Mar 16 clues & answers
Every clue of this Indian mini crossword by Mangesh Ghogre, with the answer and, where it helps, how the wordplay works. Solve it yourself first: the puzzle is open to subscribers.
Across
-
1A
Persona non ___
GRATA
The phrase "persona non grata" is a Latin term that means "an unwelcome person." It is often used in diplomatic contexts to describe someone who is no longer welcome in a country or organization. The word "grata" fits perfectly in the crossword clue because it completes the phrase. This makes it clear that the answer relates to someone who is not accepted or is rejected.
-
6A
Ed on + – = ÷ × Tour in Mumbai today
SHEERAN
The answer "SHEERAN" refers to the singer Ed Sheeran. The clue "Ed on" hints at Ed's name. The symbols "+ – = ÷ ×" suggest a play on mathematical operations, which can be interpreted as a creative way to express Ed's music. Additionally, Ed Sheeran is known for his tours, and mentioning "Tour in Mumbai today" connects to his performances.
-
8A
Kandeel, in English
LANTERN
The word "Kandeel" refers to a type of decorative light or lantern used in many cultures, especially during festivals. In English, the direct translation for "Kandeel" is "lantern." Lanterns are often used to brighten up celebrations and create a festive atmosphere, just like Kandeels do. Therefore, "lantern" is the perfect answer for the crossword clue.
-
9A
Do again and again and again
ITERATE
The word "iterate" means to repeat a process multiple times. It captures the idea of doing something again and again. In many fields, like math and computer programming, iteration is essential for refining results. Therefore, "iterate" perfectly fits the clue "do again and again and again."
-
10A
Norway : Krones :: Mexico : ___
PESOS
The clue compares the currency of Norway to the currency of Mexico. Norway uses the krone as its official money, while Mexico uses the peso. Both are names for the money used in each country. So, just as Norway's currency is the krone, Mexico's currency is the peso.
Down
-
1D
Gifts from parents?
GENES
The answer "GENES" fits the clue "Gifts from parents" because genes are passed down from parents to their children. They carry genetic information that determines traits like eye color and height. Just like gifts, genes are inherited and shape who we are. This clever play on words connects biology with the idea of receiving something special from our parents.
-
2D
Nostalgia inducing, like Michael Jackson's Mumbai concert in 1996
RETRO
The answer "retro" fits the clue because it refers to something that brings back memories of the past. Michael Jackson's concert in Mumbai in 1996 is a nostalgic event for many fans. The style and music from that time are often remembered fondly, making them feel "retro." This term captures the essence of looking back at those memorable moments.
-
3D
Pi x (radius squared), for circles
AREAS
The clue "Pi x (radius squared)" describes the formula for calculating the area of a circle. In this formula, "Pi" is a mathematical constant, and "radius squared" means you multiply the radius by itself. When you put these together, you find the area of the circle, which is often simply called "area." Therefore, the answer "AREAS" fits perfectly as it refers to the result of this calculation for circles.
-
4D
Open-topped pastry
TART
A tart is a type of pastry that has an open top, usually filled with sweet or savory ingredients. The crust is often made from a rich dough, and it can be filled with fruits, custards, or other fillings. The open design allows the filling to be visible, which makes it appealing. This matches perfectly with the clue "open-topped pastry."
-
5D
Hathaway of "Ocean's 8"
ANNE
The answer to the crossword clue is ANNE. Anne Hathaway is a well-known actress who starred in the movie "Ocean's 8." In the film, she plays a key role as one of the main characters. This makes "ANNE" the perfect answer for the clue.
-
6D
Err, like assuming + – = ÷ × Tour is a Math course
SLIP
The word "slip" means to make a mistake or err, which fits the first part of the clue. In math, when you assume something incorrectly, it can lead to a "slip" in your calculations. The symbols +, –, =, ÷, and × represent basic math operations, linking back to the idea of making errors in math. Lastly, "Tour" suggests a journey through different math concepts, reinforcing that "slip" relates to mistakes made in a math course.
-
7D
Abhor or what fans may do if the singer lip-syncs at a concert
HATE
The word "hate" means to strongly dislike something. Fans might "hate" it if a singer lip-syncs at a concert because they want to hear live singing. This disappointment can lead to feelings of anger or frustration, which matches the meaning of "abhor." So, "hate" fits perfectly as the answer to the clue.