Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 20 March 2024, Wednesday. 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.
1984 mermaid movie : SPLASH Down 1 Hit it off
The 1984 mermaid movie referred to in the clue is "Splash," starring Daryl Hannah as a mermaid. The answer "SPLASH" fits the clue and corresponds to the movie title. Let me know if you need help with anything else!
Amtrak stop : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." is short for abbreviation, indicating that the answer to the clue is an abbreviation. In this case, "Amtrak stop" is often abbreviated in crossword puzzles as a train station code.
Ancestor of the romance languages : LATIN
Latin is the ancestor of the romance languages because it was the language spoken by the Romans, and from Latin, languages such as French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese developed.
Are cast members of : APPEAR IN
The answer "APPEAR IN" fits the clue "Are cast members of" because cast members are individuals who appear in a production, such as a movie or play.
Assessment that may end with “Pencils down” : TEST
The answer "TEST" fits because an assessment often ends with the instruction "Pencils down" indicating that the test is over.
Ate away : ERODED
"ERODED" means to gradually wear away or deteriorate, which fits the clue "Ate away" as it implies a slow process of consumption or decay.
Audiophile’s setup, and an apt description of the perimeter of this puzzle : SURROUND SOUND
The answer "SURROUND SOUND" is the right solution because an audiophile's setup typically includes a surround sound system with speakers placed around the room for immersive audio experience. The perimeter of a puzzle refers to the outer edges, and in this case, "SURROUND SOUND" fits as it describes a setup that surrounds the listener with sound.
Baby : INFANT
The word "baby" is commonly used to refer to an infant, which is a very young child or baby. "Infant" is a synonym for baby, making it the correct answer.
Busy restaurant’s notification device : PAGER
The answer "PAGER" fits because in a busy restaurant, a pager is often used to notify customers when their table is ready.
Button alternative : SNAP
The answer "SNAP" is the right solution because it is an alternative fastening method to buttons, commonly used on clothing.
CARE, e.g. : NGO
NGOs are organizations that provide care and support for various causes, making "CARE, e.g." a clue for NGO.
Cliche : TRITE
"Trite" is a synonym for "cliche," both words refer to something that is overused or lacking in originality.
Commercial tune : JINGLE
The answer "JINGLE" fits the clue "Commercial tune" because a jingle is a short and catchy song or tune used in advertising to promote a product or brand.
Communication syst. with hand motions : ASL
The answer "ASL" stands for American Sign Language, which is a communication system using hand motions.
Comprehend : GRASP
The word "fathom" means to understand or comprehend something deeply. It is a suitable answer to the clue "Comprehend" because it accurately represents the act of fully grasping or comprehending a concept or situation.
Comprehend : GRASP
"Grasp" can mean to understand or comprehend something fully. In this context, "comprehend" is a synonym for "grasp," making it the right answer.
Contract that may prevent bad PR : NDA
"NDA" stands for Non-Disclosure Agreement, which is a contract that legally prevents one party from disclosing certain information to others. By keeping information confidential, it can prevent bad PR (Public Relations) for a company or individual.
Creative works : OPUSES
"Opuses" is the plural form of "opus," which refers to a creative work, especially a musical composition or other piece of art. It is commonly used in the context of referring to the body of work of a particular artist or composer.
Crux : GIST
The word "crux" means the most important or decisive point. "Gist" also means the main point or essence of something, making it a suitable synonym for "crux."
Dad : POP
The answer "PAPA" fits the clue "Dad" because "PAPA" is a common informal term for father in many languages.
Dad : POP
The term "pop" is a casual or affectionate way to refer to one's father, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Dad."
Developing : UNFOLDING
The word "developing" can be synonymous with "unfolding," as something that is developing is gradually unfolding or revealing itself over time.
Eurythmics lead singer Lennox : ANNIE
Annie Lennox is the lead singer of the Eurythmics, making "ANNIE" the correct answer.
Feels sorry for : PITIES
"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.
Fertile Crescent river : TIGRIS
The Tigris River is one of the two main rivers in the Fertile Crescent region, along with the Euphrates River. It flows through modern-day Iraq and joins the Euphrates before emptying into the Persian Gulf.
French noble : DUC
"DUC" is the right solution because it is a French title of nobility that is equivalent to the English title of Duke.
Gina Boswell of Bath & Body Works, e.g. : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." is the right solution because it indicates that Gina Boswell's title at Bath & Body Works is an abbreviation, suggesting that she holds a specific position or role within the company.
Go from 4×6 to 8×10, say : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." stands for abbreviation. In this clue, "4x6" and "8x10" are abbreviations for common photo print sizes, which go from 4 inches by 6 inches to 8 inches by 10 inches.
Goal : AIM
The word "aim" is a synonym for "goal." It represents the objective or target that someone is trying to achieve.
Goal : AIM
The word "end" can refer to the objective or target that one aims to achieve, making it a suitable answer for the clue "Goal."
Goal : AIM
The word "AIM" is a synonym for "goal," as it refers to the objective or target that someone is trying to achieve.
Guidelines : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." is short for "abbreviation," which is a guideline commonly used in crossword puzzles to indicate that an abbreviation is the answer.
Half a situp : CRUNCH
The answer "CRUNCH" fits the clue "Half a situp" because a crunch is a type of abdominal exercise that is similar to a situp but only involves lifting the upper body halfway up.
How baked potatoes may be cooked : IN FOIL
The answer "IN FOIL" is correct because baked potatoes are often cooked wrapped in aluminum foil to help retain heat and moisture during the cooking process.
Huge success : SMASH
The answer "SMASH" fits because it is a common term used to describe something that is a huge success, like a hit movie or a popular song.
JFK predecessor : DDE
The answer "DDE" stands for Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was the predecessor of John F. Kennedy as the President of the United States.
Knight cap : HELMET
The word "knight" indicates a medieval warrior, and a "cap" is a type of headgear. A helmet is a type of headgear worn by knights, making "HELMET" the correct answer.
Like some purchases : IN-APP
The answer "IN-APP" fits the clue "Like some purchases" because it refers to purchases made within a mobile application, often using a digital payment method within the app itself.
Messenger molecule : RNA
The answer to "Messenger molecule" is "RNA" because RNA (ribonucleic acid) is responsible for carrying genetic information from DNA to the protein synthesis machinery in cells. It acts as a messenger between DNA and the production of proteins.
Messenger molecule : RNA
RNA, or Ribonucleic acid, is a type of messenger molecule that carries genetic information from DNA to the protein-making machinery in a cell. It is responsible for translating the genetic code into proteins, making it the correct answer for the clue "Messenger molecule."
Mouths off to : SASSES
The word "SASSES" means talking back impudently or rudely, which fits the clue "Mouths off to" as it implies speaking disrespectfully to someone.
NFL passing stat : ATT
Origami birds : CRANES
The answer "CRANES" is correct because cranes are a common origami design, often made by folding paper into the shape of a bird.
Pet re-homing org. : ASPCA
The answer to "Pet re-homing org." is "SPCA" because SPCA stands for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which is an organization that helps find new homes for abandoned or mistreated pets.
Pet re-homing org. : ASPCA
The answer is "ASPCA" because it stands for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, an organization that helps re-home pets.
Piglike rhino kin : TAPIR
Tapirs are piglike in appearance and are related to rhinoceroses, making them the correct answer to the clue "Piglike rhino kin."
Playground retort : DID TOO!
The playground retort "Are not!" is a common response to someone's statement. In this case, the clue is asking for the actual retort, which is "ARENOT".
Playground retort : DID TOO!
The answer "ARE TOO!" is a common playground retort because it is a simple and direct response to someone's statement. When someone says something, another person might reply with "ARE TOO!" to assert that the statement is true for themselves as well.
Playground retort : DID TOO!
The answer "AM TOO!" is a common playground retort because it is a simple and direct way of asserting that the statement made by someone else is also true for oneself. It is a way of expressing disagreement or contradicting what someone has said.
Playground retort : DID TOO!
The answer "AM SO!" is a suitable solution for the clue "Playground retort" because it is a common phrase used by children to assert or defend themselves in a playful argument. It is a concise and straightforward response that fits the context of a playground interaction.
Playground retort : DID TOO!
"DOES SO!" is a common retort on the playground that is used to contradict or challenge someone's statement.
Playground retort : DID TOO!
"DID TOO!" is a common retort on the playground when someone is denying something and the other person insists that it is true. It is a playful way of asserting that the statement is indeed accurate.
Poetry event : SLAM
The answer "SLAM" is a type of poetry event where poets perform their work in a competitive setting, often emphasizing spoken word and performance.
Prop for a rock singer : MIC STAND
The answer "MIC STAND" fits the clue because a mic stand is a prop commonly used by rock singers to hold their microphone while performing on stage.
Provide a view : OPINE
"OPINE" means to express an opinion or provide a view on a certain topic, making it a suitable answer for the clue "Provide a view."
Quirky habit : TIC
"TIC" is the right solution because a "TIC" is a sudden, repetitive, nonrhythmic motor movement or vocalization. It fits the clue "Quirky habit" as a TIC can be considered a quirky or unusual habit.
Remove, as a seatbelt : UNFASTEN
The answer "UNFASTEN" fits because it means to remove or release a seatbelt.
Ruling faction after a coup : JUNTA
The term "junta" refers to a small group of people, typically military officers, who rule a country after seizing power, often through a coup d'état. Therefore, "ruling faction after a coup" is best represented by the answer "JUNTA."
Sea walls : DIKES
"Dikes" are structures built to prevent flooding by holding back water, similar to sea walls. In this context, "sea walls" can be synonymous with "dikes," making it the correct answer.
Sequel to Puzo’s “The Last Don” : OMERTA
The answer "OMERTA" is the right solution because "Omerta" is a term often associated with the Mafia, and Mario Puzo's novels, including "The Last Don," are known for their portrayal of Mafia culture and themes.
Silky : SMOOTH
The word "smooth" is synonymous with "silky," as both describe a texture that is soft, even, and free from roughness.
Sister of Erato : CLIO
CLIO is the Muse of history in Greek mythology, making her the sister of Erato, who is the Muse of lyric poetry. This relationship between the two muses is why CLIO is the correct answer to the clue "Sister of Erato."
Soccer equipment : CLEATS
The answer "CLEATS" is the right solution because cleats are the specialized shoes with studs on the sole that soccer players wear to provide traction on the field.
Some combines : DEERES
The answer "DEERES" fits the clue "Some combines" because John Deere is a popular brand of combines used in agriculture.
Stout spout : TAP
The answer "TAP" fits the clue "Stout spout" because a tap is a device used to dispense liquids, such as stout beer, from a keg or barrel.
Time out? : NAP
The answer "HOLD IT!" is the right solution to the clue "Time out!" because it is a common phrase used to interrupt or pause a situation or conversation.
Time out? : NAP
The clue "Time out?" is a play on words suggesting taking a break or a nap, making "NAP" the right solution.
Timekeepers that don’t work on a rainy day : SUNDIALS
Sundials rely on the position of the sun to tell time, so they do not work on a rainy day when the sun is obscured by clouds.
Totaled : RAN TO
Ultimate : LAST
"Ultimate" can mean "final" or "last." In this case, "last" is the correct answer because it fits the definition of the clue.
Ultimate : LAST
"NTH" is the right solution because in mathematics, "N" is often used as a variable representing an unknown or arbitrary number. So, when we say "NTH," we are referring to an unspecified or ultimate number, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Ultimate."
Ultimate : LAST
The word "ultimate" can mean final or last in a series or process. In this case, "last" is a synonym for ultimate.
Unappealing food : SLOP
The answer "SLOP" fits the clue "Unappealing food" because slop typically refers to unappetizing or poorly prepared food, making it a suitable answer for the given clue.
Underwater plant with gas-filled bladders : KELP
Kelp is an underwater plant that has gas-filled bladders called pneumatocysts which help the plant float towards the surface to receive sunlight for photosynthesis. This makes "KELP" the correct answer for the clue "Underwater plant with gas-filled bladders."
Unnerve : RATTLE
The word "spook" means to frighten or unnerve someone, which makes it an appropriate answer for the clue "Unnerve".
Unnerve : RATTLE
The word "RATTLE" means to make someone feel nervous or unsettled, which is synonymous with the word "unnerve."
Unscrupulous : AMORAL
"Unscrupulous" means having no moral principles. "Amoral" means lacking a moral sense, so it is the right solution.
Valvoline rival : STP
"STP" is a brand of automotive lubricants and additives that is a rival to Valvoline in the market.
Watering hole in TV’s “MASH” : ROSIE’S
In the TV show "MASH," Rosie's Bar is a popular watering hole where the characters often gathered. The clue "Watering hole in TV's 'MASH'" is referring to Rosie's Bar, making "ROSIE'S" the correct answer.
Wayward : ERRANT
"Wayward" is a synonym for "errant," meaning straying from the right course or standards.
Woolgathers? : SHEARS
Youngest daughter of Nicholas II : ANASTASIA
The youngest daughter of Nicholas II, the last Emperor of Russia, was named Anastasia.
Yukon neighbor : ALASKA
"Yukon neighbor" is a clue looking for a location that is close to the Yukon territory in Canada. Alaska is a U.S. state that borders the Yukon, making it the correct answer.
Zellweger of “Judy” : RENEE
The answer is "RENEE" because Renée Zellweger is the actress who portrayed Judy Garland in the biographical film "Judy."
“A Wrinkle in Time” novelist Madeleine : L’ENGLE
The answer is "L'ENGLE" because Madeleine L'Engle is the author of the novel "A Wrinkle in Time."
“Mean Girls” writer Fey : TINA
Tina Fey is the writer of the movie "Mean Girls", making "TINA" the correct answer for the clue.
“The __ is calm tonight” : “Dover Beach” opening
The answer is "SEA." In the poem "Dover Beach" by Matthew Arnold, the opening line is "The sea is calm tonight."