Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 21 November 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.
Actress Pompeo : ELLEN
The answer "ELLEN" is correct because Ellen Pompeo is an actress known for her role as Meredith Grey on the TV show "Grey's Anatomy."
Actress Tracee __ Ross : ELLIS
Add to the family : ADOPT
The answer "ADOPT" is the right solution because when you adopt someone or something, you are bringing them into your family.
Bert’s buddy : ERNIE
In the TV show "Sesame Street," Bert's buddy is Ernie. They are best friends and often seen together in various skits and segments.
Brand with anti-ant products : RAID
"RAID" is a well-known brand that produces products designed to eliminate ants and other pests, making it the correct answer to the clue "Brand with anti-ant products."
Cake decorator’s substance : FONDANT
"FONDANT" is the right answer because fondant is a commonly used substance for decorating cakes due to its smooth texture and ability to be molded into various shapes and designs.
Compilations for fashion influencers : LOOKBOOKS
The answer "LOOKBOOKS" fits because a lookbook is a collection of photographs showcasing a fashion influencer's outfits and style choices. It is a compilation that influencers use to share their fashion inspiration with their audience.
Deg. for creatives : BFA
BFA stands for Bachelor of Fine Arts, which is a degree commonly pursued by creatives such as artists, designers, and performers.
Diet inspired by hunter-gatherers : PALEO
The answer "PALEO" is the right solution because the Paleo diet is inspired by the types of food presumed to have been eaten by early humans, consisting mainly of meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit.
Earnest request : PLEA
"Plea" is the right solution because an earnest request is a sincere and heartfelt appeal for something, which aligns with the definition of a plea as a serious and urgent request.
Enjoy the slopes : SKI
The word "ski" refers to a winter sport that involves sliding down snowy slopes, making it a fitting answer for the clue "enjoy the slopes."
Enjoy the slopes : SKI
The answer "SKI" fits the clue "Enjoy the slopes" because skiing is a popular winter sport that involves sliding down snowy slopes on skis.
Equinox mo. : SEP Down 1 Issa of “Insecure”
The word "Equinox" refers to the two days of the year when day and night are of equal length. The September Equinox occurs in the month of September, hence the abbreviation "SEPT" is the right solution.
Equinox mo. : SEP Down 1 Issa of “Insecure”
The answer "SEPT" is short for September, which is the month when the autumnal equinox occurs.
Equinox mo. : SEP Down 1 Issa of “Insecure”
unknown
Fix, as a sock : DARN
"DARN" is the right solution because it means to mend a hole in a sock by weaving threads across it. It fits the clue "Fix, as a sock" perfectly.
Focused while working : ON TASK
"ON TASK" is the right solution because it means being concentrated and dedicated to the work at hand, which fits the clue "Focused while working."
Former union members? : EXES
"EXES" is the right solution because the word "EXES" is a common abbreviation for "former partners" or "former spouses," making it a clever play on words for former union members in this crossword clue.
Free : UNCAGED
The answer "ON THE HOUSE" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to indicate that something is free, typically referring to complimentary items or services provided by a business or establishment.
Free : UNCAGED
The answer "NO-FEE" is a synonym for "free" in the context of not having to pay any fees.
Free : UNCAGED
"UNCAGED" is the right solution because it means "free" or released from a cage or confinement. It is a synonym for "free" in this context.
Game also known as table soccer : FOOSBALL
Foosball is a game that is also known as table soccer because it is played on a table and simulates the game of soccer with players attached to rods that are used to kick the ball.
Gentle touch : PAT
"Pat" is the right solution because it is a common term used to describe a gentle touch or light tap with the hand.
Geometric paper toys : FLEXAGONS
Flexagons are geometric paper toys that can be folded in different ways to reveal multiple faces or designs. The word "flexagons" specifically refers to these types of paper toys, making it the correct answer to the clue "Geometric paper toys."
GLAAD, for one : NGO
"NGO" stands for Non-Governmental Organization, and GLAAD is a prominent example of such an organization. They advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and work towards promoting equality and acceptance.
Gp. with Lions and Bears : NFL
The answer is "NFL" because it is a sports organization that includes teams like the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears.
Green shampoo brand : PRELL
"PRELL" is a green shampoo brand known for its distinctive green color and was popular in the 1970s and 1980s.
Gunk : GOO
The word "gunk" is often used to refer to a sticky, unpleasant substance. "Crud" is a synonym for "gunk," meaning a dirty or undesirable substance, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Gunk : GOO
"GOO" is a common term used to describe a sticky, viscous substance, often referred to as gunk. It fits the clue well and is a commonly used crossword answer for this type of clue.
Hong Kong currency : DOLLARS
The Hong Kong currency is the Hong Kong dollar, which is commonly referred to as "dollars" in everyday language.
Jazz legend James : ETTA
The answer to "Jazz legend James" is "ETTA" because Etta James was a renowned jazz singer, making her the correct choice for this clue.
Jazz legend James : ETTA
"Etta" is the correct answer because Etta James was a famous jazz legend known for her powerful voice and soulful music.
Keep the beat? : PATROL
"Keep the beat" in this context refers to keeping a rhythm or tempo, which is also a duty of a patrol officer, thus the answer "PATROL."
Last one to cross the finish line : LOSER
The answer "LOSER" fits the clue "Last one to cross the finish line" because a loser is typically someone who finishes last in a competition or race.
Lawn sign phrase : FOR RENT
The phrase "FOR RENT" is commonly seen on lawn signs to indicate that a property or space is available for rent. It is a succinct and clear way to convey this information to potential renters.
Lends a hand : AIDS
The word "helps" means to lend a hand or provide assistance. Therefore, it is the right solution for the clue "Lends a hand".
Lends a hand : AIDS
The answer "AIDS" is the right solution because it means to "lend a hand" or provide assistance to someone in need.
Lends a hand : AIDS
The answer "AIDS" for the clue "Lends a hand" is correct because "AIDS" can mean to provide help or support to someone in need.
Make a blunder : ERR
"ERR" is the right solution because it is a synonym for "make a blunder" in the context of making a mistake or error.
Many an Egyptian : ARAB
"ARAB" is the right solution because many people in Egypt are of Arab descent, making them Arabs.
Marketer’s introduction? : TELE-
The answer "TELE-" fits the clue "Marketer's introduction?" because it is a common prefix used in words related to communication, such as "telemarketing" or "telecommunication." It suggests a connection to reaching out or connecting with others, which aligns with the role of a marketer.
Nirvana genre : GRUNGE
"Grunge" is the right answer because Nirvana was a prominent band in the grunge music genre during the 1990s, along with other bands like Pearl Jam and Soundgarden.
Olympian Ohno : APOLO
The answer is "APOLO" because Apolo Ohno is an American short track speed skater who has won multiple Olympic medals.
Plant pest : MITE
Mites are tiny arachnids that are common plant pests, feeding on plant juices and causing damage to leaves and stems. Therefore, "MITE" is the correct answer for the clue "Plant pest."
Plays with 3-Down, e.g. : FOLDS
The answer "FOLDS" fits because when you play cards, like with a "3-Down" (which could be "deck" or "hand"), you may fold your hand instead of playing it.
Private online convos : DMS
The answer "DMS" stands for "Direct Messages," which are private online conversations typically found on social media platforms.
Pueblo material : ADOBE
"Adobe" is the right answer because adobe is a building material made from earth and organic materials, commonly used in Pueblo architecture.
Rolls up to the front door? : SODS
The answer "SODS" is the right solution because when someone rolls up a lawn, they are laying down sod, which are rolls of grass.
Sequenced sequence : GENOME
"Sequenced sequence" is a clever way of hinting at the word "GENOME," which refers to the complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism. The word "sequence" in the clue suggests a specific order or arrangement, which aligns with the concept of genetic sequencing in a genome.
Service provider based in Tehran : IRAN AIR
The answer "IRAN AIR" fits the clue because it is the national flag carrier airline of Iran, and it is based in Tehran, the capital city of Iran.
Shiny shell material : NACRE
"Nacre" is the shiny material found on the inner layer of some shells, like pearls. It is often used in jewelry making for its iridescent quality.
Short time out? : NAP
The clue "Short time out?" is a play on words. "Short time" suggests a brief period, which can be associated with a nap, as taking a nap is a short break or rest period. So, the answer "NAP" fits the clue.
Space : GAP
The answer to "Space" is "ROOM" because a room is a defined area within a building where people can live, work, or perform activities. It is a commonly used word to describe a specific area of space within a larger structure.
Space : GAP
The word "gap" can refer to a space or opening between two things, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Space."
Spanish article : UNA
In Spanish, "una" is the feminine singular form of the indefinite article "a" or "an" in English. Therefore, "una" is the correct answer to the clue "Spanish article".
Spanish article : UNA
"Spanish article" is a clue indicating that we are looking for a word in Spanish that functions as an article. In Spanish, "una" is the feminine singular form of the indefinite article "a" or "an."
Speckled horse : ROAN
"Roan" is the right answer because it is a term used to describe a horse with a coat color that includes a mixture of white hairs with another color, creating a speckled or mottled appearance.
Starters : A-TEAM
The answer "A-TEAM" refers to a group of people who are highly skilled and work together effectively, similar to a team of starters in a sports game.
Style alternative to MLA : APA
APA is the abbreviation for the American Psychological Association, which is a commonly used citation style in academic writing, often used in the social sciences. MLA, on the other hand, stands for Modern Language Association, which is another citation style commonly used in the humanities. Therefore, "APA" is the correct answer as it is an alternative to MLA in terms of citation styles.
Thomas of the WNBA or Thompson of the NWSL : ALYSSA
The answer is "ALYSSA" because both Thomas of the WNBA and Thompson of the NWSL share the first name "Alyssa".
TikTok mashup, e.g. : EDIT
The answer "EDIT" is the right solution because on TikTok, users often create mashup videos by editing together different clips or songs.
Titans : GIANTS
The answer "GIANTS" fits the clue "Titans" because both refer to powerful and legendary figures in mythology known for their immense size and strength.
Toxic plant in the carrot family : HEMLOCK
HEMLOCK is a toxic plant in the carrot family known for its poisonous properties, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Track unit : LAP
The answer "LAP" is the right solution for the clue "Track unit" because a lap is a unit of measurement commonly used in racing to denote one complete circuit around a track.
Transportation for those who are plugged in? : ELECTRIC CAR
The clue "Transportation for those who are plugged in?" is a play on words, suggesting a mode of transportation that is powered by electricity and requires being "plugged in" to charge, which is an electric car.
Tune that can soothe an aching heart, and a feature of rows 3, 5, 8, and 11 in this puzzle : BREAKUP SONG
The answer "BREAKUP SONG" fits the clue because it is a tune that can soothe an aching heart after a breakup, and it also describes the theme of the puzzle with the words "BREAKUP" and "SONG" appearing in rows 3, 5, 8, and 11.
Untrusting : LEERY
"Untrusting" is a synonym for "leery," which means cautious or wary. It fits the clue well because someone who is untrusting would likely be cautious or wary in their interactions.
Volleyball official : REF
The answer "REF" is short for referee, which is the official who oversees a volleyball match and enforces the rules.
Woodwind commonly made of grenadilla wood : OBOE
The oboe is a woodwind instrument commonly made of grenadilla wood, making "OBOE" the correct answer to the clue.
[I’m mad!] : [GRR!]
The answer "GRR!" is often used to represent anger or frustration, making it a fitting response to the clue "[I’m mad!]".
__ out a living : EKES
"Just get by" means to barely make enough money to survive. This phrase is commonly used to describe someone who is struggling financially and is only able to meet their basic needs.
__ out a living : EKES
The phrase "__ out a living" means to barely manage or make a meager income. The word "ekes" fits this clue because it means to obtain or achieve something with difficulty or by making a small amount of something last. So, "ekes" accurately represents the idea of barely making a living.
__ out a living : EKES
The phrase "__ out a living" means to barely manage to make a living. The word "eked" fits perfectly as it means to make something last or stretch, which aligns with the idea of barely managing to make a living.
__ out a living : EKES
"EKE out a living" is a common phrase meaning to barely manage to make a living. The word "EKE" means to make a living or support oneself with difficulty or by laborious effort, making it the correct answer to the clue.
__ out a living : EKES
The phrase "eke out a living" means to barely manage to make a living or survive with great difficulty. The word "EKES" is a verb that means to make a living or support oneself with difficulty, which fits the clue.
“Beg pardon” : AHEM
The answer "AHEM" is the right solution for the clue "Beg pardon" because "ahem" is a common interjection used to politely get someone's attention or to apologize for a mistake.
“Beg pardon” : AHEM
The answer "AHEM" fits the clue "Beg pardon" because "ahem" is a sound often used to politely get someone's attention or indicate a desire to speak.
“Gee … ” : SAY …
The phrase "Gee" is often followed by "SAY" to express surprise or emphasis, making "SAY" a fitting answer.
“It’s __ good” : ALL
The phrase "It's all good" is a common expression meaning everything is okay or fine. In this context, the word "all" fits perfectly in the blank.
“My bad!” : OOPSY!
The phrase "My bad!" is an informal way of apologizing for a mistake. "Oops!" is a similar informal expression used to acknowledge a mistake or accident. Therefore, "Oops!" is the right solution for the crossword clue "My bad!"
“My bad!” : OOPSY!
The phrase "My bad" is an informal way of apologizing or taking responsibility for a mistake. "Sorry" is a common synonym for expressing regret or offering an apology, making it the right solution for the crossword clue.
“My bad!” : OOPSY!
The phrase "My bad!" is an informal way of admitting a mistake or taking responsibility for something. "OOPS!" is a common expression used to acknowledge a mistake or accident, making it a fitting answer for this clue.
“My bad!” : OOPSY!
The answer "OOPSY!" is a playful and informal way to acknowledge a mistake or error, similar to saying "My bad!" It fits the clue well and is commonly used in casual conversation.
“My bad!” : OOPSY!
The answer "OOPS, SORRY!" fits the clue "My bad!" because it is a common expression used to acknowledge a mistake or error. It conveys a sense of regret or apology for something that was done wrong.
“Score!” : IT’S IN!
The phrase "Score!" is often used to express excitement or success, and "IT'S IN!" can be a similar exclamation used when something is successful or accomplished, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
“Take it elsewhere, lovebirds!” : GET A ROOM!
The answer "GET A ROOM!" fits the clue "Take it elsewhere, lovebirds!" because it is a common phrase used to suggest that a couple should find a private place to be romantic instead of displaying affection in public.
“The Light We Carry” writer Michelle : OBAMA
Michelle Obama wrote the book "The Light We Carry," making "OBAMA" the correct answer to the clue.