Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 2 July 2023, Sunday (07-02-23). 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.
"Although …" : UNLESS
The word "unless" is used to introduce a condition that must be met for something to happen. It is often used to express a contrast or exception. In the context of the clue "Although ...", "unless" fits perfectly as it signifies a contrasting condition that needs to be fulfilled.
"Be right with you!" : ONESEC
The answer "ONESEC" is the right solution because it is a common abbreviation for "one second," which is a phrase often used to indicate a short delay or a request for someone to wait momentarily.
"Don't be ___!" : SHY
The answer to "Don't be ___!" is "SHY" because when someone tells you not to be "shy," it means they want you to be more confident and outgoing.
"Man of the open country," in Genesis : ESAU
The answer is "ESAU" because in the book of Genesis, Esau is described as a man of the open country or a skilled hunter.
"My goodness!" : MERCY
The answer to "My goodness!" is "MERCY" because "My goodness!" is an exclamation used to express surprise or astonishment, and "MERCY" is a common interjection used in similar contexts.
"Olympia" painter : MANET
The answer to the clue "Olympia painter" is "MANET" because Édouard Manet was a famous French painter who created the renowned painting titled "Olympia."
"Put your wallet away" : ONME
The answer "ONME" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to indicate that someone else will pay for something. It implies that the person doesn't need to use their wallet because the speaker will cover the cost.
"Stop, I'm blushing!" : YOUFLATTERME
The phrase "Stop, I'm blushing!" is often used when someone receives a compliment or praise. The answer "YOUFLATTERME" is a common response to such compliments, indicating that the person is flattered by the kind words.
"This was fun, but I gotta go" : ITSBEENREAL
The answer to the clue "This was fun, but I gotta go" is "ITSBEENREAL" because it is a common phrase used to politely express that one has enjoyed the time spent but needs to leave.
"___ Rosenkavalier" : DER
The answer "DER" is the right solution because it is the German definite article for masculine nouns and is used before the word "Rosenkavalier" in the title of the opera "Der Rosenkavalier" by Richard Strauss.
"___ that somethin'!" : AINT
The clue ""___ that somethin'!"" is asking for a slang expression that means "isn't that something!" The word "AINT" is a contraction of "am not" or "is not" and is commonly used in informal speech. Therefore, "AINT" is the right solution to complete the phrase.
"… is there a reason, though?" : BUTWHY
The answer "BUTWHY" is the right solution because it directly addresses the question in the clue. "But why" is a common phrase used to express curiosity or skepticism, which aligns with the clue's query about a reason.
1980 film that led to the creation of the Academy Award for Best Makeup : THEELEPHANTMAN
The 1980 film "The Elephant Man" is the right solution because it was the first film to showcase the importance of makeup in transforming an actor's appearance. This led to the creation of the Academy Award for Best Makeup to recognize the artistry and skill involved in this craft.
A couple of chips, say : ANTE
The answer "ANTE" is the right solution because in poker or other gambling games, players often start by putting a couple of chips (or money) into the pot as an initial bet. "ANTE" is a common term used to describe this initial bet.
Abounds : TEEMS
The word "teems" means to be full or overflowing with something, like a place bustling with activity. It is the right solution because it perfectly matches the clue "abounds," which means to exist in large quantities or to be plentiful.
Abraham Accords country : Abbr.
Accept, as losses : EAT
The answer "EAT" is the right solution because "eat" can be used as a verb meaning to accept or bear the burden of something, including losses.
Actor Oliver : PLATT
The answer to "Actor Oliver" is "PLATT" because Oliver Platt is an American actor known for his roles in movies and TV shows.
AirPods, e.g. : EARBUDS
The answer "EARBUDS" is the right solution because AirPods are a type of wireless earbuds commonly used with Apple devices.
Airport across the bay from SFO : OAK
The answer is "OAK" because it refers to Oakland International Airport, which is located across the bay from San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
Alien film franchise, for short : MIB
The answer "MIB" stands for "Men in Black," which is a popular alien film franchise. It is a well-known abbreviation often used to refer to the series, making it the correct solution for the clue.
Alternative to a monthly charge : ANNUALFEE
The answer to "Alternative to a monthly charge" is "ANNUALFEE" because an annual fee is a payment made once a year instead of monthly.
Angles above 90 degrees? : HOTYOGA
Asks to join : WANTSIN
The answer "WANTSIN" is the right solution because it accurately reflects the clue "Asks to join." In this context, "WANTSIN" implies that someone is expressing a desire or willingness to be a part of something or join a group.
Attention-grabbing protests : DIEINS
The answer "DIEINS" is the right solution because "DIEINS" refers to a type of protest where participants simulate being dead by lying down. This attention-grabbing form of protest aims to bring awareness to a particular cause or issue.
Author of "The Climate Book," 2022 : THUNBERG
The answer "THUNBERG" is the right solution because Greta Thunberg is a well-known environmental activist and author who has been advocating for climate action. "The Climate Book" is a book that she is expected to release in 2022, making her the author referred to in the clue.
Author/economist Emily : OSTER
The answer "OSTER" is the right solution because Emily Oster is an author and economist.
B to B, e.g. : OCTAVE
The answer "OCTAVE" is the right solution because in music, an octave refers to the interval between two notes where the higher note has a frequency exactly double that of the lower note. In the context of "B to B, e.g.", it is referring to the distance between two B notes, which is an octave.
Band with the 2021 #1 hit "Butter" : BTS
The answer is "BTS" because they are the band that had the 2021 #1 hit "Butter".
Break after a major fall? : SNOWDAY
The answer "SNOWDAY" is the right solution because after a major fall of snow, schools and workplaces often close or take a break, which is commonly referred to as a "snow day."
Broadway, e.g. : AVENUE
The answer to "Broadway, e.g." is "AVENUE" because Broadway is a famous street in New York City, and an avenue is a type of street.
Called up : RANG
"Called up" is a phrasal verb that means to bring something to mind or to summon something. "Evoked" is a synonym of this phrasal verb, which makes it the correct answer.
Cat, in Spanish : GATO
The answer "GATO" is the right solution because it is the Spanish word for "cat".
Certain side wagers, informally : PROPBETS
The answer "PROPBETS" fits the clue because "side wagers" refers to bets made on specific events or outcomes during a game or event, and "informally" suggests that these bets are not formal or official. "PROPBETS" is a commonly used term to describe such informal wagers.
Charlotte ___, capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands : AMALIE
The answer to "Charlotte ___, capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands" is "AMALIE" because Charlotte Amalie is the actual name of the capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Cheri of Hollywood : OTERI
The answer "OTERI" is the right solution because Cheri Oteri is an American actress known for her work in Hollywood.
Chill place to stay? : ICEHOTEL
The answer "ICEHOTEL" is the right solution because it combines the words "ICE" (referring to the cold temperature) and "HOTEL" (a place to stay). The clue is asking for a place that is both chilly and a place to stay, making "ICEHOTEL" the perfect fit.
Chinese zodiac animal of 2023 : RABBIT
The Chinese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by a different animal. 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit according to the Chinese zodiac.
Coast, in a way : SLED
The answer "SLED" is the right solution for the clue "Coast, in a way" because a sled is an object that can be used to slide or coast downhill on snow or ice.
Coin toss spots, once : TOLLBOOTHS
Collegiate beaver mascot whose name is its school spelled backward : TIM
The answer "TIM" is the right solution because when you spell it backward, it becomes "MIT," which is the abbreviation for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The beaver is the mascot of MIT, making "TIM" the collegiate beaver mascot whose name is its school spelled backward.
Conductor Zubin : MEHTA
The answer to "Conductor Zubin" is "MEHTA" because Zubin Mehta is a well-known and respected conductor in the world of classical music.
Contents of some streaks on cheeks : MASCARA
The answer "MASCARA" is the right solution because mascara is a cosmetic product that is commonly used to enhance eyelashes, and sometimes it can smudge or streak on the cheeks when applied.
Court count : NINE
The answer to "Court count" is "NINE" because there are typically nine judges on a traditional court.
Crystal container : GEODE
The answer to "Crystal container" is "GEODE" because a geode is a hollow rock formation that contains sparkling crystals inside. It fits the clue as it describes a natural container for crystals.
Deer ___, Maine vacation destination : ISLE
The answer "ISLE" is the right solution because Deer Isle is an actual vacation destination in Maine. "ISLE" is a synonym for "island," indicating that Deer Isle is a place surrounded by water.
Designer Schiaparelli : ELSA
The answer to "Designer Schiaparelli" is "ELSA" because Elsa Schiaparelli was a famous Italian fashion designer known for her unique and innovative designs.
Devious sorts : IMPS
The answer "IMPS" fits the clue "Devious sorts" because "IMPS" typically refers to mischievous or cunning individuals.
Diner caddy offering : SUGAR
The answer "SUGAR" is the right solution because a diner caddy typically contains packets of sugar that customers can use to sweeten their beverages or food.
Does an impression of : APES
The answer "APES" is the right solution because when someone does an impression of something, they imitate or mimic its actions or behavior. In this case, "APES" refers to imitating the actions or behavior of apes.
E.R. lines : IVS
The answer "IVS" is the right solution because in an E.R. (Emergency Room), medical professionals often administer fluids or medication through intravenous lines, which are commonly referred to as IVs.
Evening coffee order : DECAFLATTE
The answer "DECAFLATTE" is the right solution because it combines two key elements: "evening" and "coffee order." "Decaf" refers to decaffeinated coffee, which is often preferred in the evening to avoid caffeine keeping one awake. "Latte" is a popular coffee order that consists of espresso and steamed milk. Therefore, "DECAFLATTE" is an appropriate answer for an evening coffee order.
Excavated : DUG
The word "excavated" is a verb that means to dig or remove earth or soil. The answer "DUG" is the past tense of the verb "dig," making it the correct solution.
Feature that helps to avoid late penalties : AUTOPAY
The answer "AUTOPAY" is the right solution because it refers to a feature in which payments are automatically deducted from a person's account on a specified date. By setting up autopay, one can ensure that bills are paid on time, avoiding late penalties.
Female 20-Down : DOE
The answer "DOE" is the right solution because "DOE" is a term commonly used to refer to a female deer.
File menu option : SAVEAS
The answer "SAVEAS" is the right solution because it is a commonly used file menu option that allows users to save a file with a different name or in a different location.
Future 122-Across : OVULE
The answer "OVULE" is the right solution for "Future 122-Across" because an ovule is a structure in plants that develops into a seed after fertilization. It fits the clue as it refers to something that has the potential for future growth or development.
Future flower : SEED
The answer to "Future flower" is "SEED" because a seed has the potential to grow into a flower in the future.
G, in the C scale : SOL
The answer to "G, in the C scale" is "SOL" because in the C major scale, G is the fifth note. In solfège, the syllable "sol" is used to represent the fifth note of a major scale.
Garage brand : STP
The answer to "Garage brand" is "STP" because STP is a well-known brand that specializes in automotive products, including motor oil additives and fuel additives. It is commonly found in garages and used by car enthusiasts.
Georgetown athlete : HOYA
The answer to "Georgetown athlete" is "HOYA" because the Georgetown University sports teams are known as the Hoyas.
Give in : YIELD
The answer to "Give in" is "YIELD" because "yield" means to surrender or give way, which matches the clue "Give in" perfectly.
Go down in flames : TANK
The answer "TANK" is the right solution because "go down in flames" is a phrase that means to fail or be defeated, which is synonymous with the word "tank" in this context.
Gossips : YENTAS
The word "YENTAS" is the right solution for "Gossips" because "YENTAS" refers to talkative or chatty people who love to share gossip.
Greek vowel : ETA
The answer to "Greek vowel" is "ETA" because ETA is a Greek letter that represents the vowel sound "e" in English.
Group of candidates : SLATE
The answer "SLATE" fits the clue "Group of candidates" because in the context of elections, a slate refers to a list of candidates running together as a group or party.
High standards established by a predecessor … or what you are presented with in this puzzle? : BIGSHOESTOFILL
The phrase "big shoes to fill" is a commonly used expression that means having to live up to high standards set by someone else. In the context of this crossword clue, it refers to the high standards set by a predecessor. It is also cleverly related to the puzzle itself, as the solver is presented with a challenge to fill in the crossword grid correctly. Therefore, "BIGSHOESTOFILL" is the right answer.
Highfalutin : LAHDIDAH
Hill who wrote "Speaking Truth to Power" : ANITA
The answer to "Hill who wrote "Speaking Truth to Power"" is "ANITA" because Anita Hill is the author of the book "Speaking Truth to Power."
Hopping joint? : KNEE
The answer "KNEE" is the right solution because the word "hopping" is a clue that suggests an action related to jumping or movement. The joint in our body that allows us to hop or jump is the knee. Therefore, "KNEE" is the correct answer.
Important part of a toddler's day : NAPTIME
The answer "NAPTIME" is the right solution because it refers to an important part of a toddler's day when they take a short sleep during the day.
In a way : SORTOF
The clue "In a way" is asking for an adverb that means "to some extent." "Sorta" is a colloquial way of saying "sort of," which fits the definition and length of the clue.
In which "P or Q, but not both" is represented as (P∨Q)∧¬(P∧Q) : SYMBOLICLOGIC
unknown
Informal farewell : SEEYA
The answer "SEEYA" is the right solution for the clue "Informal farewell" because "SEEYA" is a commonly used slang term for saying goodbye. It is a shortened form of "see you" and is often used in casual or informal settings.
Insult : DISS
"Insult" is the definition of the word "DERIDE". To deride means to insult or ridicule someone or something.
It goes in and out : FAD
The answer "FAD" fits the clue "It goes in and out" because a fad is something that becomes popular for a short period of time and then fades away or goes out of style.
Its name derives from the Washoe for "lake" : TAHOE
The answer "TAHOE" is the right solution because Lake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The name "Tahoe" is derived from the Washoe Native American tribe's word for "lake."
Jazz genre for Charlie Parker : BEBOP
The answer is "BEBOP" because it is a jazz genre closely associated with Charlie Parker.
Like heterochromia in eyes : RARE
The term "heterochromia" refers to a condition where a person has different colored eyes. Since this condition is relatively uncommon, the answer "RARE" is appropriate.
Like some winter roads : SLUSHY
The answer "SLUSHY" is the right solution because it describes the condition of some winter roads. When the temperature rises above freezing, snow on the roads can melt and mix with water, creating a slushy texture.
Linguistic group including Zulu and Xhosa : BANTU
The answer is "BANTU" because it refers to a large linguistic group in Africa that includes Zulu and Xhosa.
Longed (for) : YEARNED
The answer "YEARNED" fits the clue "Longed (for)" because "yearned" means to have a strong desire or longing for something.
Loudly chastise : YELLAT
The answer "YELLAT" fits the clue "Loudly chastise" because "YELL" means to shout loudly, and "AT" indicates the target of the shouting.
Love, at the Louvre : AIME
The answer "AIME" is the right solution because "AIME" means "love" in French, and the Louvre is a famous art museum located in Paris, France. Therefore, "Love, at the Louvre" is a playful way of cluing the French word for "love," which is "AIME."
Mages' accessories : STAFFS
The answer "STAFFS" is the right solution because in fantasy and magic-themed contexts, mages often wield staffs as accessories or tools to channel their magical powers.
Makes a case against, say : SUES
The answer "SUES" is the right solution because when someone makes a case against someone else, they often file a lawsuit, which is commonly referred to as "suing" someone.
Minus : LESS
"SANS" is a French word that means "without". In English, it is commonly used to indicate that something is missing or excluded. Therefore, "Minus" is a synonym for "without" and "SANS" is a suitable answer for this crossword clue.
Mobile homes, punnily : WHEELESTATE
The answer "WHEELESTATE" is a pun on the phrase "real estate." It combines the idea of mobile homes, which can be moved or wheeled around, with the concept of real estate, which refers to properties and housing. Therefore, "WHEELESTATE" is a clever and punny way to describe mobile homes.
National org. that doesn't actually have an age requirement for membership : AARP
The answer to "National org. that doesn't actually have an age requirement for membership" is "AARP" because AARP, also known as the American Association of Retired Persons, is a national organization that primarily caters to the needs and interests of people aged 50 and older. However, it does not have a strict age requirement for membership, meaning that individuals of any age can join.
OB/GYN offering : IUD
The answer "IUD" is the right solution for the clue "OB/GYN offering" because an IUD, or intrauterine device, is a contraceptive device that is commonly provided by OB/GYNs to their patients.
Oil company with toy trucks : HESS
The answer is "HESS" because Hess is an oil company that is known for releasing toy trucks during the holiday season.
Online initialism rarely meant literally : LOL
The answer to the clue "Online initialism rarely meant literally" is "LOL" because LOL stands for "laugh out loud," but it is often used figuratively to indicate amusement or humor in online conversations.
Overseer of Windy City buses and trains, in brief : CTA
The answer "CTA" stands for Chicago Transit Authority, which is the organization responsible for overseeing buses and trains in the Windy City.
Paella seasoning : SAL
The answer "SAL" is the right solution because it is a common seasoning used in paella, a traditional Spanish dish. "SAL" is the Spanish word for salt, which is a key ingredient in paella to enhance its flavor.
Pantomimes, perhaps : ACTS
The answer to "Pantomimes, perhaps" is "ACTS" because in a pantomime, actors perform various acts or scenes to tell a story.
Peacock seen on TV : NBCLOGO
The answer "NBCLOGO" is the right solution because NBC is a television network known for its logo featuring a peacock. The clue is asking for a peacock seen on TV, and NBCLOGO fits that description.
Pentathlon event : EPEE
The answer "EPEE" is the right solution because it is one of the weapons used in the modern pentathlon event.
Poetic lament : ELEGY
The answer to "Poetic lament" is "ELEGY" because an elegy is a type of poem or song that expresses grief or sorrow, making it a fitting choice for a poetic lament.
Pottery oven : KILN
The answer to "Pottery oven" is "KILN" because a kiln is a specialized oven used for firing pottery and ceramics. It reaches high temperatures to harden and dry the clay, making it the correct answer for this clue.
Prefix with sphere or system : ECO
The prefix "ECO" is the right solution because it means "relating to the environment" or "concerned with ecological preservation." It is commonly used with words like "sphere" or "system" to indicate a focus on environmental issues.
Prompt : CUE
The word "CUE" can mean a signal or prompt to do something, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Prompt."
Proxima Centauri, e.g. : REDDWARF
Rated rides : UBERS
Razor edges? : ARS
The answer "ARS" is the right solution because "ARS" is an abbreviation for "razor edges" in the context of crossword puzzles. It is a common crossword convention to use abbreviations for certain words or phrases, and "ARS" is the abbreviation commonly used for "razor edges".
Ready-to-go link? : SET Down
The answer "SET" is the right solution because "ready-to-go" is a clue for something that is prepared or arranged, and "link" is a clue for a word that connects or joins things together. "SET" fits both of these clues as it can mean something that is ready and prepared, and it can also mean a group of items that are connected or arranged together.
Recliner setting : DEN
The answer "DEN" is the right solution because a recliner is often found in a den, which is a cozy and comfortable room in a house where people relax and unwind.
Sch. whose mascot is Brutus Buckeye : OSU
The answer is "OSU" because it is the abbreviation for Ohio State University, whose mascot is Brutus Buckeye.
Secretary of the interior Haaland : DEB
Shocked sounds : GASPS
The answer "GASPS" is the right solution because when people are shocked, they often make a sudden intake of breath, which is commonly referred to as a gasp.
Show excessive affection toward : SMOTHER
The word "smother" means to show excessive affection toward someone. It fits the given clue perfectly.
Silicon Valley, e.g. : TECHHUB
The answer "TECHHUB" is the right solution because Silicon Valley is known for being a hub of technology companies. "TECHHUB" captures the essence of this region as a center for technological innovation and development.
Software engineer, for short : DEV
The answer "DEV" is short for "developer," which is a common term used to refer to a software engineer in the tech industry.
Soup often made with rice vermicelli noodles : PHO
The answer to the clue "Soup often made with rice vermicelli noodles" is "PHO" because Pho is a traditional Vietnamese soup that commonly includes rice vermicelli noodles as one of its main ingredients.
Stephen K. ___, British stand-up comedian : AMOS
The answer to "Stephen K. ___, British stand-up comedian" is "AMOS" because Stephen K. Amos is a well-known British stand-up comedian.
Sullivan's opponent in a landmark free speech case : Abbr.
The answer to "Sullivan's opponent in a landmark free speech case" is "Abbr." because the clue is asking for an abbreviation. The abbreviation "Abbr." stands for "abbreviation," which means it represents a shortened form of a word or phrase.
The "I" in FIFA : Abbr.
The answer to "The "I" in FIFA" is "Abbr." because "Abbr." is short for abbreviation, indicating that the answer is an abbreviation. In this case, "I" stands for "International" in FIFA.
Think of : RECALL
The answer "RECALL" is the right solution because it means to bring to mind or remember something, which is exactly what "Think of" is asking for.
Turndowns : NOES
The word "turndowns" is a clue that indicates we are looking for words that mean "rejections" or "refusals." The word "NOES" is a plural form of "NO," which is a common way to express refusal. Therefore, "NOES" is the right solution for the clue "Turndowns."
Turns down : DIMS
The word "dims" means to make something less bright or intense. When someone "turns down" a light or a volume, they are making it less bright or intense. Therefore, "dims" is the right answer to the clue "Turns down."
Twitter username : HANDLE
The term "handle" is commonly used to refer to a username or screen name on social media platforms, including Twitter. It is a concise and straightforward answer that accurately matches the clue.
Under 1%, say : SKIM
The clue "Under 1%, say" suggests that we are looking for something that is less than 1%. The word "skim" is commonly used to refer to milk that has had the cream removed, making it lower in fat content. Since cream typically contains more than 1% fat, "skim" is a suitable answer as it fits the clue.
Unflagging : STAUNCH
The word "staunch" means unwavering or not weakening. It is a fitting answer for the clue "unflagging" as it describes someone or something that remains constant and persistent.
Vegetable that can be slimy when cooked : OKRA
The vegetable that can be slimy when cooked is "OKRA" because when okra is cooked, it releases a mucilaginous substance that gives it a slimy texture.
Ventimiglia of "This Is Us" : MILO
The answer to the clue "Ventimiglia of "This Is Us"" is "MILO" because Milo Ventimiglia is the actor who portrays the character Jack Pearson on the television show "This Is Us".
We don't talk about that : TABOO
The word "TABOO" is the right solution because it refers to something that is considered socially or culturally prohibited from being discussed or mentioned. It fits the clue "We don't talk about that" as it implies a topic that is off-limits or forbidden to discuss.
What "X" could mark on a map : PIRATESBOOTY
What always has time on its hands : WATCH
The answer "WATCH" is the right solution because a watch is a device that is always worn on the wrist and is used to tell time. It literally has time on its hands, referring to the hour and minute hands on the watch face.
What follows You on the internet : TUBE
The word "TUBE" is the right solution to the clue "What follows You on the internet" because "YouTube" is a popular online platform that follows the word "You" and is commonly referred to as "Tube" for short.
Wildlife spotted in Haleakala National Park : NENE
The answer "NENE" is the right solution because it is a type of wildlife commonly spotted in Haleakala National Park. The Nene is a species of goose that is native to Hawaii and is known for its distinctive appearance and honking sound.
Zero : NONE
The answer to "Zero" is "NONE" because "none" means "not any" or "zero" in numerical terms.
___ check : GUT
The answer "GUT" fits the clue "___ check" because it refers to a gut check, which means to evaluate or assess one's instincts or intuition.
___ Negro (Amazon tributary) : RIO
The answer is "RIO" because it is a common crossword abbreviation for "river" in Spanish and Portuguese. In this case, it refers to the Amazon tributary called "Rio Negro."
___-Missouria Tribe : OTOE
The OTOE-Missouria Tribe is a Native American tribe located in Oklahoma. "OTOE" is the correct answer because it is the first part of the tribe's name.