Mar 8 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 Soft mineral TALC
- 5A Muscle contraction, as a bowler may have SPASM
- 10A Actress based in Australia? ALIA
- 11A Get fit TONEUP
- 13A ___ pressure PEER
- 14A Like palaces in Udaipur ORNATE
- 15A SKY, in cricket SURYAKUMAR
- 17A Granola bit OAT
- 18A _ar, _ose and _hroat doc ENT
- 19A Off, middle or leg, in cricket STUMP
- 22A Annual celebration BIRTH
- 24A "Do you know ___?" HIM
- 25A Brand of ballpoint pen BIC
- 26A Vital, as winning the T20 finals IMPERATIVE
- 31A Battery-powered rides EBIKES
- 32A Rupee : Paisa :: Dollar : ___ CENT
- 34A Calm and collected SERENE
- 35A Blokes LADS
- 36A Second attempts REDOS
- 37A "Frozen" queen ELSA
Down
- 1D Brewery fixture TAP
- 2D Brewery offerings ALES
- 3D In ___ of (instead of) LIEU
- 4D Game with queen, striker, cover CARROM
- 5D Weasel family member STOAT
- 6D Sheep : Mutton :: Pig : ___ PORK
- 7D Kapoor hiding in Taapsee's last name ANNU
- 8D Fast bowler, as Jasprit Bumrah SEAMER
- 9D "Teenage ____ Ninja Turtles" MUTANT
- 12D Australian city host to WACA Ground PERTH
- 16D Pay back? YAP
- 19D ____ away from (avoids) SHIES
- 20D Wood used for building TIMBER
- 21D Steve Bucknor or David Shepherd, say UMPIRE
- 22D Tiny amount BIT
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23D
Glacial cave formation
ICICLE
An icicle is a formation that occurs when water melts and then freezes again, often seen hanging from roofs or cliffs. These structures can form in glacial areas where temperatures fluctuate. As the ice melts during the day and refreezes at night, icicles can grow longer and more defined. This makes "icicle" a fitting answer for the clue about a glacial cave formation.
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25D
Substances with pH > 7
BASES
The clue asks for substances with a pH greater than 7, which are known as bases. Bases are the opposite of acids and can neutralize them. They are often found in cleaning products and baking soda. This is why "bases" is the correct answer to the crossword clue.
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27D
____ out a living (just managed)
EKED
The phrase "eked out a living" means to manage to get by, often with difficulty. The word "eked" suggests making the most of limited resources. It fits perfectly with the clue "just managed," as it implies struggling but still managing to survive. This term is often used when someone is making a small amount of money last as long as possible.
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28D
Casino city near Las Vegas
RENO
Reno is a city in Nevada, just a few hours' drive from Las Vegas. It is known for its casinos and vibrant nightlife, making it a popular destination for gambling. Often called "The Biggest Little City in the World," Reno offers a similar experience to Las Vegas but on a smaller scale. This makes it a fitting answer to the clue about a casino city near Las Vegas.
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29D
Calf meat
VEAL
Veal is the meat that comes from young calves, making it a specific type of meat. It is known for its tender texture and mild flavor. Many people enjoy veal in various dishes, such as veal Parmesan or veal piccata. This directly matches the clue "calf meat," as veal is derived from calves.
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30D
All's well that ___ well
ENDS
The phrase "All's well that ends well" is a common saying that means if the final outcome is good, then the difficulties along the way don't matter. In this context, "ends" is the key word that completes the phrase. It emphasizes the idea that the conclusion is what truly counts. Therefore, "ENDS" is the perfect fit for the crossword clue.
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33D
Airport org. that approves some bag locks
TSA
The answer to the crossword clue is TSA, which stands for the Transportation Security Administration. This organization is responsible for airport security in the United States. They approve certain types of locks for luggage that can be opened by security without damaging the bag. This makes it easier for them to check bags while keeping travelers' belongings safe.