About these answers
Mini #313's ten answers fill 21 white squares, and every one of them is crossed, so each letter belongs to one Across and one Down answer. The longest answers are MASON (4-Across), AMUSE (6-Across), TEASE (7-Across), CAMEO (1-Down), USUAL (2-Down) and POSSE (3-Down), at five letters; the shortest are CUP (1-Across), OLE (8-Across), MAT (4-Down) and NEE (5-Down).
The grid uses eleven different letters. The most common is E, in four squares, and 11 of the 21 squares hold a vowel (A, E, I, O or U). There’s no J, Q, X or Z in it.
The trickier clues, explained
- 2-Down, “‘As ___’ (like always)”: the blank is USUAL, giving “‘As USUAL’ (like always)”.
- 4-Down, “Wrestling surface, or a welcome ___”: the blank is MAT, giving “Wrestling surface, or a welcome MAT”.
More for August 9, 2026
Only need a nudge? The hints for August 9, 2026 keep answers hidden and give three hints per clue. You can also play Mini #313 or print it. Neighbouring keys: August 8, 2026 and August 10, 2026.