Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 30 January 2024, Tuesday (01-30-24). 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.
Bodies of advisory experts … or, when reinterpreted as an imperative, a hint to 17-, 24-, 38- and 52- : THINK TANKS … or THINK “TANKS”
The answer "THINK TANKS ... or THINK 'TANKS'" is the right solution because it is a play on words. The clue suggests that the answer can be interpreted as "Bodies of advisory experts" or as an imperative phrase "THINK 'TANKS'." This play on words adds a clever twist to the crossword puzzle.
Bourbon order specification : NEAT
The term "neat" in the context of bourbon refers to serving it without any additional mixers or ice. It means the bourbon is enjoyed in its purest form, straight from the bottle. Therefore, "NEAT" is the correct answer to the clue "Bourbon order specification."
Citrus peel scrapings : ZESTS
The word "zests" is the right solution because it refers to the scrapings or shavings of the outer colorful part of citrus fruits, such as lemons or oranges. These scrapings are commonly used to add flavor and aroma to dishes and beverages.
Cry after being shocked : YOW!
The answer "YOW!" is the right solution because it represents a cry of pain or surprise, which is a natural reaction when someone is shocked.
Disapproving tongue clicks : TSKS
The answer "TSKS" is the right solution because it represents the sound of disapproving tongue clicks.
Div. in the N.H.L.’s Eastern Conference : ATL
The answer "ATL" stands for Atlanta, which is a division in the N.H.L.'s Eastern Conference.
Doolittle of “My Fair Lady” : ELIZA
The answer is "ELIZA" because Eliza Doolittle is the name of the main character in the musical "My Fair Lady."
E.U. distance units : KMS
The answer "KMS" stands for "kilometers" which is a commonly used unit of distance in the European Union (E.U.). It is an abbreviation for kilometers and fits the clue perfectly.
Fitzgerald with nine recordings in the Grammy Hall of Fame : ELLA
The answer is "ELLA" because Ella Fitzgerald is a renowned jazz singer who has been honored with nine recordings in the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Four duos : OCTET
The word "OCTET" refers to a group or set of eight, which aligns with the clue "Four duos." Since a duo is a pair or two, four duos would amount to a total of eight, making "OCTET" the correct answer.
Frat dudes : BROS
The term "BROS" is commonly used to refer to fraternity members or frat dudes. It is a colloquial term for brothers, which is often used to describe close friends or male companions.
From : AS OF
The answer "AS OF" fits the clue "From" because it indicates a starting point or a specific time or date. It is commonly used to introduce a reference point or to indicate when something begins.
Galactic time spans : EONS
The word "eons" refers to long periods of time, particularly in a cosmic or galactic context. It is commonly used to describe vast time spans in the universe, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Galactic time spans."
Garment that may have spaghetti straps : SLEEVELESS TOP
The answer "SLEEVELESS TOP" is the right solution because it describes a garment that does not have sleeves and is typically held up by spaghetti straps.
Gobble : EAT
The word "gobble" is often used to describe the action of eating quickly and greedily. Therefore, the answer "EAT" fits perfectly as it means to consume food.
Gradually withdraw (from) : WEAN
The word "wean" means to gradually withdraw or detach from something, often used when referring to a baby transitioning from breastfeeding to solid food. In this crossword clue, "gradually withdraw (from)" is a hint that suggests the answer "wean" as it fits the definition.
Gumbo or goulash : STEW
The answer to "Gumbo or goulash" is "STEW" because both gumbo and goulash are types of dishes that are typically made by stewing ingredients together.
Gushes : SPEWS
The word "gushes" implies a sudden and forceful outpouring. The word "spews" also conveys a similar meaning of forcefully ejecting or emitting something. Therefore, "spews" is the right answer to the clue "gushes".
High-flying metaphor for independence : LONE EAGLE
The term "LONE EAGLE" is a metaphor that refers to someone who is independent and self-reliant, just like an eagle soaring high in the sky. This makes it the perfect answer for the clue "High-flying metaphor for independence."
Hindu god of destruction : SHIVA
The Hindu god of destruction is commonly known as Shiva. Shiva is one of the principal deities in Hinduism and is associated with destruction, transformation, and renewal. Therefore, "SHIVA" is the correct answer to the clue.
Is sound in principle : HOLDS WATER
The phrase "holds water" is an idiomatic expression that means something is logical, reasonable, or sound in principle. It suggests that an idea or argument is able to withstand scrutiny and is valid. In the context of the crossword clue, "is sound in principle," the answer "holds water" perfectly captures the intended meaning.
Layer of 61- : HEN
The answer to "Layer of 61-" is "HEN" because a hen is a female chicken that lays eggs, and the number 61 is often associated with the atomic number of the element promethium, which has the symbol "Pm." Therefore, when we combine "Hen" and "Pm," we get "Hen Pm," which sounds like "Hemp," a layer that is often used in crossword puzzles.
Lead-in to pod : PEA …
The answer to "Lead-in to pod" is "PEA" because "PEA" is a common vegetable that can be found in a pod.
Lessen : ABATE
The word "abate" means to become less intense or to decrease in amount or intensity. Therefore, it is the right solution for the clue "Lessen."
Make sense, with “up” : ADD …
The phrase "make sense" can be synonymous with "add up." So, the answer "ADD" fits perfectly with the clue.
Manga genre involving giant robots : MECHA
The answer is "MECHA" because it refers to a genre of manga that focuses on giant robots.
Not for : ANTI
The answer to "Not for" is "ANTI" because "anti" is a prefix that means against or opposed to something. In this context, it indicates being opposed to or against something.
Not musically dissonant, say : TONAL
The word "tonal" refers to something that is harmonious or musically pleasing. In this crossword clue, "not musically dissonant" is a hint that we are looking for a word that describes harmonious music. Therefore, "tonal" is the right answer.
On the up and up : LEGIT
The phrase "on the up and up" means something that is honest, legitimate, or above board. "Kosher" is a term commonly used to describe food that is prepared according to Jewish dietary laws, which emphasizes cleanliness, purity, and honesty. Therefore, "kosher" fits the clue as it signifies something that is honest and legitimate.
Packing heat : ARMED
The answer "ARMED" fits the clue "Packing heat" because "packing heat" is a colloquial phrase that means carrying a weapon, and "ARMED" directly relates to carrying a weapon.
Padded parts in soccer : SHINS
The answer "SHINS" is the right solution because soccer players often wear shin guards to protect their shins during the game. Shin guards are padded parts that provide protection from injuries.
Plummets precipitously : DROPS LIKE A STONE
The phrase "DROPS LIKE A STONE" is commonly used to describe something that falls rapidly and without hesitation. In this context, it perfectly captures the idea of plummeting precipitously, making it the right solution for the crossword clue.
Poker variant that, despite its name, did not originate in Nebraska : OMAHA
The answer is "OMAHA" because the clue mentions that the poker variant did not originate in Nebraska. Omaha is a popular poker variant, but it is not named after the city in Nebraska. Therefore, Omaha fits the clue.
Pronouncement : EDICT
The word "EDICT" is the right solution because it means a formal pronouncement or command issued by an authority.
Put aside for a while : SHELVE
The word "shelve" means to put something aside or postpone it for a while. In this context, the clue is asking for a word that describes the action of setting something aside temporarily. Therefore, "shelve" is the right answer.
Rapper/actor on “Law & Order : SVU”
Really impresses : AWES
The answer "AWES" is the right solution because it is a short form of the word "awes" which means to really impress or amaze someone.
Shade close to lavender : LILAC
The answer to "Shade close to lavender" is "LILAC" because lilac is a shade of purple that is similar to lavender.
Simpleton : IDIOT
The answer "IDIOT" fits the clue "Simpleton" because an idiot is commonly understood to be a person lacking intelligence or common sense.
Singer Washington with three recordings in the Grammy Hall of Fame : DINAH
Dinah Washington was a singer who had three recordings in the Grammy Hall of Fame. Therefore, the answer to the clue is "DINAH."
Sly trick : WILE
The word "wile" is commonly used to describe a cunning or deceitful trick. It fits perfectly with the clue "sly trick" as it conveys the idea of using cleverness or deceit to achieve one's goals.
Solidifies : SETS
The word "sets" can mean to solidify or harden, making it the correct answer for the clue "solidifies".
Something a person in jail might make : BAIL
The answer "BAIL" is the right solution because a person in jail might make bail to secure their release before their trial.
Sound coming from a bay? : NEIGH
The answer "NEIGH" is the right solution because it represents the sound made by a horse, which can be commonly found in a bay or stable.
Souvenir for a basketball team : NET
The answer "NET" is the right solution because in basketball, the net is an essential part of the hoop. It is often taken as a souvenir by basketball teams to commemorate their achievements.
Stately trees : ELMS
The word "stately" suggests that the answer is a type of tree that is tall and majestic. Elms are known for their height and grandeur, making them a fitting answer to this clue.
Stephen of “The Crying Game” : REA
Stephen Rea is an Irish actor who played the role of Fergus in the 1992 film "The Crying Game". "REA" is a common abbreviation used in crossword puzzles for his last name.
Taxpaying option : E-FILE
The answer "E-FILE" is the right solution because it refers to the electronic filing option for paying taxes online, which has become increasingly popular and convenient in recent years.
Termite-resistant hardwood : TEAK
The answer to "Termite-resistant hardwood" is "TEAK" because teak wood naturally contains oils and resins that make it highly resistant to termites and other wood-damaging insects.
They may come with big waves in Waikiki : ALOHAS
The answer "ALOHAS" is the right solution because in Waikiki, which is a popular beach in Hawaii, big waves often attract surfers. "ALOHAS" refers to the Hawaiian greeting "Aloha," and it can also be used to describe the waves in Waikiki, which are known for their size and power.
Three-way road layout : T-JUNCTION
The answer "T-JUNCTION" is the right solution because a T-JUNCTION is a type of road layout where three roads intersect, forming a T-shape. It is called a T-JUNCTION because one road ends and joins the other two at a perpendicular angle, resembling the letter T.
Toss-up at a football game? : COIN
The answer "COIN" is the right solution because at a football game, a coin is typically tossed up to determine which team gets the first possession.
Turner in a historic rebellion : NAT
The answer "NAT" is derived from the name "Nat Turner," who was a prominent figure in a historic rebellion known as the "Nat Turner Rebellion" or "Southampton Insurrection." Therefore, "Turner in a historic rebellion" refers to Nat Turner, making "NAT" the correct solution.
Ungulate found backward in “ungulate” : GNU
The answer is "GNU" because it is the word "ungulate" spelled backward.
Until now : TO DATE
The answer "TO DATE" is the right solution for the clue "Until now" because it means up until the present moment or up until the current date. It is a concise way to convey the intended meaning.
Washed out : PALE
The answer "PALE" fits the clue "Washed out" because when something is washed out, it loses its vibrant color and becomes pale.
Weaponry on wheels : COMBAT VEHICLE
The term "weaponry" refers to weapons or armaments, and "on wheels" suggests that the answer should be something mobile. "Combat vehicle" fits this description as it refers to a vehicle specifically designed and equipped for combat purposes. It combines both the aspects of weaponry and mobility, making it the correct solution to the clue.
Weaving machine : LOOM
The answer to "Weaving machine" is "LOOM" because a loom is a device used for weaving fabric or tapestry. It consists of a frame and various components that allow threads to be interlaced to create cloth.
What a check mark may signify : OKAY
The answer "OKAY" is the right solution because a check mark is often used to indicate approval or agreement, which is synonymous with "OKAY."
What might be found in nesting boxes : EGGS
The answer is "EGGS" because nesting boxes are commonly used by birds to lay and incubate their eggs.
Witch trials town : SALEM
The town of Salem is historically known for the infamous witch trials that took place there in the late 1600s. Therefore, "Salem" is the right answer for the clue "Witch trials town."
Woman with a habit : NUN
The answer to "Woman with a habit" is "NUN" because a "habit" is a distinctive clothing worn by nuns, making it a common association.
Work with thread : SEW
The answer to "Work with thread" is "SEW" because sewing involves working with thread to join or mend fabric pieces together.
X Series carmaker : BMW
The answer to "X Series carmaker" is "BMW" because BMW is a well-known car manufacturer that produces a line of vehicles called the X Series.
Yearned (for) : PINED
The word "pined" is the right solution because it means to have a strong desire or longing for something. It fits perfectly with the clue "Yearned (for)" as it captures the idea of longing or craving for something.
Yellowfin or albacore : TUNA
The answer is "TUNA" because both yellowfin and albacore are types of tuna fish.
___ well done (good work) : A JOB
The phrase "well done" is often used to praise someone's work or effort. In this crossword clue, "A JOB" is the right answer because it is a common way to refer to someone's work or task.
___-high : SKY
The phrase "___-high" is commonly used to describe something that reaches up to the sky, making "SKY" the fitting answer.
“At Last” singer James : ETTA
The clue mentions "At Last" which is a famous song by American singer Etta James, so the answer is "ETTA".
“Ditto” : SAME
The answer "I AGREE" is the right solution for the clue "Ditto" because "I AGREE" is a common phrase used to express agreement or to say that you feel the same way as someone else. It is often used to indicate that you have the same opinion, sentiment, or position as another person.
“Look ___ this way …” : AT IT
The phrase "Look ___ this way ..." is commonly followed by "AT IT," indicating the direction or focus of attention.
“Scooping since 1928” brand : EDY’S Down 1 Fading repetition
The answer to "Scooping since 1928" brand is "EDY'S" because EDY'S is a well-known ice cream brand that has been in operation since 1928. The clue is referring to the fact that EDY'S has been scooping ice cream for a long time.
“That’s for sure!” : AND HOW!
The phrase "AND HOW!" is a colloquial expression used to emphasize agreement or certainty. It is often used to assert that something is definitely true or correct. In the context of the clue "That's for sure!", "AND HOW!" is the perfect answer as it conveys a strong sense of certainty and agreement.
“___ a date!” : IT’S
The phrase "It's a date!" is a common expression used to confirm an agreement or plan to meet up with someone. In this crossword clue, the word "It's" is a contraction of "It is" and fits perfectly with the given clue.