in phrases like "news item" or "grocery item," making it a suitable answer for the clue "Article."
Article : ITEM
The answer to "Article" is "ITEM" because an article refers to a specific thing or object, and an item is a synonym for a thing or object.
Auto-graph? : CAR SELFIE
The answer "CAR SELFIE" is the right solution because it combines the words "car" and "selfie" to create a play on the term "autograph." In this context, "auto" refers to the automobile, and "graph" refers to a written signature. So, "Auto-graph?" is a clever way of hinting at taking a self-portrait or a selfie inside a car.
Ayesha Rascoe’s network : NPR
The answer is "NPR" because Ayesha Rascoe is a journalist who works for NPR, which is a well-known public radio network.
Bad look : SNEER Down 1 Soft call
The answer to "Bad look" is "SNEER" because a sneer is a facial expression that conveys contempt or scorn, which can be considered a negative or "bad" look.
Barbie owner? : AUSSIE
The answer "AUSSIE" is the right solution because "Barbie" is a slang term for a barbecue, and "AUSSIE" is a commonly used abbreviation for an Australian. Australians are known for their love of barbecues, hence the clue "Barbie owner?" leads to the answer "AUSSIE".
Big name in salt : MORTON
The answer is "MORTON" because Morton is a well-known brand that produces table salt.
Botanical opening : STOMA
The answer "STOMA" is the right solution for the clue "Botanical opening" because a stoma is a small opening found on the surface of a plant, typically on the underside of leaves. It allows for gas exchange, such as the intake of carbon dioxide and the release of oxygen.
Bros, e.g. : SIBS
The answer "SIBS" is the right solution because "Bros" is a colloquial term for brothers, and "e.g." is an abbreviation for "for example." Therefore, "Bros, e.g." is a clue asking for a word that means brothers, and "SIBS" fits that description.
Cable abbr. : SHO
The answer to "Cable abbr." is "SHO" because it is a common abbreviation for the cable network Showtime.
Cause of quakes : FEAR
Cliffside town west of Málaga : RONDA
The answer to "Cliffside town west of Málaga" is "RONDA" because Ronda is a real town located west of Málaga in Spain. It is known for its breathtaking cliffs and beautiful scenery.
Comment before “He was dead the whole time,” hopefully : SPOILER ALERT
The answer "SPOILER ALERT" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to warn others that a plot twist or surprise ending will be revealed. In this case, the comment "He was dead the whole time" is a major spoiler, and the phrase "SPOILER ALERT" is used to give people a chance to avoid the spoiler if they haven't seen or read the work in question.
Constellation critter : URSA
The answer to "Constellation critter" is "URSA" because Ursa is a Latin word meaning "bear," and there are two constellations named Ursa Major (the Great Bear) and Ursa Minor (the Little Bear) in the night sky.
Cooks up : BREWS
The answer to "Cooks up" is "BREWS" because when you brew something, you are cooking it, typically referring to making a beverage like coffee or tea.
Cuts for Canadian-style bacon : LOINS
The cuts of meat commonly used to make Canadian-style bacon are taken from the LOINS of the pig.
Dazzled : SHONE
The word "shone" is the right answer because it means to emit a bright light or to dazzle. It fits perfectly with the clue "Dazzled" as it describes the action of shining brightly.
Donor type, briefly : O-NEG
The answer "O-NEG" stands for O-negative, which is a type of blood donor. O-negative blood is often referred to as the universal donor because it can be given to people of any blood type in emergencies when matching blood types is not possible. Therefore, "O-NEG" is the right solution for the clue "Donor type, briefly."
Fashion house co-founded by Pierre Bergé : YSL
The answer to "Fashion house co-founded by Pierre Bergé" is "YSL" because YSL stands for Yves Saint Laurent, a renowned fashion house that was indeed co-founded by Pierre Bergé.
Filmmaker Jackson : PETER
The answer to "Filmmaker Jackson" is "PETER" because Peter Jackson is a well-known filmmaker, famous for directing movies like "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.
Finest form : A-GAME
The answer "A-GAME" is the right solution because it refers to someone performing at their highest level or giving their best effort, which can be considered the finest form.
Flippers? : SPATULAS
The word "flippers" suggests something that can be used to flip or turn objects. SPATULAS are kitchen utensils commonly used for flipping or turning food items, making them a fitting answer to the clue.
German conjunction : UND
The answer "UND" is the right solution for the clue "German conjunction" because "UND" is the German word for "and".
Going around in circles, say : LOST
The answer "LOST" is the right solution because when someone is going around in circles, they are typically disoriented and unable to find their way. This aligns with the word "LOST" which means being unable to find one's way or direction.
Got down to business : SET UP SHOP
The phrase "Got down to business" implies starting or establishing a business. "SET UP SHOP" is a commonly used expression that means to establish a place of business, making it a fitting answer for the clue.
Grounded birds : EMUS
The answer to "Grounded birds" is "EMUS" because emus are large, flightless birds that are known to stay on the ground rather than flying.
Hebrew for “day” : YOM
The Hebrew word for "day" is "YOM."
Inflatable pilot in “Airplane!” : OTTO
The answer is "OTTO" because in the movie "Airplane!", there is an inflatable pilot named Otto.
Informal get-together : SESH
The answer to "Informal get-together" is "SESH" because "sesh" is a slang term that is short for "session." It is commonly used to refer to a casual gathering or meeting among friends or acquaintances.
Knob-handled tools : AWLS
The answer to "Knob-handled tools" is "AWLS" because an awl is a type of tool that typically has a knob or handle at one end.
Langston Hughes Library designer : LIN
Leaves on the side : SLAW
The answer "SLAW" is the right solution because it is a common dish made from shredded or chopped cabbage, which can be considered as leaves. It is often served as a side dish, hence the clue "Leaves on the side."
Like freshly moisturized skin : DEWY
The answer "DEWY" is the right solution because when skin is freshly moisturized, it often appears moist, soft, and glowing, just like the dew on leaves in the morning.
Mane squeezes? : PONYTAILS
The clue "Mane squeezes?" is a playful way of referring to hair being gathered or squeezed together. A "mane" typically refers to the hair on the head of a horse. "Ponytails" are a hairstyle where the hair is gathered and secured at the back of the head, resembling a horse's tail. So, "PONYTAILS" is the right answer that fits the clue.
Morally bankrupt : EVIL
The answer "EVIL" fits the clue "Morally bankrupt" because it refers to a person or action that is morally corrupt or lacking in ethical principles.
Narrow peninsula : SPIT
The answer "SPIT" is the right solution because a narrow peninsula is often referred to as a "spit" in crossword clues.
News stand? : OP-ED
The answer to "News stand?" is "OPED" because an op-ed, short for "opposite the editorial page," is a section in a newspaper where opinion pieces are published. It is a play on words, as "news stand" can refer to a physical stand where newspapers are sold, but in this case, it refers to the editorial section of a newspaper.
News stand? : OP-ED
The answer "OP-ED" is the right solution because a "news stand" typically refers to a place where newspapers and magazines are sold. The term "OP-ED" is short for "opposite the editorial page," which is a section in a newspaper where opinion articles are published. Therefore, "OP-ED" is a clever play on words, suggesting that it is located opposite the news stand, making it the correct answer.
Part of a halftime snack for many a soccer player : ORANGE SLICE
The answer "ORANGE SLICE" is the right solution because it is a common halftime snack for soccer players. It is a refreshing and hydrating choice that provides a quick source of energy.
Part of a heart-to-heart exchange : VALENTINE
The answer "VALENTINE" is the right solution because a heart-to-heart exchange often refers to an intimate and sincere conversation, and "Valentine" is associated with love and heartfelt emotions.
Part of PEI : EDWARD
The answer "EDWARD" is the right solution to the clue "Part of PEI" because it refers to Prince Edward Island, commonly abbreviated as PEI. Therefore, "EDWARD" is a part of the word "PEI".
Passport producer : HONDA
Paws-itive homebody? : INDOOR CAT
The answer "INDOOR CAT" is the right solution because it combines the word "indoor" with "cat" to create a play on words. "Paws-itive" is a pun on "positive," suggesting that the answer should have something to do with cats and their paws. Since indoor cats typically stay inside the house, this answer fits the clue perfectly.
Performances that might earn major props? : USO TOURS
The answer "USO TOURS" is the right solution because USO (United Service Organizations) tours are performances organized by the USO for the entertainment of military personnel. These performances often feature famous celebrities and are known to earn major appreciation and applause from the audience.
Pool units : GENES
The answer to "Pool units" is "GENES" because in genetics, a gene is a unit of heredity that is passed down from parents to offspring, similar to how a pool is a collection or unit of resources.
Rihanna’s “As __ as You and Me” : REAL
The answer "REAL" fits the clue because it completes the phrase "As __ as You and Me" and describes something genuine or authentic.
Salmorejo base : TOMATO
The answer to "Salmorejo base" is "TOMATO" because salmorejo is a traditional Spanish cold soup that is primarily made with tomatoes.
Salt component : ION
Salt is composed of charged particles called ions. Therefore, "ION" is the correct answer to "Salt component".
Salt component : ION
The answer "ION" is the right solution for the clue "Salt component" because ions are electrically charged particles that form when a salt dissolves in water. They are the fundamental building blocks of salts.
Serving a purpose : UTILE
The answer "UTILE" is the right solution because it means "serving a useful purpose" or "being practical." It fits the clue perfectly, indicating that something is fulfilling a function or serving a beneficial role.
Ska instruments : TROMBONES
The answer "TROMBONES" is the right solution for the clue "Ska instruments" because trombones are commonly used in ska music to create its distinct sound.
Some peaceful protests : LIE-INS
The answer "LIE-INS" is the right solution because during peaceful protests, some participants choose to express their dissent by staying in bed or lying down instead of going to work or participating in regular activities. This form of protest is known as a "lie-in."
Sound like a fan : WHIR
The answer "WHIR" is the right solution because it sounds like the noise a fan makes when it is operating.
Squad : TEAM
The answer to "Squad" is "TEAM" because a team is a group of people working together towards a common goal, which is the essence of a squad.
Stage : PUT ON
The answer "PUT ON" is the right solution for the clue "Stage" because "putting on" a play or performance is a common phrase used to describe the act of presenting or performing on a stage.
Stage : PUT ON
"Stage" can be used to refer to a particular point or period in a process or development, which aligns with the definition of "phase" as a distinct period or stage in a series of events.
Tavern adjective : OLDE
The answer to "Tavern adjective" is "OLDE" because it is a common way to give a sense of old-fashioned or historical atmosphere to a tavern.
Tears it up on the slopes : SHREDS
The term "shreds" is often used to describe someone who is skiing or snowboarding aggressively and skillfully on the slopes. They are tearing it up by making quick, sharp turns and showing off their expertise. Therefore, "shreds" is the right answer for "Tears it up on the slopes."
Time out in the park? : STROLLER NAP
The answer "STROLLER NAP" is the right solution because when parents take their child out in a stroller to the park, the child may take a nap during that time, hence the "Time out in the park."
Toner target : PORE
The answer "PORE" is the right solution because toner is often used to cleanse and tighten the pores on the skin.
Total mess : STY
The answer "STY" is the right solution for the clue "Total mess" because a sty refers to a dirty and disorderly place, often associated with a pig's living area.
Totally psyched : AMPED
The word "amped" is slang for being excited or enthusiastic, which matches the clue "totally psyched."
Trap collection : LINT
The answer "LINT" is the right solution for the crossword clue "Trap collection" because lint is often collected in traps, such as lint traps in dryers or lint filters in vacuum cleaners.
Watch part : STRAP
The answer "STRAP" is the right solution because a watch strap is a part of a watch that holds it securely on your wrist.
Watch part : STRAP
The "face" of a watch refers to the front part where the numbers and hands are displayed, making it the correct answer for the clue "Watch part."
Wheat-free soy sauce : TAMARI
The answer to "Wheat-free soy sauce" is "TAMARI" because tamari is a type of soy sauce that is traditionally made without wheat.
Women of Troy’s sch. : USC
The answer is "USC" because it is an abbreviation for the University of Southern California, which is commonly referred to as "USC". The Women of Troy is a nickname for the USC women's sports teams.
“Designing Women” co-star : POTTS
The answer is "POTTS" because Annie Potts was a co-star on the TV show "Designing Women".
“Encanto” uncle : BRUNO
The answer to "Encanto" uncle is "BRUNO" because Bruno is the name of the uncle character in the Disney movie "Encanto."
“Ish” : SORT OF
"ORSO" is the Italian word for "bear," and "ish" is a suffix that means "having the quality of." Therefore, "ORSO-ish" means "having the quality of a bear."
“Ish” : SORT OF
"Ish" is a colloquial way of saying "sort of" or "kind of." Therefore, "SORTA" is the right solution for this crossword clue.
“Ish” : SORT OF
The answer "GIVE OR TAKE" is the right solution for the clue "Ish" because it means approximately or roughly, which captures the idea of being somewhat close to a certain value or condition.
“Ish” : SORT OF
The answer "A BIT" fits the clue "Ish" because "A BIT" means "somewhat" or "to some extent," which is similar to the meaning of "ish."
“Ish” : SORT OF
The answer "KINDA SORTA" fits the clue "Ish" because it is a colloquial phrase that means "somewhat" or "approximately." It conveys the idea of something being close to a certain quality or quantity without being an exact match.
“Ish” : SORT OF
The answer to "Ish" is "SORT OF" because "ish" is a colloquial way of saying "sort of" or "kind of." It is used to indicate an approximation or a degree of uncertainty.
“Ish” : SORT OF
The answer "OR SO" fits the clue "Ish" because it means approximately or around that amount.
“Let me recover from that” : I NEED A MOMENT
The phrase "I need a moment" is commonly used to express the need for some time to recover or collect oneself after a surprising or overwhelming experience. It fits the clue "Let me recover from that" perfectly, making it the correct answer.
“Love that for you!” : OH FUN!
"OH FUN!" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to express enthusiasm and excitement for someone else's positive experience or situation. It conveys the idea of being happy and supportive towards the person.
“Might as well” hashtag : YOLO
The answer to "Might as well" hashtag is "YOLO" because YOLO stands for "You Only Live Once," which is often used to express the idea of taking risks or seizing the moment.
“You convinced me” : I’M IN
The phrase "I'm in" is commonly used to express agreement or acceptance after being convinced or persuaded. So, when someone says "You convinced me," the appropriate response would be "I'm in."