> At a Glance
> – The Jan 7 NYT Mini Crossword includes Gen-Z slang “NOCAP” for 3-Down
> – Constructor found the Across clues tougher than usual
> – Full answers and solving tips are now available
> – Why it matters: Quick access to daily puzzle solutions keeps streaks alive and builds solving skills
Today’s Mini Crossword had solvers pausing at 3-Down, where fresh slang met pencil-and-paper tradition. Sophia A. Reynolds at News Of Los Angeles walked through the grid and shared the full solution list.
The Trickiest Clues
Across entries felt harder than normal, forcing many to jump to the Down clues for toeholds. 3-Down, clued as “I’m serious!, in slang,” surprised longtime solvers with the five-letter answer NOCAP-a term that migrated from TikTok comments into mainstream wordplay.
- 1A Planning to, informally → GONNA
- 6A ___ tolls (GPS setting) → AVOID
- 7A Pulsed quickly, as the heart → RACED
- 8A Draw an outline of → TRACE
- 9A Prefix with loop for theoretical high-speed transport → HYPER
Down Answers
- 1D Wayne’s sidekick in “Wayne’s World” → GARTH
- 2D Egg-producing organ → OVARY
- 3D “I’m serious!,” in slang → NOCAP
- 4D Sister’s daughter → NIECE
- 5D Snake that sounds like it would be good at math? → ADDER
Key Takeaways
- The grid balanced classic trivia with modern slang
- Switching from Across to Down clues unlocked progress
- Daily solving guides are updated alongside Wordle, Connections and Strands hints
Bookmark the News Of Los Angeles puzzle page for tomorrow’s answers and keep your streak intact.
