Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 12 March 2024, Tuesday. 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.
43,560 square feet : ACRE
An acre is a unit of measurement commonly used to describe land area, and it is equivalent to 43,560 square feet. Therefore, the answer "ACRE" fits the clue "43,560 square feet" perfectly.
Agonize (over) : FRET
"FRET" is the right solution because to "agonize over" something means to worry or be anxious about it, and "fret" is a synonym for worry or be anxious.
Alabama-born activist Parks : ROSA
Rosa Parks was a famous civil rights activist born in Alabama who is known for her refusal to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in Montgomery in 1955.
Approximately : ABOUT
"ORSO" is an Italian word that translates to "about" or "approximately" in English. Therefore, "ORSO" is the right solution for the clue "Approximately".
Approximately : ABOUT
The answer "OR SO" is the right solution for the clue "Approximately" because it implies an approximation or estimation without providing an exact value. It is a common phrase used to indicate an approximate amount or time.
Approximately : ABOUT
"Approximately" is a synonym for "about," which means close to a certain amount or estimate. In crossword puzzles, "about" is commonly used to indicate an approximation or rough estimation of a quantity or value.
Best Western rival : RAMADA
The answer is "RAMADA" because Ramada is a hotel chain that competes with Best Western in the hospitality industry.
Bit of rosemary : SPRIG
"SPRIG" is the right solution because a sprig is a small stem with leaves, often used in cooking to add flavor, like a bit of rosemary.
British streetcars : TRAMS
"TRAMS" is the right solution because streetcars are often referred to as trams in British English.
Carrier that makes short hops : REGIONAL AIRLINE
"REGIONAL AIRLINE" is the right answer because regional airlines typically operate shorter flights between smaller airports within a specific region, making them carriers that make short hops.
Caused : LED TO
The answer "LED TO" fits the clue "Caused" because it means to result in or bring about a particular situation or outcome.
Close-knit group : CADRE
CADRE is the right answer because it refers to a small, tightly-knit group of people with a common purpose or goal.
Confident poker declaration : I RAISE
The answer "I RAISE" fits the clue "Confident poker declaration" because in poker, a player confidently announces their intention to increase the current bet by saying "I RAISE."
Cooking spray brand : PAM
PAM is a well-known brand of cooking spray commonly used to prevent food from sticking to cookware. It is a popular choice for greasing pans and grills due to its non-stick properties.
Cunning scheme : PLOY
"PLOY" is the right solution because a ploy is a cunning plan or scheme used to deceive or outwit someone.
Dad : PAPA
The answer "PAPA" fits the clue "Dad" because "PAPA" is a common informal term for father in many languages.
Dad : PAPA
The term "pop" is a casual or affectionate way to refer to one's father, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Dad."
Decide by calling heads or tails, and an apt title for this puzzle : FLIP A COIN
The answer "FLIP A COIN" is the right solution because it refers to the act of making a decision by tossing a coin and letting it land to determine an outcome. The phrase "FLIP A COIN" is also an apt title for the puzzle as it hints at the random nature of making a choice in this way.
Devoured : ATE
The word "ate" is the past tense of the verb "eat", which means to consume food or drink. "Devoured" is a synonym of "ate", meaning to eat something hungrily or quickly.
Devoured : ATE
The answer "ATE UP" is the right solution because it is a common phrase that means to consume food quickly and completely.
Devoured : ATE
"Devoured" is a clue that indicates the action of eating something quickly or eagerly. The word "ATE" is the past tense of the verb "eat," which means to consume food. Therefore, "ATE" is the right answer to the clue "Devoured."
Din : ROAR
The word "Din" is a loud, continuous noise. "Roar" is a synonym for a loud noise, making it the right solution.
Districts : AREAS
"Districts" and "areas" are both terms used to refer to specific regions or sections within a larger area. In this context, they are synonymous, making "AREAS" the correct answer.
Draped garment in Hindi films : SARI
The draped garment commonly worn in Hindi films is called a "sari." It is a traditional Indian attire consisting of a long piece of fabric wrapped around the body.
Duane __ : New York drugstore chain
The answer to "Duane __" is "NYC drugstore chain" because Duane Reade is a well-known drugstore chain in New York City.
Duane __ : New York drugstore chain
The answer is "Reade" because Duane Reade is a well-known drugstore chain in New York City.
Editor’s “Actually, don’t cut that” : STET
STET is a proofreading mark used to indicate that a previously marked change should be ignored and the original text should remain as is. In this case, the editor is saying "Actually, don't cut that" by using the proofreading mark STET.
Elite British boarding school : ETON
Eton is a prestigious British boarding school known for educating members of the elite, including many British politicians and royals.
Female sheep : EWES
"EWE" is the right solution because it is a common term used to refer to a female sheep.
Female sheep : EWES
The answer "EWE" is the right solution because a female sheep is called a ewe in the English language.
Female sheep : EWES
The term "ewes" refers to female sheep in the crossword world. It is a common term used to specifically identify female members of the ovine species.
Fill-in worker : TEMP
The answer "TEMP" is short for temporary worker, which is someone who fills in for a regular employee on a temporary basis.
Fill-in worker : TEMP
The answer "TEMP" is short for temporary worker, someone who is hired for a short period of time to fill in for someone else.
Fitness class : GYM
The answer "GYM" fits the clue "Fitness class" because a gym is a place where fitness classes are typically held.
Fitzgerald of jazz : ELLA
Ella Fitzgerald was a famous jazz singer known for her incredible vocal talent and improvisational skills. She is often referred to simply as "Ella" in the world of jazz, making "ELLA" the right answer for the clue "Fitzgerald of jazz."
Fix for distressed genes? : DNA REPAIR
The answer "DNA REPAIR" fits the clue "Fix for distressed genes" because DNA repair is the process by which a cell identifies and corrects damage to the DNA molecules that encode its genome. When genes are distressed or damaged, DNA repair mechanisms come into play to fix the errors and restore the genetic information to its original state.
Friendly cat’s spot : LAP
The answer "LAP" fits the clue "Friendly cat’s spot" because cats often sit on their owner's lap to show affection and seek comfort.
Gem from an oyster : PEARL
The answer "PEARL" is correct because a pearl is a gem that is formed inside an oyster.
Get hitched in a hurry : ELOPE
"ELOPE" is the right answer because it means to get married quickly and often in a secret or unconventional way, typically without a formal ceremony.
Hon : LUV
The answer to "Hon" is "LUV" because "Hon" is a term of endearment, and "LUV" is a commonly used abbreviation for "love," which is another term of endearment.
Hon : LUV
"Hon" is a term of endearment, and "LUV" is a common informal way of saying "love," which is also a term of endearment. Both words convey a similar meaning of affection, making "LUV" a fitting answer for the clue "Hon."
Hoppy brew, briefly : IPA
"IPA" stands for India Pale Ale, which is a type of hoppy beer. In the context of the clue, "Hoppy brew, briefly" is a clever way to hint at IPA as the answer.
In a mental fog : DAZED
The word "DAZED" means to be in a state of confusion or unable to think clearly, which is similar to being in a mental fog.
Jealous feeling : ENVY
"Jealous feeling" is a common clue for the word "ENVY" because envy specifically refers to feeling resentful or unhappy about someone else's possessions, qualities, or achievements.
Kristen of “Bridesmaids” : WIIG
Kristen Wiig is the actress who starred in the movie "Bridesmaids," making "WIIG" the correct answer.
Like some monuments at night : UPLIT
This answer fits because "uplit" describes objects illuminated from below, like monuments at night often are.
Like takeout food : TO-GO
"TO-GO" is the right answer because it describes food that is meant to be taken away from a restaurant and eaten elsewhere. It is a common term used for takeout food.
Listener-supported news source : NPR
NPR stands for National Public Radio, which is known for being a news source supported by listener donations rather than advertising revenue.
Love, in Italian : AMORE
AMORE is the Italian word for "love." In this clue, the word "in Italian" indicates that we are looking for the Italian translation of the word "love," which is AMORE.
Many an Omani : ARAB
The answer "ARAB" is correct because Oman is a country in the Arab region, and the people from Oman are considered Arabs.
Mediterranean oil source : OLIVE
The answer "OLIVE" is the right solution because olives are commonly used to produce olive oil in the Mediterranean region.
Morocco’s capital : RABAT
The answer is "RABAT" because Rabat is the capital city of Morocco.
Move like sap : OOZE
The word "ooze" means to move slowly and smoothly, similar to how sap moves.
Nabisco brand : OREO
"OREO" is the right answer because it is a popular brand of cookies made by Nabisco.
Nabisco brand : OREO
"Nabisco brand" is a clue that is looking for a specific brand of products. NILLA is a brand of vanilla-flavored wafers made by Nabisco, so it fits the clue.
Nabisco brand : NILLA
"OREO" is the right answer because it is a popular brand of cookies made by Nabisco.
Nabisco brand : NILLA
"Nabisco brand" is a clue that is looking for a specific brand of products. NILLA is a brand of vanilla-flavored wafers made by Nabisco, so it fits the clue.
Neck and neck : TIED
"EVENSTEVEN" is a colloquial phrase that means "equal or tied." Therefore, it fits the clue "Neck and neck," which also means that two things are equal or tied.
Neck and neck : TIED
"TIED" is the right solution because when two competitors are "neck and neck," they are at the same level or position, resulting in a tie.
Nettle : IRK
The word "IRK" means to annoy or irritate, which is a synonym for the word "Nettle."
Newspaper pundit pieces : OP-EDS
"OP-EDS" stands for "opposite the editorial page," and refers to articles written by guest writers or columnists expressing their opinions on current events or issues. These pieces are typically found in newspapers and provide a different perspective from the publication's editorial board.
Open, as toothpaste : UNCAP
The word "UNCAP" means to open something by removing its cap, which is what you do with toothpaste to use it.
Pastrami on __ : RYE
The clue "Pastrami on __" is a common menu item in delis. The traditional bread used for this sandwich is "RYE."
Pet adoption org. : SPCA
The answer "SPCA" is the right solution because it stands for "Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals," which is a well-known pet adoption organization.
Pet adoption org. : SPCA
The answer "SPCA" stands for Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which is a common organization that helps with pet adoptions.
Post-it jotting : NOTE
The answer "NOTE" fits the clue "Post-it jotting" because a note is a short piece of writing intended to help remember something, which is often written on a Post-it.
Puts the kibosh on : ENDS Down 1 Fly into pieces
The word "halts" means to put an end to or to stop something. In this context, "puts the kibosh on" means to bring something to a halt or to stop it. Therefore, "halts" is the right answer.
Puts the kibosh on : ENDS Down 1 Fly into pieces
The word "ENDS" means to put an end to something, which is another way of saying "puts the kibosh on." So, "ENDS" is the right solution for the clue "Puts the kibosh on."
Reaction to a chill or a fright, to Brits : GOOSE PIMPLES
The term "goose pimples" is a British term for the raised bumps on the skin that occur as a reaction to cold or fear. This fits the clue "Reaction to a chill or a fright, to Brits" perfectly.
Red Sea peninsula : SINAI
The Red Sea peninsula is commonly known as Sinai.
Red Sea peninsula : SINAI
The Red Sea peninsula referred to in the clue is commonly known as the Sinai Peninsula. "Sinai" is the correct answer because it is the specific name of the peninsula.
Sentence part with a subject and a predicate : CLAUSE
A clause is a sentence part that contains a subject and a predicate. It can stand alone as a complete sentence or be part of a larger sentence.
Shirt that may have a V-neck : TEE
The answer "TEE" fits the clue because a T-shirt is a type of shirt that commonly has a V-neck.
Sort : ILK
"Sort" is a synonym for "kind" or "type". "Ilk" means "type" or "kind" and is often used in phrases like "of that ilk" to mean "of the same kind". Therefore, "Ilk" is the right solution for the clue "Sort".
Sort : ILK
The word "ilk" can be used to mean "sort" or "kind." In this case, "ilk" is a synonym for "sort," making it the correct answer for the clue.
Source of information for vacation planners : TRAVEL BUREAU
The answer "TRAVEL BUREAU" fits the clue because a travel bureau is a place where vacation planners can get information and assistance in planning their trips.
Spots for pillow talk : BEDS
The answer "BEDS" fits the clue "Spots for pillow talk" because beds are typically where people lie down and have intimate conversations before going to sleep.
Temperature-controlled storage for bottles : WINE VAULT
"WINE VAULT" is the right solution because it refers to a storage space specifically designed to store wine bottles at a controlled temperature to maintain their quality and flavor.
Toward the rudder : AFT
"AFT" is a nautical term that means towards the rear of a ship or boat, where the rudder is located.
Trusting to a fault : NAIVE
"Trusting to a fault" is a clue indicating someone who is overly trusting and easily deceived. The word "NAIVE" fits this description as it means lacking experience or judgment, making someone gullible or easily taken advantage of.
Vaccine-approving org. : FDA
The FDA, or Food and Drug Administration, is the government agency responsible for approving vaccines and ensuring their safety and efficacy.
Word before Leone or Madre : SIERRA …
The word "Sierra" can be followed by "Leone" to form the country Sierra Leone or "Madre" to form the mountain range Sierra Madre.
“Erin Burnett OutFront” channel : CNN
The answer is "CNN" because "Erin Burnett OutFront" is a show that airs on the CNN channel.
“Jerry Maguire” director Cameron : CROWE
The answer is "CROWE" because the director of "Jerry Maguire" is Cameron Crowe.
“Sweet dreams!” : SLEEP WELL!
The answer "SLEEP WELL!" fits the clue "Sweet dreams!" because it is a common way to wish someone a good night's sleep, which is typically associated with having sweet dreams.
“The Wire” drug lord Stanfield : MARLO
Marlo Stanfield is a prominent drug lord character in the TV show "The Wire." His name is often referenced in crossword puzzles, making "MARLO" the correct answer for this clue.
“Understood?” : CLEAR?
The answer "I SEE" is the right solution to the clue "Understood" because it is a common phrase used to indicate comprehension or understanding.
“Understood?” : CLEAR?
The term "TEN-FOUR" is a commonly used phrase in radio communication, especially by truckers and emergency services. It means "message received and understood." Therefore, "TENFOUR" is the right answer to the clue "Understood."
“Understood?” : CLEAR?
The answer "KNEW" fits the clue "Understood" because it means having knowledge or awareness of something.
“Understood?” : CLEAR?
The answer "CLEAR?" is a play on words, as "clear" can mean both "understood" and "easy to see through."
“We __ to be at an impasse” : SEEM
The word "seem" implies uncertainty or possibility, suggesting a situation where it appears that there is an impasse but it may not be definite.
“__ Always Sunny in Philadelphia” : IT’S
The answer "IT’S" fits the clue because the TV show in question is titled "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia."
“__ and Punishment” : CRIME
The answer is "CRIME" because "Crime and Punishment" is a famous novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky.