The Independent’s Mini crossword is a smaller version of a crossword but a fun activity that can be completed in just a few minutes. It is ideal for a quick mental exercise during your break. Our guide provides all the answers for today’s clues and their explanations to help you solve the puzzle effortlessly.
It’s measured in degrees
Answer: BURN
It’s measured in degrees” suggests that we are looking for something that can be quantified using degrees. In this context, “burn” refers to the degree or extent of injury caused by exposure to heat, which can indeed be measured in degrees of severity, such as first-degree burn, second-degree burn, etc.
Tropical fruit
Answer: PAPAW
Tropical fruit” indicates that we’re searching for a type of fruit commonly found in tropical regions. “Papaw” fits this description as it is a tropical fruit also known as papaya, which is native to the tropics and is widely cultivated for its sweet and juicy flesh.
Found on graduation caps
Answer: TASSEL
Found on graduation caps” directs us to an object commonly associated with graduations. A “tassel” is a decorative hanging ornament consisting of a bunch of threads or cords often attached to the top of a graduation cap, symbolizing academic achievement and completion of studies.
Clothing
Answer: FORM
“Clothing” suggests that we’re looking for a term related to garments or attire. “Form” can refer to the shape or structure of clothing, such as the cut or style that clothing takes on when worn. It can also refer to a document or template used for ordering clothing, such as a purchase order form.
Used for horseback riding
Answer: REINS
“Used for horseback riding” suggests an item related to controlling a horse. “Reins” are straps or lines attached to a horse’s bridle, used by the rider to guide and control the horse’s movements.
Bird word
Answer: CAW
“Bird word” implies that we’re looking for a sound associated with a bird. “Caw” is an onomatopoeic word that imitates the harsh, raucous sound made by crows and similar birds.
Quartz variety
Answer: OPAL
“Quartz variety” directs us to a type of mineral. While opal is not a variety of quartz, it is a distinct gemstone known for its colorful, iridescent appearance. It is formed from silica and is prized for its unique play of color.
Country
Answer: TRIBE
Country” seems to be misleading, as “tribe” typically refers to a social group made up of people who share common ancestry, culture, language, and customs, rather than a sovereign nation. It’s possible that this clue might be a play on words, suggesting that a tribe is a community or group of people similar to a country in some ways.
Slot spot
Answer: CASINO
“Slot spot” suggests a location where one might find slot machines, which are popular gambling devices. A “casino” is a facility or establishment that houses various forms of gambling activities, including slot machines, table games, and more
Left-hand page
Answer: EVEN
Left-hand page” might be interpreted as referring to the even-numbered page in a book, as the left-hand page is typically on the even side of an open book. “Even” also means numbers that are divisible by 2 without leaving a remainder, which aligns with the concept of even-numbered pages being on the left side in some books.
India pale ___
Answer: ALE
“India pale ___” suggests that we’re looking for a type of beer. “India pale ale” (IPA) is a style of beer known for its hoppy flavor and higher alcohol content. The clue provides a partial phrase, leaving “ale” to complete the name of the beer style.
Black gunk
Answer: TAR
“Black gunk” implies a sticky, viscous substance that is typically dark in color. “Tar” fits this description perfectly as it is a thick, black, sticky substance derived from the distillation of organic materials such as wood, coal, or petroleum.
