Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 21 March 2024, 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.
Act the mediator : SEEK A COMPROMISE
"Seek a compromise" means to try to find a middle ground or agreement between two conflicting parties, which is what a mediator does.
Also-ran : LOSER
The term "also-ran" refers to someone who participates in a competition but does not win or achieve success. The word "loser" is a fitting answer because it directly implies someone who has lost or been unsuccessful in a competition. Therefore, "loser" is the correct solution to the clue "Also-ran."
Also-ran : LOSER
The term "also-ran" refers to someone who did not win a competition or race. In this context, "loser" is a synonym for someone who has not won, making it the right solution.
Animal Planet’s “Crikey! It’s the Irwins” co-star : TERRI
The answer "TERRI" fits the clue because Terri Irwin is a co-star on Animal Planet's show "Crikey! It's the Irwins."
Asia’s __ Peninsula : MALAY
The answer "MALAY" fits because the clue is referring to the Malay Peninsula, which is located in Asia.
Astonished letters : OMG!
The answer "OMG!" is commonly used to express astonishment or surprise in text messages and online communication. It is an abbreviation for "Oh my God!" which fits the clue "Astonished letters" quite well.
Blondish : SANDY
The term "sandy" is often used to describe hair that is a light shade of blonde, with hints of yellow or gold, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Blondish."
Breathing room : LEEWAY
The term "leeway" is often used to describe freedom or flexibility to act or move. In this context, "breathing room" can be seen as a metaphor for having space or freedom to maneuver, making "leeway" a fitting answer.
Brings up : REARS
"Brings up" is a clue that indicates raising or nurturing something, which can be synonymous with the word "rears."
Cartoon frame : CEL
The answer to "Cartoon frame" is "CEL" because a cel is a transparent sheet used in traditional animation to create each frame of a cartoon.
Cartoon frame : CEL
"Cel" is the right answer because in traditional animation, a "cel" is a transparent sheet on which objects and characters are drawn or painted. These cels are layered to create the frames of a cartoon.
Catch : ESPY
The word "ESPY" means to catch sight of or to see, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Catch."
Catch : ESPY
Chandon’s partner : MOET
"Chandon" and "Moet" are both well-known champagne brands that are often referred to together, as they are both produced by the same company, Moet & Chandon. Therefore, the answer to "Chandon's partner" is "MOET."
Clockwork part : GEAR
The answer "GEAR" fits the clue "Clockwork part" because gears are essential components in clock mechanisms that help regulate the movement of the hands.
Craft for the first couples cruise? : ARK
The clue "Craft for the first couples cruise?" is a wordplay clue. "Craft" can refer to a boat, and "first couples" can refer to Adam and Eve, who famously sailed on an ark during the biblical flood. Therefore, the answer "ARK" fits the clue.
Dead __ Scrolls : SEA
The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered near the Dead Sea, hence the answer "SEA".
Desserts flipped after baking, and what can be found in the answers to the starred clues : UPSIDE-DOWN CAKES
The answer "UPSIDE-DOWN CAKES" fits the clue because in each starred clue, the answer is a type of cake that is traditionally made by placing fruit and sugar on the bottom of the pan before adding the batter on top. After baking, the cake is flipped upside-down to reveal the fruit topping on top.
Exasperated cry : GAH!
"Gah!" is often used to express frustration or exasperation, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Exasperated cry."
Exasperated cry : GAH!
"UGH!" is a common expression used to convey frustration or exasperation, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Exasperated cry."
Exasperated cry : UGH!
"Gah!" is often used to express frustration or exasperation, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Exasperated cry."
Exasperated cry : UGH!
"UGH!" is a common expression used to convey frustration or exasperation, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Exasperated cry."
F-150 maker : FORD
The answer is "FORD" because Ford is the manufacturer of the F-150 truck model.
Fall birthstone : OPAL
The fall birthstone is "OPAL" because it is the gemstone associated with the month of October.
Fall birthstone : OPAL
Opal is the fall birthstone because it is the birthstone for the month of October. It is a gemstone known for its iridescent colors and is associated with hope and good fortune.
Furniture retailer that sells FIXA tool kits : IKEA
"IKEA" is the right answer because IKEA is a well-known furniture retailer that sells FIXA tool kits in their stores.
Home turf? : LAWN
The clue "Home turf?" is a play on words, suggesting that "home" refers to a residence and "turf" refers to a lawn. Therefore, the answer "LAWN" fits the clue as it is a common feature of a home's exterior.
Illinois alma mater of Ronald Reagan : EUREKA COLLEGE
Eureka College is the alma mater of Ronald Reagan, as he graduated from there in 1932.
Interstate rig : SEMI
The answer "SEMI" fits the clue "Interstate rig" because a "SEMI" is a common abbreviation for a semi-truck, which is a large truck often seen on interstates pulling trailers.
Jedi with an unusual speech pattern : YODA
YODA is known for speaking in an unusual speech pattern in the Star Wars franchise, making him a fitting answer to the clue.
Judith Weir composition : OPERA
Language related to Czech : SLOVAK
The language related to Czech is Slovak because both Czech and Slovak are Slavic languages that are closely related and share many similarities in terms of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
Leg joint : KNEE
The answer "KNEE" fits the clue "Leg joint" because the knee is a major joint that connects the thigh bone to the shin bone, allowing for movement and flexibility in the leg.
Let (up) : EASE
"Let up" means to become less intense or decrease in strength. "Abate" means to become less intense or to decrease in amount or degree. Therefore, "Abate" is the right solution for the clue "Let up".
Let (up) : EASE
"Let up" is a phrasal verb that means to become less intense or to stop. "Relax" is a synonym for this definition, making it the correct answer.
Let (up) : EASE
The phrase "Let (up)" is a common expression that means to ease or reduce in intensity or force. Therefore, the answer "EASE" fits the clue.
Let (up) : EASE
"Let up" is a clue indicating a decrease or reduction in intensity or force. The word "abate" means to become less intense or widespread, making it the correct answer.
Like an unswept hearth : ASHY
The word "ashy" is used to describe something covered in ash, like an unswept hearth would be.
Like some granola : OATEN
"OATEN" is the right solution because it means made of or containing oats, which is a common ingredient in granola.
Like the Dada movement : ANTI-ART
The Dada movement was known for being against traditional art, so the term "ANTI-ART" describes its nature accurately.
Linguist Chomsky : NOAM
Noam Chomsky is a famous linguist known for his work in the field of linguistics, particularly for his theory of generative grammar. "NOAM" is a common crossword answer for the clue "Linguist Chomsky" because it is his first name.
Lip : RIM
The word "sass" can mean impudent or disrespectful speech, which is often characterized by the movement of the lips. Therefore, "lip" can be a synonym for "sass".
Lip : RIM
The answer to "Lip" is "SASS" because "sass" is a slang term that means to speak disrespectfully or in a cheeky manner, which can be associated with someone speaking out of turn or being impudent, similar to what someone might do with their lip.
Lip : RIM
Lip : RIM
The word "rim" can refer to the edge or border of something, like the edge of a cup or a basketball hoop. In this case, "lip" and "rim" are both body parts that can be found at the edge of something, making "RIM" the correct answer.
Loosen, as a bow : UNTIE
"Untie" is the right answer because when you loosen a bow, you typically untie it to release the tension and open it up.
Not that : THIS
The answer to "Not that" is "THIS" because "this" is a word that refers to something close or present, while "that" refers to something farther away or not present.
Not that : THIS
The answer "THIS" is the opposite of "that," making it a suitable response to the clue "Not that."
Officiate at a cook-off, say : TASTE
The answer "TASTE" fits the clue because when you officiate at a cook-off, you typically sample and judge the taste of the dishes.
Org. concerned with “forever chemicals” : EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the organization concerned with regulating and addressing chemicals that have long-lasting effects on the environment and human health, often referred to as "forever chemicals."
Pal : AMIGO
The word "pal" is a casual term for a friend or companion. "CHUM" is a synonym for pal, making it the right solution.
Pal : AMIGO
"Pal" is a term used to refer to a friend or close companion. "Amigo" is the Spanish word for friend, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Pedicure targets : TOES
The answer "TOES" fits the clue "Pedicure targets" because during a pedicure, the nails and skin on the toes are typically the main focus of the treatment.
Policy pro : CZAR
In this context, "CZAR" refers to someone who is an expert or leader in a particular field. So, a "Policy pro" can be referred to as a "CZAR" because they are an expert in creating and implementing policies.
President __ : PRO TEM
The answer "PRO TEM" is short for "President pro tempore," a position in the US Senate. It is the senator who presides over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President.
Puzzle (out) : SUSS
"Suss" is a British slang term that means to figure out or understand something through intuition or investigation. Therefore, "puzzle (out)" is a fitting clue for the answer "suss".
Puzzle (out) : SUSS
"Suss" is a slang term meaning to figure out or understand something. In this context, "Puzzle (out)" is a clue asking for a word that means to solve or understand a puzzle, making "SUSS" the fitting answer.
Quote : CITE
The word "CITE" means to quote or refer to as evidence or support for an argument. It is a synonym for "quote."
Remove from power : OUST
"OUST" means to remove someone from a position of power or authority. In the context of the clue "Remove from power," the answer "OUST" fits perfectly.
Residence : HOME
The word "residence" is often used synonymously with "home," which is a place where someone lives.
Saturn or Mercury : CAR
The clue "Saturn or Mercury" is referring to car brands, Saturn and Mercury, which are both types of cars. Therefore, the answer "CAR" fits the clue.
Scrabble surface : BOARD
The surface on which Scrabble is played is called a board.
SHO subsidiary : TMC
The answer "TMC" is correct because TMC is a subsidiary of the company SHO, which stands for Showtime Networks Inc.
Slacks, slangily : TROU
unknown
Small fry : TOT
"Tots" is a term used to refer to small children, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Small fry."
Soccer star Hamm : MIA
Mia Hamm is a retired American soccer player who is considered one of the greatest female soccer players of all time. Her nickname is MIA, which stands for her full name, Mariel Margaret Hamm.
Soccer star Hamm : MIA
Mia Hamm is a famous soccer star, so "Soccer star Hamm" is a clue pointing to her initials, which are MIA.
Software glitches : BUGS
The term "bugs" is commonly used in the software industry to refer to issues or glitches in a program. It is a fitting answer to the clue "Software glitches."
Spy-fi org. : CIA
The answer to "Spy-fi org." is "CIA" because the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is known for its involvement in espionage and intelligence gathering activities, which aligns with the "spy-fi" genre.
Spy-fi org. : CIA
The CIA is a spy organization, short for Central Intelligence Agency, making it a fitting answer for "Spy-fi org."
Subject of a late-night countdown : SHEEP
Supermodel Hadid : GIGI
"GIGI" is the right solution because Gigi Hadid is a well-known supermodel in the fashion industry.
Synonymous : SAME
The word "same" is a synonym for "synonymous," as both words convey the idea of being identical or having a similar meaning.
Systems of principles : ISMS Down 1 Funny sketches
The answer "ISMS" fits the clue "Systems of principles" because "ISMS" refers to various systems of beliefs or principles, such as capitalism, socialism, or feminism.
Tale : STORY
The word "tale" is often used synonymously with "story," making "STORY" the right solution.
Thing : ITEM
The word "ITEM" is a suitable answer to the clue "Thing" because "item" is a general term that can refer to any object or entity, making it a fitting choice for a generic or unspecified "thing."
Thing : ITEM
The word "item" is often used as a synonym for "thing" in everyday language, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Thing" in a crossword puzzle.
Three or four : A FEW
"A FEW" is the right solution because "Three or four" is a common way of expressing a small, unspecified number, which is exactly what "A FEW" means.
Tony winner Judith : IVEY
Judith Ivey is a Tony Award-winning actress, making "IVEY" the correct answer for "Tony winner Judith."
Unceasingly, in poetry : E’ER
"E'ER" is a shortened form of the word "ever," commonly used in poetry to mean "unceasingly."
Underhanded : SLY
The word "SLY" is the right solution because it means behaving in a cunning or deceitful manner, which is synonymous with being underhanded.
Underhanded : SLY
The word "sly" means underhanded or deceitful, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Underhanded."
Verification tool for online alcohol retailers, e.g. : AGE GATE
The answer "AGE GATE" is the right solution because it refers to the age verification tool used by online alcohol retailers to ensure that customers are of legal drinking age before making a purchase.
Wag : JOKER
unknown
Watering hole where servers may wear leis : TIKI BAR
The answer "TIKI BAR" fits because a TIKI BAR is a type of watering hole known for its tropical and exotic theme, where servers often wear leis as part of the decor and ambiance.
Way to go : ROUTE
"Way to go" is a phrase that means a path or route that leads to success or achievement. Therefore, "PATH" is a suitable answer for this crossword clue.
Way to go : ROUTE
The answer "ROUTE" fits the clue "Way to go" because a route is a way or path to get from one place to another.
Youngsters : KIDDOS
The answer "KIDDOS" is a colloquial term for "youngsters," making it a suitable match for the clue.
Youngsters : KIDDOS
The answer "KIDS" fits the clue "Youngsters" because "kids" is a common term used to refer to children or young people.
__ of life : TREE
The phrase "tree of life" is a common expression referring to a tree that symbolizes various aspects of life in different cultures and religions. It is a well-known term, making "TREE" the right answer for this clue.
__ test : BETA
The term "beta test" refers to a stage in software development where a product is tested by real users before its official release. "Beta" is the correct answer for the clue "__ test" because it directly relates to this specific testing phase.
__ test : BETA
The answer "ACID" fits the clue "__ test" because an acid test is a test used to determine the authenticity or quality of something, often used figuratively to mean a rigorous or conclusive test.
“Clue” actress Madeline : KAHN
Madeline Kahn was an actress known for her role in the movie "Clue," making "KAHN" the correct answer for the clue.
“The Memory of Trees” singer : ENYA
Enya is a well-known Irish singer, and "The Memory of Trees" is one of her popular albums. Therefore, the answer "ENYA" fits the clue "The Memory of Trees singer."
”Malcolm in the Middle” actress : JANE KACZMAREK
Jane Kaczmarek is the actress who played Lois, the mother in the TV show "Malcolm in the Middle."