Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 21 January 2024, Sunday (01-21-24). 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.
1956 Elvis hit whose title sounds like a command : LOVE ME
The answer "LOVE ME" is the right solution because the clue suggests that the title of the hit song sounds like a command. In this case, "LOVE ME" can be interpreted as a command to someone, making it a fitting answer.
1972 Bill Withers hit whose title sounds like a command : USE ME
The answer "USE ME" is the right solution because the clue is asking for a 1972 Bill Withers hit whose title sounds like a command. The phrase "USE ME" can be interpreted as a command, and it is also the title of a popular song by Bill Withers released in 1972.
Absolute minimum required : BARE ESSENTIALS
The phrase "BARE ESSENTIALS" refers to the absolute minimum things or items that are necessary. It perfectly fits the clue "Absolute minimum required" as it implies the essential elements needed without any extras.
Aid in getting a leg up? : OTTOMAN
The answer "OTTOMAN" is the right solution because an ottoman is a piece of furniture that can be used as a footstool, providing support and aiding in getting a leg up.
Apt rhyme of “nude” and “crude” : LEWD
The answer is "LEWD" because it is an apt rhyme for the words "nude" and "crude". The word "lewd" shares a similar sound and rhymes with both "nude" and "crude".
Ardennes assent : OUI
The Ardennes is a region in Europe, and "assent" refers to agreeing or saying "yes." In French, "yes" is "OUI." Therefore, "OUI" is the right answer because it represents agreeing in the Ardennes region.
Bacchanalian beast : SATYR
The answer "SATYR" is the right solution because a satyr is a mythical creature from Greek mythology known for its wild and drunken behavior, making it fitting for the clue "Bacchanalian beast."
Backdrop : LOCALE
The word "backdrop" refers to the scenery or setting behind the main action. "Locale" is the right answer because it means a particular place or setting, which can serve as a backdrop for various activities or events.
Basketball stats category : ASSISTS
The answer "ASSISTS" is the right solution because it refers to a category in basketball statistics that tracks the number of times a player passes the ball to a teammate resulting in a made basket.
Begin to flower : BUD
The answer "BUD" is the right solution because when a plant begins to flower, it first forms a small, undeveloped bud.
Behind : TUSHIE
Betray one’s standards : STOOP
The answer "STOOP" is the right solution because it means to lower or compromise one's standards or principles. It accurately captures the idea of betraying one's own values.
Betrays : FLIPS ON
The answer "FLIPS ON" is the right solution to the clue "Betrays" because it means to turn against or betray someone.
Big name in jeans : STRAUSS
The answer "STRAUSS" is the right solution because Levi Strauss is a big name in the jeans industry. He was the founder of the famous Levi's brand, which is known worldwide for its denim jeans.
Bit of carefree fun : LARK
The word "lark" is often used to describe an activity or adventure done for enjoyment or amusement, without any particular purpose or seriousness. It fits the clue "Bit of carefree fun" perfectly as it signifies a playful and lighthearted experience.
Bits of troubleshooting : TESTS
The answer "TESTS" is the right solution because troubleshooting often involves performing various tests to identify and solve problems.
Bolting Bolt : USAIN
The answer "USAIN" is the right solution because Usain Bolt is a famous Jamaican sprinter known for his incredible speed. The clue "Bolting Bolt" suggests someone who bolts or runs quickly, making "USAIN" the fitting answer.
Bourne’s employer in “The Bourne Identity,” in brief : CIA
The answer is "CIA" because in "The Bourne Identity," Jason Bourne works for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
Bow (to) : ACCEDE
The word "ACCEDE" means to agree or yield to a request or demand. When someone bows, they are typically showing respect or submission, which aligns with the idea of agreeing or yielding. Therefore, "ACCEDE" is the right answer for "Bow (to)" in the crossword.
Break, as a window : SMASH IN
The answer "SMASH IN" fits the clue "Break, as a window" because it accurately describes the action of forcefully breaking a window by applying sudden and strong force.
Bridge component : BID
The answer "BID" is the right solution for the clue "Bridge component" because in the game of bridge, a "bid" refers to a player's declaration of the number of tricks they believe they can win with a specific suit as the trump suit.
Broski : HOMIE
The answer to "Broski" is "HOMIE" because "HOMIE" is a slang term used to refer to a close friend or buddy, which is synonymous with "Broski."
Call of a raven : CAW
The answer to "Call of a raven" is "CAW" because "CAW" is the onomatopoeic sound that represents the sound a raven makes.
Catchy song, in slang : BOP
The word "bop" is slang for a catchy song or a lively, rhythmic tune. It is commonly used to describe a song that is easy to dance or groove to. Therefore, "bop" is the right solution for the clue "catchy song, in slang."
Centerfold, say : PINUP
The answer to "Centerfold, say" is "PINUP" because a centerfold is typically a full-page photograph or illustration that appears in the center of a magazine, often featuring a glamorous or attractive person. A pinup refers to a similarly glamorous or attractive person, often depicted in a provocative or alluring manner. Therefore, "PINUP" fits the clue perfectly.
Common resolutions : DIETS
The answer "DIETS" is the right solution because it is a common resolution that many people make at the start of a new year to improve their health and lose weight.
Corrupting influence : BAD SEED
The phrase "bad seed" is commonly used to describe a person who has a corrupting influence. It implies that someone is inherently flawed or has negative qualities that can negatively impact others. Therefore, "bad seed" is the right answer for the clue "corrupting influence."
Counterpart of science, they say : ART
The clue suggests that there is a counterpart to science, and the answer is "ART." Science is often associated with logic, reason, and facts, while art is more subjective, creative, and expressive. Therefore, "ART" is the opposite or counterpart of science.
Counterpart of “thx” : PLS
The answer to "Counterpart of 'thx'" is "PLS" because "PLS" is an abbreviation for "please," which is the opposite of "thanks" or "thx."
Creature that swallows its prey whole : BOA
The answer "BOA" is the right solution because boas are large snakes that have the ability to swallow their prey whole. They are known for their powerful jaws and flexible bodies, allowing them to consume animals much larger than their own head.
Cub or colt : ROOKIE
The answer "ROOKIE" is the right solution because both "cub" and "colt" are terms commonly used to refer to a young or inexperienced individual, particularly in sports. A rookie is someone who is new or inexperienced in a particular activity or profession, making it a fitting answer for this clue.
CVS competitor : RITE AID
The answer to "CVS competitor" is "RITE AID" because Rite Aid is a well-known pharmacy chain that competes with CVS in the same industry.
Daughter of Muhammad : FATIMA
The answer to "Daughter of Muhammad" is "Fatima" because Fatima was the name of one of the daughters of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
Desert bordering Sinai : NEGEV
The Negev is the desert that borders Sinai.
Disney theme park : EPCOT
The answer to "Disney theme park" is "EPCOT" because EPCOT stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, which is one of the four main theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
Eradicates starting from the bottom : UPROOTS
The word "eradicates" suggests removing or getting rid of something completely. "Starting from the bottom" indicates that we need to begin from the lower part. The word "UPROOTS" fits perfectly as it means to remove or pull out by the roots, which aligns with the clue.
Exclamation before an ill-advised action, maybe : YOLO
The answer "YOLO" is the right solution because it stands for "You Only Live Once," which is often exclaimed before someone takes a risky or ill-advised action, emphasizing the importance of living life to the fullest.
Extract : GLEAN
The word "glean" means to extract or gather information or knowledge from various sources. In the context of the clue "Extract," "glean" is the right solution because it perfectly matches the definition of extracting something, whether it be information, knowledge, or resources.
Follow closely : HEW TO
The answer "HEW TO" is the right solution because it means to adhere closely or strictly to something, like following closely along a path or guideline.
Football receiver : WIDEOUT
The answer to "Football receiver" is "WIDEOUT" because a wideout is a term commonly used in American football to refer to a wide receiver, who is a player positioned on the outer edges of the offensive formation.
Freight, e.g. : GOODS
The answer to "Freight, e.g." is "GOODS" because freight refers to the transportation of goods or cargo.
Full ___ : MONTY
The answer to "Full ___" is "MONTY" because it completes the phrase "Full Monty," which is a colloquial term meaning to do something to the fullest extent or without holding back.
Game night cry : UNO!
The answer "UNO!" is the right solution because it is a common exclamation during game nights when a player has only one card left in the card game UNO.
Go back down : EBB
The answer "EBB" is the right solution because "ebb" means to recede or go back down, specifically referring to the tide going out.
Go back over : REREAD
The answer "REREAD" is the right solution because it means to read something again, which aligns with the clue "Go back over."
Goes first : STARTS
The word "STARTS" fits the clue "Goes first" because when something starts, it initiates or takes the first action.
Hammer wielder of myth : THOR
The answer is "THOR" because in Norse mythology, Thor is known as the hammer wielder. He is often depicted with his mighty hammer, Mjolnir, which he uses to protect the gods and humans from various threats.
Harry Potter’s mother : LILY
The answer to "Harry Potter's mother" is "LILY" because Lily Potter is the name of Harry Potter's mother in the Harry Potter series.
Health class subj. : STD
The answer to "Health class subj." is "STD" because STD stands for Sexually Transmitted Disease, which is a common topic covered in health classes.
Heaven on earth : UTOPIA
The answer "EDEN" is the right solution because it is commonly referred to as a paradise or a heavenly place, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Heaven on earth."
Hubbub : TO-DO
The word "ado" means a state of excitement or confusion, which can be synonymous with the word "hubbub".
Identity theft, for one : FRAUD
The answer "FRAUD" is the right solution because identity theft involves deceptive and dishonest actions, which are characteristic of fraudulent behavior.
In conflict : AT WAR
The answer "AT WAR" fits the clue "In conflict" because it refers to a state of being engaged in armed conflict or battling against someone or something.
J. M. Barrie, for one : SCOT
The answer "SCOT" is the right solution because J. M. Barrie was a Scottish author, and "SCOT" is a term commonly used to refer to someone from Scotland.
Knot again! : RETIE!
The answer "RETIE" is the right solution because it is a word that means to tie a knot again.
Lead-in to zone : EURO-
The answer "EURO-" is the right solution because it is a common prefix that is often used as a lead-in to indicate something related to Europe.
Library section : TEEN
The term "stacks" refers to the shelves or bookcases in a library where books are stored. Therefore, "stacks" is the correct answer for the clue "library section."
Like kale vis-à-vis lettuce : HARDIER
The answer "HARDIER" is the right solution because kale is generally more resilient and able to withstand harsh conditions compared to lettuce. It is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in various climates.
Listlessness : TORPOR
The answer "TORPOR" is the right solution for the clue "Listlessness" because torpor refers to a state of physical or mental inactivity, lack of energy, or sluggishness, which aligns perfectly with the concept of listlessness.
Make the first bet : OPEN
The answer "OPEN" fits the clue "Make the first bet" because in betting or gambling, the term "open" is often used to refer to the initial action of placing a wager.
Man cave, maybe : SANCTUM
The term "man cave" refers to a space typically designated for a man's personal retreat or sanctuary. The word "sanctum" means a sacred or private place, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Medal-earning mettle : VALOR
The word "mettle" refers to a person's courage or determination. When it comes to earning medals, it requires a great deal of valor or bravery. Therefore, "VALOR" is the right answer for "Medal-earning mettle."
Messy room : STY
The answer to "Messy room" is "STY" because a sty is a place where pigs live, and a messy room can be compared to a pigsty.
Moose’s mating season : RUT
The answer "RUT" is the right solution because it refers to the mating season of moose. During this time, male moose are more active and aggressive as they compete for mates. The term "rut" specifically describes this period of heightened sexual activity in moose and other ungulates.
Neckwear provided at some restaurants : BIB
The answer "BIB" is the right solution because it is a type of neckwear that is commonly provided at some restaurants, especially those that serve messy or saucy foods like lobsters or barbecue. It helps protect the clothing from getting stained or dirty while eating.
New Year’s Day : ONE/ONE
The answer "ONE/ONE" is the right solution for the clue "New Year's Day" because it represents the date of January 1st, which is the first day of the new year. The word "ONE" is used twice to signify the repetition of the number 1 in the date.
One-dish meal : CHILI
The answer to "One-dish meal" is "CHILI" because chili is a type of hearty stew that typically contains meat, beans, and spices. It is a complete meal in itself, often enjoyed on its own or with toppings such as cheese, sour cream, or cornbread.
Opposite of relief, in printmaking : INTAGLIO
The answer "INTAGLIO" is the right solution because in printmaking, relief refers to a technique where ink is applied to the raised surface of a printing block. Intaglio, on the other hand, is the opposite technique where ink is applied to the recessed areas of the printing plate. Therefore, "INTAGLIO" is the opposite of relief in printmaking.
Over time period? : EON Down 1 “Leave me alone!”
The answer to "Over time period?" is "EON" because an eon is a long period of time, making it a suitable answer for the clue.
Passages : CORRIDORS
The word "corridors" is the right answer because it refers to enclosed passages or hallways within a building or structure. It fits the clue "passages" as it accurately describes a type of passage that people commonly use to move from one place to another.
Perfect in every way : SPOT-ON
The term "spot-on" means precisely accurate or correct. When something is described as "perfect in every way," it implies that it is flawlessly accurate or correct, making "SPOT-ON" the suitable answer.
Pick up on : DETECT
The answer "DETECT" is the right solution because it means to perceive or notice something, which aligns with the clue "Pick up on."
Pikes Peak people : UTE
The answer is "UTE" because the Ute tribe is native to the Pikes Peak region in Colorado.
Pizazz : ELAN
The word "elan" means enthusiasm or style, which is synonymous with "pizazz". Therefore, "elan" is the right solution for the crossword clue "pizazz".
Place of prayer : PEW
The answer "PEW" is the right solution because it refers to a long bench in a church where people sit during prayer services.
Poetic preposition : ERE
The answer to "Poetic preposition" is "ERE" because it is a poetic and archaic way of saying "before" or "prior to."
Pop singer with noted bangs (and bangers!) : SIA
The answer is "SIA" because Sia is a pop singer known for her distinctive bangs hairstyle. Additionally, "bangers" is a term commonly used to refer to hit songs, and Sia is known for her chart-topping hits.
Popular indoor tree : FICUS
The answer to "Popular indoor tree" is "FICUS" because the Ficus is a commonly grown indoor tree due to its ability to thrive in indoor environments.
Portmanteau pastry : CRONUT
The answer "CRONUT" is the right solution because it is a portmanteau word combining "croissant" and "donut." It accurately describes a pastry that is a hybrid of these two popular treats.
Proverbial hard workers : ANTS
The answer "ANTS" is the right solution because ants are often associated with being hard workers in many proverbs and sayings. They are known for their diligence and industrious nature, making them a fitting answer to the clue.
Purchase printout : Abbr.
The answer to "Purchase printout" is "Abbr." because "Abbr." is short for abbreviation, which is a shortened form of a word or phrase. In this context, it suggests that the printout is a shortened or abbreviated version of a purchase document.
Quintessential : ICONIC
The word "iconic" means representing or symbolizing something in a highly recognized or significant way. It perfectly captures the essence of being quintessential, making it the right solution for the crossword clue.
Ref. work that began as a Philological Society project : OED
The answer is "OED" because the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is a reference work that started as a project by the Philological Society.
Regarding : AS FOR
"Regarding" can be defined as "with respect to" or "in regard to". "As to" is a phrase that means the same thing and can be abbreviated as "ASTO", which is the crossword answer.
Sat ___ (GPS system) : NAV
The answer to "Sat ___ (GPS system)" is "NAV" because "NAV" is a common abbreviation for "navigation," which is a system used in GPS devices to determine and display location information.
Section of the nosebleed seats : LAST ROW
The last row of seats in a venue is typically located high up, often referred to as the "nosebleed seats" because of the distance from the stage or playing field. Therefore, "LAST ROW" is the correct answer to the clue.
Send off : EMIT
"Send off" can mean to emit or give off, and "exude" means to emit or give off (a liquid, smell, etc.) gradually. Therefore, "exude" fits the definition of "send off" and is the correct solution.
Sensitivity : TACT
The answer "TACT" is the right solution for the clue "Sensitivity" because tact refers to the ability to be sensitive and considerate in dealing with others.
Share a side : ABUT
The word "abut" means to share a common boundary or side with something else. In this crossword clue, "share a side" is a hint that suggests the answer is "ABUT".
Singer’s asset : RANGE
The answer "RANGE" is the right solution because a singer's asset refers to their vocal range, which is the range of notes they can comfortably sing.
Sloan or Wharton : BUSINESS SCHOOL
The clue "Sloan or Wharton" is referring to prestigious business schools. The answer "BUSINESS SCHOOL" fits because both Sloan and Wharton are well-known business schools, so the answer is a general term that encompasses both options.
Slump : SAG
The answer to "Slump" is "SAG" because when something slumps, it tends to droop or sink down, which is similar to the meaning of the word "sag."
Snow day project : FORT
The answer to "Snow day project" is "FORT" because building a fort is a common activity that people often do on snow days.
Some music collectibles, for short : LPS
The answer "LPS" is the right solution because "LPS" is an abbreviation for "long-playing records," which are a type of music collectible.
Soul : PERSON
The answer "PERSON" fits the clue "Soul" because a person is a living being with a soul.
Spam holders : TINS
The answer "TINS" is the right solution because spam is often packaged and stored in metal tins.
Squat, so to speak : SIT
The answer to "Squat, so to speak" is "SIT" because when we squat down, we are essentially lowering ourselves to a sitting position.
State lines? : ACT
The answer to "State lines?" is "ACT" because "ACT" can be a shortened form of "act out," which means to perform on stage. In this context, "state lines" refers to the lines or dialogue spoken by actors in a play or performance.
Swiss cheese : GRUYERE
The answer to "Swiss cheese" is "GRUYERE" because Gruyere is a type of cheese that originated in Switzerland and is known for its distinctive flavor and holey texture.
Talking horse of ’60s TV : MR ED
The answer "MR ED" is the right solution because it refers to a popular TV show from the 1960s featuring a talking horse named Mr. Ed.
The 380-foot-tall Hyperion, for one : REDWOOD
The 380-foot-tall Hyperion is a famous example of a tree, and specifically, a redwood tree. Therefore, the answer "REDWOOD" fits the clue.
The missus : WIFEY
The answer "WIFEY" is a colloquial term for "wife" and is commonly used to refer to one's spouse.
There are 768 of these in a gallon : TEASPOONS
The answer "teaspoons" is the right solution because there are approximately 768 teaspoons in a gallon. This is a common conversion used in cooking and baking.
Thing to catch in a city : CAB
The answer "CAB" is the right solution because in a city, one commonly catches a taxi or cab to get around.
Thunderstruck : AWED
The word "awed" means to be filled with a sense of wonder or amazement. When someone is thunderstruck, they are often left in awe due to a sudden and unexpected event. Therefore, "awed" is the right answer to the clue "Thunderstruck."
Tiniest bit : IOTA
The word "least" is the right solution because it means the smallest or tiniest amount. It fits perfectly with the clue "tiniest bit."
Tobiko or masago : ROE
The answer to "Tobiko or masago" is "ROE" because both tobiko and masago are types of fish eggs, which are commonly referred to as roe in culinary terms.
Total revolution? : YEAR
The answer to "Total revolution?" is "YEAR" because a year is a complete rotation of the Earth around the sun, which can be considered a revolution.
Traditional makers of anoraks : INUIT
The answer "INUIT" is the right solution because the Inuit people are traditionally known for making anoraks, which are hooded jackets made from animal skins.
Trendy treat of Brazilian origin : ACAI BOWL
The answer "ACAI BOWL" is the right solution because the clue mentions a trendy treat of Brazilian origin. "Acai" is a popular fruit from Brazil, and it is commonly used as a base for a healthy and delicious bowl dish. Therefore, "ACAI BOWL" fits perfectly with the clue.
Turn (off) : SHUT
"Turn off" is a phrasal verb that means to cause someone to feel repelled or disgusted. "Repel" means to cause someone to feel disgust or aversion towards something, making it the right answer for the given clue.
Uncles, in Uruguay : TIOS
The answer "TIOS" is the right solution because "TIOS" is the Spanish word for "uncles," and Uruguay is a Spanish-speaking country.
Union contract? : I DO
The answer "I DO" is the right solution because in a union contract, two parties agree to be legally bound together, just like in a marriage when two people say "I DO" to signify their agreement to be united.
Universal donor’s designation, informally : O-NEG
The answer "O-NEG" is the right solution because it is the informal designation for the universal donor blood type. "O" refers to the blood type, and "NEG" indicates the Rh factor, which means the blood type is negative.
What Ralph represents in a Freudian analysis of “Lord of the Flies” : EGO
The term "ego" in Freudian analysis refers to the rational and conscious part of the mind that mediates between the desires of the id and the constraints of reality. In "Lord of the Flies," Ralph represents the ego because he tries to maintain order and rationality on the island, balancing the primal instincts of the other boys.
Whiz : ACE
"Whiz" is a slang term for someone who is skilled or expert in a particular activity. "Pro" is a short form of "professional," which means someone who is paid to do a particular activity and is typically skilled or expert in that activity. Therefore, "Pro" is an appropriate answer for the clue "Whiz."
Wrote, as a bad check : KITED
The answer "KITED" fits the clue because when someone writes a bad check, they are essentially "kiting" or fraudulently using funds that are not available in their bank account.
Yankees manager Aaron : BOONE
The answer "BOONE" fits the clue "Yankees manager Aaron" because Aaron Boone is a former baseball player who currently serves as the manager for the New York Yankees.
Yiddish word meaning “woe” : TSURIS
The Yiddish word "tsuris" is commonly used to mean "woe" or "trouble" in English. It is a well-known term in Yiddish language and culture, making it the correct answer for the crossword clue.
Zac of “Baywatch” : EFRON
The answer is "EFRON" because Zac Efron is an actor who played the character of Zac in the TV series "Baywatch".
___ Butts, inventor of Scrabble : ALFRED
The answer is "ALFRED" because Alfred Butts is the inventor of the popular word game Scrabble.
___ second : ANY
The answer to "___ second" is "ANY" because it fits the clue and is a common phrase. In this context, "any second" means something is about to happen soon or is imminent.
___ wonder : BOY
The answer to "___ wonder" is "BOY" because it completes the phrase "boy wonder," which is a term used to describe a young person who is exceptionally talented or successful.
“Allegory of the cave” philosopher : PLATO
The answer is "PLATO" because he is the philosopher who wrote about the "Allegory of the cave" in his famous work, "The Republic."
“Enjoyed” some humble pie : ATE CROW
The phrase "eating crow" is a common idiom that means admitting a mistake or accepting humiliation. In this crossword clue, "Enjoyed" suggests that someone had to accept their mistake or swallow their pride, which aligns with the idea of eating crow. Therefore, the answer "ATE CROW" fits the clue.
“Finally, I decided to buy a grocery store on an intersection, but a rival had …” : … CORNERED THE MARKET
The phrase "cornered the market" means to gain control or dominate a particular industry or market. In the given clue, the mention of buying a grocery store on an intersection suggests a business decision. The word "rival" indicates competition. Therefore, the answer "cornered the market" fits perfectly as it describes the act of gaining control over the grocery store industry at that specific location.
“First, I founded an aerospace start-up, but I never …” : … GOT IT OFF THE GROUND
The phrase "got it off the ground" is a common idiom that means to successfully start or launch something, which fits with the clue referencing an aerospace start-up.
“Holy ___!” : TOLEDO
In the phrase "Holy See," "See" refers to the jurisdiction or authority of the Bishop of Rome, also known as the Pope.
“I decided to try operating an airport, but just before launch we …” : … RAN OUT OF RUNWAY
The phrase "ran out of runway" is a common expression used to describe a situation where someone or something runs out of space, time, or resources to complete a task or plan. In the context of the clue, it suggests that the person attempting to operate an airport did not have enough runway space for the planes to take off or land, leading to the failure of their endeavor.
“Next, I pivoted into breakfast restaurants, but competitors …” : … POACHED OUR EMPLOYEES
The answer "POACHED OUR EMPLOYEES" fits the clue because it suggests that competitors of the speaker's breakfast restaurants have hired away their employees. The word "poached" implies that the employees were enticed or stolen by the competitors.
“We’ll see” : I MAY
The answer "I MAY" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to indicate uncertainty or a possibility of something happening in the future.
“Whatcha gonna do about it?” : YEAH, SO?
The phrase "YEAH, SO?" is a dismissive response to the question "Whatcha gonna do about it?" It implies a nonchalant attitude and suggests that the speaker is not concerned or bothered by the situation.
“When I tried candlemaking, all my workers …” : … SUFFERED FROM BURNOUT
The phrase "suffered from burnout" is a common expression used to describe feeling exhausted or overwhelmed due to excessive work or stress. In the context of the clue, it humorously suggests that the workers in the candlemaking endeavor experienced burnout due to the nature of the task involving fire and heat.
“When that fell through, I tried my hand at fishmongering, but we …” : … DIDN’T SCALE WELL
The phrase "didn't scale well" is a play on words. In the context of the clue, "scale" refers to the act of removing the scales from fish. However, it is also a phrase commonly used in business or technology to describe a situation where a plan or idea does not work effectively when applied to a larger or different scale. Therefore, "didn't scale well" is a clever answer that fits both the fishmongering context and the broader meaning of the phrase.
“Wise” one : OWL
The answer to "Wise" one is "OWL" because owls are commonly associated with wisdom in many cultures and are often depicted as wise creatures in literature and folklore.
“You’re playing with fire!” : WATCH IT!
The phrase "You're playing with fire!" is an expression used to warn someone that they are taking a dangerous or risky action. The answer "WATCH IT!" is a fitting solution as it is a concise way of urging someone to be cautious and pay attention to the potential consequences of their actions.