The Jan. 21, 2026 puzzle from the NYT Mini Crossword offers a quick challenge for word game enthusiasts. Solvers can find the full list of answers and a brief explanation of each clue in this article. The puzzle also features a surprising two-part answer that ties together two separate clues.
At a Glance
- Jan. 21, 2026 NYT Mini Crossword with 9 across and 7 down clues.
- A two-part answer links 5-Across and 2-Down.
- The puzzle includes a descriptive clue and a mix of straightforward answers.
Puzzle Overview
The NYT Mini Crossword is a daily puzzle that appears in the New York Times. The Jan. 21, 2026 edition features 9 across clues and 7 down clues. The grid is compact, designed for quick solving.
A screenshot of the puzzle is included in the article, giving readers a visual reference. The article notes that the puzzle is part of the New York Times puzzle suite. It also mentions other daily puzzles such as Wordle, Strands, Connections, and Connections: Sports Edition.
Readers are encouraged to use the puzzle hints page for additional guidance. The article offers hints and guidance for daily solvers. The hints page includes tips and tricks for solving the Mini Crossword.
Clue Breakdown
Across clues and answers are listed below. The table below shows each across clue number, the clue text, and the answer. The table also includes the number of letters for each answer.
| Across | Clue | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1A | The slightest amount | ABIT |
| 5A | With 2-Down, intentionally inflammatory posts | RAGE |
| 6A | Dirty stuff | FILTH |
| 8A | Five Below or 7-Eleven | STORE |
| 9A | Something used to steer a rowboat | OAR |
Down clues and answers are listed below. The table below shows each down clue number, the clue text, and the answer. The table also includes the number of letters for each answer.
| Down | Clue | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1D | Sounds from a doggy daycare | ARFS |
| 2D | See 5-Across | BAIT |
| 3D | Domed home | IGLOO |
| 4D | Small, colorful fish that’s popular in aquariums | TETRA |
| 7D | 2013 film in which Joaquin Phoenix’s character falls in love with an A.I. operating system | HER |
Two-Part Answer Explained
5-Across and 2-Down form a two-part answer. 5-Across is RAGE and 2-Down is BAIT. Together they create the phrase RAGE BAIT, meaning intentionally inflammatory posts.
The puzzle includes a descriptive clue for this pair. This clue guides solvers to combine the two separate answers. The descriptive clue is an uncommon feature in Mini Crosswords.
Clue Explanations
1A: ABIT means a small amount. The answer fits the clue’s definition of a slight quantity. The three-letter answer matches the grid pattern.
5A: RAGE is a word for intense anger. The clue references the emotional intensity. The answer is a common crossword word.
6A: FILTH means dirty stuff. The answer directly matches the clue’s definition. The five-letter answer fits the grid.
8A: STORE refers to a Five Below or 7-Eleven. The answer is a generic term for a retail location. The clue’s wording matches the answer.
9A: OAR is used to steer a rowboat. The answer is a common rowing implement. The clue matches the answer’s definition.
1D: ARFS are sounds from a doggy daycare. The answer is the onomatopoeic representation of a bark. The clue directs solvers to a dog-related sound.
2D: BAIT is part of the two-part answer. The answer fits the grid and works with 5-Across. The clue directs solvers to the second half of the phrase.
3D: IGLOO is a domed home. The answer describes a type of dwelling. The clue matches the answer’s definition.
4D: TETRA is a small, colorful fish popular in aquariums. The answer matches the clue’s description. The fish is a common aquarium species.
7D: HER is the 2013 film starring Joaquin Phoenix. The answer matches the clue’s description. The film is about a human-A.I. relationship.
Puzzle Strategy Tips
Use the grid to cross-check letters. The grid layout helps verify each answer. Cross-checking reduces errors.
Look for two-part answers early. Identifying paired clues speeds solving. The two-part answer appears in this puzzle.
Check for descriptive clues that hint at pairings. Descriptive clues guide solvers to combine answers. They are rare in Mini Crosswords.
Use word patterns to narrow possibilities. Patterns such as _ _ _ _ _ help filter options. Pattern matching is a common technique.
Consider common crossword abbreviations. Abbreviations often appear in clues. Knowing them speeds solving.
Check the puzzle hints page for extra guidance. The hints page offers additional tips. It is a useful resource for solvers.
Daily Puzzle Series
The New York Times offers Wordle, Strands, Connections, and Connections: Sports Edition. Each puzzle has its own theme and difficulty level. The article encourages readers to visit the puzzle hints page.
The hints page offers tips and tricks for solving. It provides guidance for daily puzzles. The page also hosts a community of solvers.
Conclusion
The Jan. 21, 2026 NYT Mini Crossword offers a mix of straightforward and pair clues. Solvers can use the provided answers as a guide. The article invites readers to check hints and strategy.
Readers can also explore other daily puzzles. The puzzle highlights the New York Times’ commitment to engaging word games. The article serves as a quick reference for daily solvers.
The puzzle demonstrates how a small grid can provide a satisfying challenge. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the puzzle. The puzzle remains a popular daily activity for many.
