Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 20 February 2025, Thursday. 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.
Accounting giant __ & Young : ERNST
"Ernst" is the right answer because it completes the name of the accounting giant firm, which is "Ernst & Young."
ACLU focus : RTS
The answer "RTS" stands for "Rights" which is the focus of the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union).
ACLU focus : RTS
The answer "RTS" stands for "rights" which is the focus of the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union).
Ad-__ : LIB
The answer to "Ad-__" is "LIB" because "Ad-" is a prefix meaning "towards" or "to" and "LIB" is short for "library," which is a place people go to access books and information. So, "Ad-LIB" means to speak or perform without preparation or a script.
Ad-__ : LIB
The answer "improvise" fits the clue "Ad-__" because when you add the prefix "ad-" to the word "improvise," it forms the word "ad-lib," which means to improvise or speak or perform without preparation.
Ad-__ : LIB
"Ad-" is a prefix meaning "towards" or "near." When combined with "lib," it forms the word "ad-lib," which means to improvise or speak or perform without preparation.
Alt analogue on a Mac : OPTION KEY
The "Alt" key on a Windows keyboard is equivalent to the "Option" key on a Mac keyboard. Therefore, the answer to "Alt analogue on a Mac" is "OPTION KEY."
Apple core? : IOS
The clue "Apple core?" is a play on words, where "Apple" refers to the technology company and "core" refers to the central operating system of Apple products, which is iOS.
Architect’s detail, briefly : SPEC
"SPEC" is short for "specification," which is a detailed description of the requirements for a construction project. Architects often provide specifications as a detailed plan or detail for a project.
Architect’s detail, briefly : SPEC
"SPEC" is the right answer because it is a common abbreviation for "specification," which is a detailed description of architectural requirements and materials.
Badminton team, e.g. : DUO
The answer "DUO" is correct because a badminton team consists of two players, making it a duo.
Be in the picture? : ACT
The phrase "be in the picture" can mean to participate or play a role in a situation. In this case, "act" is the right answer as it can mean to perform a role in a play or movie, making it a fitting solution for the clue.
Be in the picture? : ACT
The clue "Be in the picture?" is a play on words that suggests being part of a movie or play, which is what actors do. Therefore, the answer "ACT" fits the clue perfectly.
Beat handily : ROUT
"ROUT" means to defeat decisively or beat handily in a competition or conflict.
Beat handily : ROUT
"Beat handily" is a clue for the word "ROUT" because "rout" means to defeat decisively or to win easily in a competition or conflict.
Bellow : ROAR
The word "bellow" is a verb that means to emit a deep, loud roar, typically in pain or anger. "Roar" is a synonym for this action, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Big name in near beer : O’DOUL
"O'DOUL" is a big name in near beer because O'Doul's is a brand of non-alcoholic beer that has been popular for many years. The clue is hinting at a well-known brand in the non-alcoholic beer category, making "O'DOUL" the correct answer.
Bring about : INDUCE
"Bring about" is a clue indicating causing something to happen, and "induce" means to bring about or cause something to happen. Therefore, "induce" is the right solution for this clue.
Calif. airport with yoga rooms : SFO
The answer is "SFO" because San Francisco International Airport in California has yoga rooms for travelers to relax and unwind.
Calzone center? : ZEE
The clue is a play on words. "Calzone center" refers to the middle letter of the word "calzone," which is the letter Z. In the NATO phonetic alphabet, Z is pronounced as "Zee," making "ZEE" the correct answer.
Celestial body : ORB
The term "orb" can refer to a celestial body, such as a planet or a star. In crossword puzzles, "orb" is a common and concise answer that fits the clue well.
Celestial body : ORB
The term "celestial body" refers to any natural object in space, such as a planet, star, or moon. "Orb" is a common synonym for a celestial body, as it can refer to a spherical object like a planet or a star.
Chuckled, slangily : LOL’ED Down 1 Moral tenet
The answer "LOL’ED" fits the clue "Chuckled, slangily" because it is a slang term meaning to laugh out loud. It is commonly used in online communication to indicate amusement.
City near Salt Lake City : PROVO
PROVO is a city located near Salt Lake City in the state of Utah.
Cold drink brand : ICEE
The answer to "Cold drink brand" is "ICEE" because ICEE is a well-known brand that specializes in frozen beverages, often served at movie theaters and convenience stores.
Cold drink brand : ICEE
The answer "ICEE" fits the clue "Cold drink brand" because ICEE is a popular brand known for its frozen slushy drinks, often found in convenience stores and movie theaters.
Collision repair franchise : MAACO
Maaco is a well-known franchise specializing in collision repair services for vehicles. The clue "Collision repair franchise" fits Maaco perfectly as it is a recognizable name in the industry.
Comfy shoe brand : UGG
The answer "UGG" fits the clue "Comfy shoe brand" because UGG is a well-known brand that is famous for its comfortable and cozy sheepskin boots and slippers.
Compromise, or what solvers do when filling in the first words of 17-, 23-, 40-, and 51-? : MAKE CONCESSIONS
The answer "MAKE CONCESSIONS" fits the clue because it describes the action of compromising, which is what solvers do when filling in the first words of the specified clues. Each of the themed answers requires a compromise or concession to complete, making "MAKE CONCESSIONS" the appropriate solution.
Court ties : DEUCES
The answer "DEUCES" is a slang term for a score of 2 in tennis, which is a type of court tie.
Cow chow : GRASS
The answer "GRASS" is the right solution because cows typically eat grass as their main source of food.
Crew blade : OAR
An oar is a long pole with a flat blade at one end used for rowing a boat. In a crew team, each member uses an oar to propel the boat forward, making "oar" the correct answer for "crew blade."
Cup part : OUNCE
The term "ounce" can refer to a unit of volume used in cooking that is often associated with measuring cups. So, "ounce" is the right solution for the clue "Cup part."
Dawn goddess : EOS
In Greek mythology, Eos is the goddess of the dawn who rises from her home at the edge of the ocean and brings light to the world. This fits the clue "Dawn goddess," making EOS the correct answer.
Dawn goddess : EOS
The answer to "Dawn goddess" is "AURORA" because Aurora is the Roman goddess of the dawn.
Dawn goddess : EOS
EOS is the Greek goddess of the dawn. In Greek mythology, she is often depicted as a beautiful woman with rosy fingers who brings forth the morning light.
Dawn goddess : EOS
"Eos" is the Greek goddess of the dawn, making her the correct answer to the clue "Dawn goddess."
Doesn’t waste : USES
The answer "USES" fits the clue "Doesn't waste" because it implies utilizing something instead of letting it go to waste.
Doesn’t waste : USES
The word "USES" is the right solution because when you use something, you are not wasting it.
Feels sorry for : RUES
"PITIES" is the right answer because it means to feel sorry or compassion for someone or something. It fits the clue "Feels sorry for" perfectly.
Feels sorry for : RUES
"RUES" is the right solution because it means to feel sorrow or regret for something. It is a synonym for "feels sorry for."
Feels sorry for : RUES
"PITIES" is the right solution because it means to feel sorry for someone or something. It fits the clue "Feels sorry for" perfectly.
Food safety concern : E COLI
"E COLI" is the right answer because it is a type of bacteria commonly associated with foodborne illnesses, making it a food safety concern.
Golden yrs. fund : IRA
The answer "IRA" stands for Individual Retirement Account, which is a type of retirement savings account that offers tax advantages for individuals to save for their golden years.
Golden yrs. fund : IRA
The answer "IRA" stands for Individual Retirement Account, which is a type of retirement fund commonly used during one's golden years.
Hypes (up) : AMPS
The word "amps" is a colloquial term meaning to hype up or increase excitement or energy. It fits the clue "Hypes (up)" as it is a synonym for this action.
Inquire : ASK
The word "ASK" is the right solution because it means to inquire or request information from someone.
Inquire : ASK
The word "ask" is a synonym for "inquire," as it means to seek information by posing a question.
Inquire : ASK
"Ask" is the right answer because to inquire means to seek information by asking questions.
Intricate inversion on some roller coasters : PRETZEL LOOP
A pretzel loop is a specific type of inversion on some roller coasters where the track twists in a pretzel-like shape. The answer "PRETZEL LOOP" fits the clue because it accurately describes this unique element commonly found on roller coasters.
Iowa State city : AMES
The answer to "Iowa State city" being "AMES" is correct because Ames is a city in the state of Iowa.
Italian bubbly : ASTI
The answer is "ASTI" because Asti is a type of Italian sparkling wine, also known as Asti Spumante.
Italian bubbly : ASTI
The answer "ASTI" is the right solution because it refers to Asti Spumante, a popular Italian sparkling wine.
Language of Tehran : FARSI
"FARSI" is the right answer because it is the official language of Iran, and Tehran is the capital of Iran where Farsi is predominantly spoken.
Latin I verb : AMO
"Amo" is the Latin verb for "I love." In Latin, verbs are often listed in dictionaries in the first person singular form, which is why "amo" is the correct answer for the clue "Latin I verb."
Like a dance marathon : TIRING
The answer "TIRING" makes sense because dance marathons are typically long and exhausting events that can wear out the participants.
Like some fears : PRIMAL
The answer "PRIMAL" is right because it describes fears that are instinctive or basic to human nature, often originating from primal instincts or experiences.
Lorne Michaels’s show, familiarly : SNL
"SNL" is the abbreviation for "Saturday Night Live," which is a popular late-night television show created by Lorne Michaels. The clue is asking for a shortened, familiar way to refer to Lorne Michaels's show, making "SNL" the correct answer.
Lounge around : LOLL
The word "LOLL" means to lounge or relax in a lazy way. It is a synonym for lounging around, making it the correct answer for the clue.
Luxury watch : OMEGA
"OMEGA" is a luxury watch brand known for its high-quality timepieces and long history of watchmaking. It is a well-known brand in the luxury watch industry, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Luxury watch."
Mani- : PEDI
The clue "Mani-" is a common abbreviation for "manicure," which refers to the care of hands and nails. The answer "PEDI" completes the word as "pedicure," which is the care of feet and toenails.
Menu icon that resembles a patty in a bun : HAMBURGER BUTTON
The term "HAMBURGER BUTTON" is commonly used in web design to refer to a menu icon that consists of three horizontal lines stacked on top of each other, resembling a patty in a bun like a hamburger. It is a recognizable symbol for a menu on websites and apps.
Not candid : POSED
On the wrong side (of) : AFOUL
"AFOUL" means in a problematic or difficult situation, which can be interpreted as being on the wrong side of something. Therefore, it is the right solution for the clue "On the wrong side (of)".
On the wrong side (of) : AFOUL
"AFOUL" means in a state of collision or entanglement, which can be interpreted as being on the wrong side of something.
Own up to : ADMIT
The answer "COP" is the right solution because it is a common slang term meaning to admit or confess to something. It is often used in the phrase "cop to," which means to own up or take responsibility for something.
Own up to : ADMIT
"Own up (to)" is a common phrase that means to admit or confess to something. The word "admit" is a synonym for confess, making it the right solution for this clue.
Own up to : ADMIT
The answer "ADMIT" fits because it means to confess or acknowledge something, which is what "owning up to" something entails.
Playroom pile : TOYS
The answer "TOYS" fits the clue "Playroom pile" because toys are commonly found in a playroom and are often piled or scattered around the room for children to play with.
Quick deposition of a king? : MATE IN ONE
"Quick deposition of a king?" is a cryptic crossword clue where "king" refers to the chess piece. In chess, a "mate in one" is a move that results in the opponent's king being in checkmate after just one move. So, the answer "MATE IN ONE" fits the clue as it refers to a quick way to depose a king in chess.
Rae of “Barbie” : ISSA
The answer "ISSA" is the right solution because the actress Rae who played Barbie in the web series "Barbie: Life in the Dreamhouse" is named Issa Rae.
Rae of “Barbie” : ISSA
The answer "ISSA" is the right solution because Issa Rae is an actress and writer known for her role in the TV series "Insecure" and for co-creating the web series "Awkward Black Girl."
Red-and-white pattern : CANDY STRIPE
The answer "CANDY STRIPE" fits the clue "Red-and-white pattern" because candy stripes are typically red and white striped patterns often seen on clothing or decor.
Response to “Who wants to go to Disneyland?” : I DO
"I DO" is the right solution because it is a common enthusiastic response to a question or statement, such as "Who wants to go to Disneyland?" It shows eagerness or willingness to participate in the activity mentioned.
Setting for Big Ben, for short : GMT
The abbreviation "GMT" stands for Greenwich Mean Time, which is the time zone used at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, where Big Ben is located.
Shiba __ : INU
The answer to "Shiba __" is "INU" because "INU" is the Japanese word for "dog," and Shiba Inu is a specific breed of dog from Japan.
Shiba __ : INU
The answer "INU" completes the phrase "Shiba Inu," which is a popular breed of dog.
Simple tops : TEES
The answer to "Simple tops" is "TEES" because "tops" can refer to the upper part of clothing, and "tees" are simple tops that are commonly worn.
Simple tops : TEES
"Simple tops" is a clue looking for a short and basic type of clothing that covers the upper body. The answer "TEES" refers to T-shirts, which are simple tops that are commonly worn casually.
Soccer superstar Lionel : MESSI
The answer "MESSI" fits because Lionel Messi is a well-known soccer superstar, making it the correct solution to the clue.
Soccer superstar Lionel : MESSI
Lionel Messi is a well-known soccer superstar, making "MESSI" the correct answer to the clue.
Stashes, as a football : TUCKS
"TUCKS" is the right answer because in football, a player may "tuck" the ball securely against their body to protect it from being taken away by the opposing team. This action is often done when running with the ball to prevent a fumble.
Sticky stuff : TAR
The word "GOOP" is a colloquial term used to describe sticky substances or gooey materials. It fits perfectly with the clue "Sticky stuff" as it is a concise and commonly understood answer.
Sticky stuff : TAR
The answer to "Sticky stuff" is "GLUE" because glue is a common adhesive substance that is known for its sticky properties.
Sticky stuff : TAR
"SAP" is the right solution because it is a sticky substance that is often found in trees and plants. It fits the clue "Sticky stuff" well.
Sticky stuff : TAR
"Goo" is the right solution for "Sticky stuff" because goo is a sticky, viscous substance.
Sticky stuff : TAR
TAR is a sticky substance that is often used to patch up roads. It fits the clue "Sticky stuff" because it is known for its adhesive properties.
Sticky stuff : TAR
"Sticky stuff" is a common characteristic of jam, which is a sweet spread made from fruit and sugar. It is sticky in texture, making it the right answer to this clue.
Sticky stuff : TAR
"TAR" is the right solution for "Sticky stuff" because tar is a thick, sticky substance that is often used for paving roads or sealing roofs. It is known for its adhesive properties and ability to stick to surfaces.
Sticky stuff : TAR
"SAP" is the right solution because it is a sticky substance that is often found in trees and plants.
Strainer : SIEVE
"SIEVE" is the right answer because a sieve is a utensil with a mesh or perforated bottom used for straining liquids or sifting dry ingredients.
Style manual org. : MLA
The answer is "MLA" because MLA stands for Modern Language Association, which is an organization that publishes widely used style manuals for academic writing.
Sworn enemy : FOE
"Foe" is a synonym for "sworn enemy." In this context, "foe" refers to someone who is actively opposed or hostile towards another person.
Tablet download : APP
The answer is "APP" because tablets are commonly used to download and access applications, or apps, for various purposes.
Tablet download : APP
The answer "APP" is short for application, which is a software program that can be downloaded onto a tablet for various functions and uses.
Take the wheel : STEER
"Take the wheel" is a phrase often used to mean to steer a vehicle. The word "steer" means to control the direction of a vehicle, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Take the wheel : STEER
The answer "STEER" is the right solution because when you "take the wheel," you are in control of the direction the vehicle is going, which involves steering.
Tennis great Sampras : PETE
The answer to "Tennis great Sampras" is "PETE" because Pete Sampras is a well-known tennis player, and "PETE" is a common nickname for the name Peter, which is Sampras' first name.
Tennis great Sampras : PETE
The answer "PETE" is the right solution because "Tennis great Sampras" refers to Pete Sampras, a former professional tennis player.
Tennis great Sampras : PETE
"Pete" is the nickname for tennis great Sampras.
Textured features that help soundproof spaces : POPCORN CEILINGS
The answer "POPCORN CEILINGS" fits the clue because popcorn ceilings have a textured surface that helps absorb sound and improve acoustics in a room.
Trig ratios : SINES
The trigonometric functions sine, cosine, and tangent are commonly referred to as trig ratios. In this case, "Trig ratios" specifically refers to the sine function, making "SINES" the correct answer.
Verify, in a way : CARD
The answer "CARD" is the right solution because to "verify, in a way" can mean to check someone's identification card.
Wand-waving org. : TSA
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for security at airports and they use wand-like devices to scan passengers and their luggage.
Wand-waving org. : TSA
The answer "TSA" is the right solution because it stands for Transportation Security Administration, the organization responsible for security in airports and waving wands during security checks.
Wraparound dress : SARI
A wraparound dress is a traditional Indian garment that consists of a long piece of fabric wrapped around the body, which is called a SARI.
__ Speedwagon : REO
The clue is asking for a band name, and "Speedwagon" is a hint towards the band's name. "REO Speedwagon" is a classic rock band that was popular in the 1970s and 1980s, making it the correct answer.
__ Speedwagon : REO
The rock band "REO Speedwagon" is a well-known group, making "REO" the correct answer for that clue.
__ Speedwagon : REO
REO Speedwagon is a rock band. "REO" is the first part of the band's name, making it the correct answer to the clue.
“1, 2 Step” singer : CIARA
Ciara is a singer known for the hit song "1, 2 Step," making her the correct answer to the clue.
“30 for 30” airer : ESPN
The answer is "ESPN" because "30 for 30" is a documentary series produced by ESPN, making it the likely network that airs the show.
“30 for 30” airer : ESPN
ESPN is the network that airs the documentary series "30 for 30," making it the correct answer to the clue.
“Carpe diem” hashtag : YOLO
YOLO stands for "You Only Live Once," a phrase often used to encourage living in the moment and taking risks, similar to the sentiment of "Carpe diem."
“Divine Comedy” poet : DANTE
The "Divine Comedy" is a famous work by Dante Alighieri, an Italian poet. Therefore, the answer to the clue "Divine Comedy poet" is "DANTE."
“Divine Comedy” poet : DANTE
DANTE is the right answer because the poet who wrote "Divine Comedy" is Dante Alighieri.
“Erin Burnett OutFront” channel : CNN
The answer is "CNN" because "Erin Burnett OutFront" is a show that airs on the CNN channel.
“Erin Burnett OutFront” channel : CNN
The answer is "CNN" because "Erin Burnett OutFront" is a show that airs on the CNN channel.
“Hold __ your hat!” : ONTO
The phrase "Hold onto your hat!" is an idiomatic expression used to tell someone to brace themselves or be prepared for something exciting or unexpected. In this context, "onto" is the correct answer because it signifies the action of gripping or holding onto something tightly.
“Hold __ your hat!” : ONTO
The phrase "Hold onto your hat!" is a common expression used to advise someone to brace themselves or be prepared for something exciting or unexpected. In this context, "onto" means to grasp or hold firmly.
“Women & Money” podcast host Suze : ORMAN
Suze Orman is a well-known financial advisor and the host of the podcast "Women & Money." The answer "ORMAN" fits the clue because it refers to Suze Orman, who is the host of the podcast mentioned.