Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Tuesday April 11th 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 Emery board target: NAIL
An emery board is a small, flat board with a rough surface, used for shaping and smoothing nails. The target of an emery board is the nail itself, which can be filed and shaped with the abrasive surface of the board.
5 Change as needed: ADAPT
To adapt means to adjust or modify something in response to changing circumstances. When something is described as being changed “as needed,” it means that it is being adapted or adjusted to suit the current situation.
10 “F” on a gas gauge: FULL
The “F” on a gas gauge stands for “full.” When the gauge reads “F,” it means that the fuel tank is completely full and has reached its maximum capacity.
14 No-frills grocery chain that collects a deposit for a shopping cart: ALDI
ALDI is a grocery store chain that is known for its low prices and no-frills approach to shopping. To encourage customers to return their shopping carts to the designated area, ALDI requires a small deposit for the use of a cart, which is refunded when the cart is returned.
15 With a long face: SADLY
The phrase “with a long face” is an idiom that means to look sad or disappointed. When someone is described as looking “sadly,” it means that they have a sad or disappointed expression on their face.
16 Michigan neighbor: OHIO
Michigan and Ohio are neighboring states in the Midwest region of the United States. They share a border along the southern edge of Michigan and the northern edge of Ohio.
17 Self-checkout sound: BEEP
When using a self-checkout machine at a store, a “beep” sound is often heard after scanning an item. This sound indicates that the item has been successfully scanned and registered by the machine.
18 Batch of Brownies: TROOP
In this clue, “Batch of Brownies” is a play on words, as it can refer both to a group of brownies (the chocolate dessert) or a group of Brownies (a youth organization similar to Girl Scouts). However, the capitalized “Brownies” suggests that the answer is the latter meaning, and “Troop” is the correct word to fill in the blanks. In the Brownies organization, a “troop” is a group of girls who participate in activities and events together.
19 Paper towel purchase: ROLL
This clue is fairly straightforward. A “paper towel” is a disposable cleaning product that comes in a long, rectangular shape, often wound into a cylindrical shape. The answer to this clue is simply “ROLL”, which refers to the cylindrical shape that paper towels come in.
20 Has significant influence: CARRIES WEIGHT
This clue uses a common idiomatic expression to convey the answer. “Carries weight” means that something has a lot of influence or authority, often because it is important or respected. For example, if someone says “His opinion carries a lot of weight around here”, they mean that his opinion is highly valued and influential. The “” in the clue suggests that this answer is a longer phrase or idiom, rather than a single word.
23 AirPods holders: EARS
This clue is a bit of a trick question. The AirPods mentioned in the clue are a type of wireless earbuds made by Apple, so the answer is simply “EARS”, since that’s where the AirPods are held (in your ear canals). The clue is cleverly worded to make it seem like there might be a more specific or unusual answer.
24 Nothing to write home about: SO-SO
This is another idiomatic expression that is commonly used to describe something that is mediocre or unremarkable. If someone says “The movie was so-so”, they mean that it was neither great nor terrible, just average. The clue uses a hyphenated form of the phrase to fit the crossword puzzle.
25 Small talk: CHAT
“Small talk” refers to casual, light conversation that people make with each other in social situations. It often involves topics like the weather, sports, or other non-controversial subjects. The answer to this clue is simply “CHAT”, which is a synonym for conversation.
27 Bubble tea “bubbles”: BOBA
This clue refers to a type of drink called bubble tea, which originated in Taiwan and has become popular in many parts of the world. Bubble tea is usually made with a base of tea or milk, and includes small, chewy balls called “boba” or “pearls” that are made from tapioca starch. The boba add a unique texture to the drink and are often flavored or sweetened. The answer to this clue is “BOBA”, which is the name of the tapioca balls themselves.
30 Encapsulated ecosystem: BIODOME
A “biodome” is a sealed, self-contained ecosystem that is designed to support life. It is typically used for research purposes, or as a way to recreate a natural environment in a controlled setting. Biodomes can range in size from small, tabletop models to large, geodesic structures that cover acres of land. In the context of this crossword clue, “encapsulated ecosystem” is a description that fits the idea of a biodome, and “BIODOME” is the correct word to fill in the blanks.
33 Lead an orchestra: CONDUCT
To “conduct” an orchestra means to direct the musicians in their performance. The conductor is typically the person who stands at the front of the orchestra and uses hand gestures and cues to guide the musicians through the piece of music. Conducting requires both musical knowledge and leadership skills, as the conductor must be able to interpret the music and communicate their interpretation to the musicians. The answer to this clue is simply “CONDUCT”.
36 “Tutti,” in English: ALL
“Tutti” is an Italian musical term that means “all” or “together”. It is often used in sheet music to indicate that a section of the orchestra or choir should play or sing at the same time. In the context of this crossword clue, “Tutti, in English” is a hint that the answer is an English word that means the same thing as “tutti” in Italian. The correct answer is “ALL”.
37 Ones who fail to keep up appearances?: NO-SHOWS
This is a clever wordplay clue. “Keeping up appearances” usually means maintaining a certain level of decorum or respectability, especially in social situations. If someone “fails to keep up appearances”, they might be seen as sloppy, careless, or unreliable. The answer to this clue is “NO-SHOWS”, which refers to people who fail to appear or show up for a scheduled event, such as a meeting, appointment, or performance. In this context, “keeping up appearances” can be interpreted as showing up as expected.
39 Margaret of “Fire Island”: CHO
Margaret Cho is a comedian, actress, and writer who became famous in the 1990s for her stand-up comedy and TV appearances. “Fire Island” is a reference to a popular gay vacation spot in New York. Cho is openly bisexual and has been a longtime advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. In the context of this crossword clue, “Margaret of ‘Fire Island'” is a hint that the answer is a person’s name, and “CHO” is the correct name to fill in the blanks.
40 Potluck contribution: SIDE
A “potluck” is a type of meal where each person or family brings a dish to share with the group. The dishes are typically arranged on a table and everyone helps themselves to what they want. In this context, a “potluck contribution” is the dish that someone brings to the meal. The answer to this clue is “SIDE”, which is a type of dish that is meant to be eaten alongside a main course, such as a salad, vegetable, or bread.
42 Base for jam and clotted cream: SCONE
A “scone” is a type of pastry that originated in Scotland and is now popular in many parts of the world. Scones are typically made with flour, sugar, butter, and milk or cream, and can be flavored with a variety of ingredients like fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips. In the UK, scones are often served with jam and clotted cream.
43 Hershey toffee bar: SKOR
“SKOR” is a brand of chocolate bar made by the Hershey Company. It is a toffee-flavored candy bar that is coated in milk chocolate. SKOR bars have been around since the 1980s and are known for their crunchy, buttery texture and sweet, rich flavor.
44 *Is able to wrap one’s head around: HAS GOT A HANDLE ON
This is a wordplay clue that uses a common idiom. To “have a handle on” something means to understand it or have control over it. The image of “wrapping one’s head around” something also suggests the idea of understanding or comprehending. So the answer to this clue is “HAS GOT A HANDLE ON”.
47 Vessel in some Asian restaurant names: WOK
A “wok” is a type of cooking pan that originated in China and is commonly used in many parts of Asia. Woks are typically made of metal, such as carbon steel or cast iron, and have a curved shape that allows for quick and efficient stir-frying. In some Asian restaurant names, the word “wok” might be included to indicate that the restaurant specializes in stir-fry dishes or other types of Asian cuisine.
48 __ favor: POR
“POR favor” is a Spanish phrase that means “please”. In the context of this crossword clue, the answer is simply “POR”.
49 “Do __ disturb”: NOT
“Do not disturb” is a common phrase used to indicate that someone should not be interrupted or bothered. It is often used as a sign on a door or hotel room to let people know that the occupant wants privacy. In the context of this crossword clue, the answer is simply “NOT”.
50 [Shrug]: BEATS ME
This is a colloquial expression that is used to indicate that someone does not know the answer to a question or is unsure about something. The gesture of shrugging one’s shoulders is often used in conjunction with this expression. The answer to this clue is “BEATS ME”.
53 Boat pulling a fishing net: TRAWLER
A “trawler” is a type of fishing boat that is designed to pull a large fishing net through the water in order to catch fish. Trawlers can vary in size from small, single-person boats to large commercial vessels that can process and store large quantities of fish. In the context of this crossword clue, “boat pulling a fishing net” is a description that fits the idea of a trawler, and “TRAWLER” is the correct word to fill in the blanks.
57 Play part that follows an overture: ACT I
In a traditional three-act play, the play is divided into three main parts or acts. The first act usually follows the overture or opening music and is used to introduce the main characters and set the scene for the story. This crossword clue is looking for the answer “ACT I”, which is the name of the first part of a play.
58 Footnote abbr.: OP CIT
“Op cit” is a Latin phrase that stands for “opere citato”, which means “in the work cited”. It is a shorthand way of indicating that a particular source has been cited earlier in the text, and that the same source is being cited again in a footnote. In the context of this crossword clue, “Footnote abbr.” is a description that fits the abbreviation “OP CIT”, which is often used in academic writing.
60 Foolish talk: JIVE
“Jive” is a term that can be used to describe a type of talk or language that is characterized by exaggerated, insincere, or nonsensical statements. The word “jive” has its origins in African American slang from the 1920s and 1930s, and was later popularized in the jazz and swing music scenes. In the context of this crossword clue, “foolish talk” is a description that fits the idea of “JIVE”, which is the correct answer.
61 Nurses a sprain, say: ICES
When someone has a sprain or other type of injury that causes swelling and pain, it is often recommended that they apply ice to the affected area to help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. In this crossword clue, the word “ICES” is being used as a verb to describe the act of applying ice to an injury in order to help it heal.
62 Group of associates: POSSE
“Posse” is a term that can be used to describe a group of people who are associated with each other in some way, such as a group of friends, colleagues, or supporters. The word “posse” has its origins in Latin, where it originally referred to a group of people who were summoned to help enforce the law. In the context of this crossword clue, “group of associates” is a description that fits the idea of a “POSSE”, which is the correct answer.
63 “Make it snappy!” letters: ASAP
The letters “ASAP” stand for “as soon as possible”. This phrase is often used to urge someone to hurry or to complete a task quickly. In the context of this crossword clue, “Make it snappy!” is a phrase that fits the idea of “ASAP”, which is the correct answer.
64 Word: TERM
A “term” is a word or phrase that is used to describe or refer to something specific. In the context of this crossword clue, the word “WORD” is being used as a hint or clue for the answer, which is “TERM”.
65 Touches up, as text: EDITS
To “edit” text means to make changes to it in order to improve its quality, clarity, or accuracy. This can involve correcting spelling or grammar errors, rephrasing sentences, or removing unnecessary or redundant information. In the context of this crossword clue, “touches up, as text” is a description that fits the idea of “EDITS”, which is the correct answer.
66 Range components: Abbr.: MTNS
“MTNS” is an abbreviation for “mountains”. This crossword clue is looking for a plural noun that refers to the components or parts of a range of mountains, which are often named and identified by their individual peaks, valleys, and other features. The answer to this clue is “MTNS”, which is a commonly used abbreviation for “mountains”.
DOWN
1 Seize: NAB
To “nab” someone or something is to catch or seize it quickly or unexpectedly. This can be used in a variety of contexts, such as when a police officer catches a criminal or when someone grabs the last cookie from a plate. In the context of this crossword clue, “seize” is a synonym for “NAB”, which is the correct answer.
2 Smart __: wisenheimer: ALEC
A “smart alec” or “wiseacre” is a person who is sarcastic, witty, or overly clever in a way that can be irritating or obnoxious to others. In the context of this crossword clue, “smart __” is a description that fits the idea of “ALEC”, which is the correct answer.
3 Planning session offering: IDEA
An “idea” is a thought or concept that comes to mind and can be used to solve a problem, create something new, or plan a course of action. In the context of this crossword clue, “planning session offering” is a description that fits the idea of “IDEA”, which is the correct answer.
4 Comprehend without hearing, in a way: LIP-READ
To “lip-read” is to understand what someone is saying by watching their lips move, often because of hearing difficulties or noisy environments. In the context of this crossword clue, “comprehend without hearing, in a way” is a description that fits the idea of “LIP-READ”, which is the correct answer.
5 Up and about: ASTIR
If someone is “astir”, they are moving around or active, usually after a period of rest or inactivity. This can refer to someone who has just woken up, or someone who is getting ready to start their day or take on a task. In the context of this crossword clue, “up and about” is a description that fits the idea of “ASTIR”, which is the correct answer.
6 Has the guts (to): DARES
To “dare” to do something is to have the courage or audacity to try it, even if it involves risk or difficulty. In the context of this crossword clue, “has the guts (to)” is a description that fits the idea of “DARES”, which is the correct answer.
7 Noisy commotions: ADOS
An “ado” is a noisy, confusing, or disruptive commotion or fuss. This can refer to a situation where people are arguing, shouting, or making a lot of noise, or to a task or process that is overly complicated or difficult. In the context of this crossword clue, “noisy commotions” is a description that fits the idea of “ADOS”, which is the correct answer.
8 Farm machines: PLOWS
A “plow” is a farm machine that is used for turning over and breaking up soil in preparation for planting crops. There are many different types of plows, each with their own design and purpose, but they all work to loosen and cultivate the soil. In the context of this crossword clue, “farm machines” is a description that fits the idea of “PLOWS”, which is the correct answer.
9 Like a universal donor’s blood: TYPE-O
“Type O” blood is a blood type that is often referred to as the “universal donor” because it can be given to people with any blood type without triggering an immune response. This makes it a valuable resource for blood transfusions and other medical procedures. In the context of this crossword clue, “like a universal donor’s blood” is a description that fits the idea of “TYPE-O”, which is the correct answer.
10 Permanently: FOR GOOD
If something is done “for good”, it means that it is done permanently, with no intention of changing or reversing it. This can refer to a decision to leave a job, end a relationship, or move to a new location, among other things. In the context of this crossword clue, “permanently” is a description that fits the idea of “FOR GOOD”, which is the correct answer.
11 “I have a bad feeling about this”: UH-OH
“Uh-oh” is an expression that is often used to convey a sense of worry, apprehension, or concern about a situation. It can be used when something goes wrong unexpectedly, when someone is about to make a mistake, or when a situation seems to be escalating or getting out of control. In the context of this crossword clue, “I have a bad feeling about this” is a description that fits the idea of “UH-OH”, which is the correct answer.
12 Bouncy tune: LILT
A “lilt” is a musical quality or rhythm that is light, bouncy, and cheerful. It can refer to a specific type of melody or musical style, or to the overall feeling or mood created by a piece of music. In the context of this crossword clue, “bouncy tune” is a description that fits the idea of “LILT”, which is the correct answer.
13 Texting guffaw: LOL
“LOL” is an acronym that stands for “laughing out loud”, and it is often used in text messages and other forms of online communication to indicate that something is funny or amusing. It can also be used sarcastically or ironically to indicate that something is not actually funny. In the context of this crossword clue, “texting guffaw” is a description that fits the idea of “LOL”, which is the correct answer.
21 Boca __, Florida: RATON
“Boca Raton” is a city in South Florida, located on the Atlantic coast north of Fort Lauderdale. The name “Boca Raton” means “rat’s mouth” in Spanish, and it is thought to have been named after a rocky inlet that resembles a rat’s mouth. In the context of this crossword clue, “Boca __, Florida” is a description that fits the idea of “RATON”, which is the correct answer.
22 13-digit pub. codes: ISBNS
ISBNS are unique identifiers assigned to books, intended to facilitate the ordering and inventory of books by retailers, libraries, and publishers. The abbreviation stands for International Standard Book Number.
25 Fine hairs: CILIA
Cilia are tiny hair-like structures that protrude from cells and line the respiratory tract, where they help to move mucus and debris out of the lungs.
26 *Stands up to scrutiny: HOLDS WATER
Holds water is a phrase that means that something is sound, reliable, and can withstand critical examination or questioning.
28 Enumeration of life goals, on which one should also find the answers to the starred clues?: BUCKET LIST
A bucket list is a list of things that one wants to do or accomplish before they die. It usually includes things like traveling to certain places, achieving specific accomplishments, or experiencing particular events.
29 Hay fever sound: ACHOO
Achoo is an onomatopoeic word that represents the sound of a sneeze, which is a common symptom of hay fever or allergic rhinitis.
30 Shindig: A bash is a term for a lively social gathering or party.
31 __ Valuable Player: MOST
Most stands for Most Valuable Player, which is an award given in sports, typically to the player who has made the most significant contribution to the success of their team during a season or championship.
32 Sci-fi getaway option: ESCAPE POD
An escape pod is a small spacecraft designed to allow the crew of a larger spacecraft to escape in an emergency. They are often depicted in science fiction movies and TV shows as a last resort for escaping a damaged or destroyed spacecraft.
33 Grifter: CON ARTIST
A con artist is a person who deceives others for personal gain, often by posing as someone they’re not, using false promises, or manipulating emotions. They are also known as fraudsters or swindlers.
34 “Marry Me” actor Wilson: OWEN
Owen Wilson is an American actor known for his roles in movies like “Wedding Crashers,” “Zoolander,” and “The Royal Tenenbaums.” In “Marry Me,” he plays the character of Charlie Gilbert, a musician who is asked to marry a stranger on stage during his concert.
35 Unable to make up one’s mind: TORN
Torn is a word that describes the feeling of being unable to decide between two or more options, often because both options have their own advantages and disadvantages.
38 Jolly syllables: HO HO
Ho ho is an onomatopoeic phrase that represents the sound of laughter, often associated with Santa Claus and Christmas.
41 Self-absorption: EGOTISM
Egotism is a personality trait characterized by an excessive focus on oneself, often at the expense of others. Egotistical people tend to believe that they are superior to others and are often preoccupied with their own achievements and interests.
43 Smooth R&B tune: SLOW JAM
A slow jam is a type of romantic or soulful R&B song that typically has a slow tempo and a smooth melody. It is often associated with romantic evenings and slow dancing.
45 Gives the go-ahead: OKS
The verb “OK” is used to indicate approval or agreement. It can also be used as a noun or an adjective, and it originated as a shortening of the phrase “all correct.”
46 Subj. of Rosalind Franklin’s research: DNA
DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, a molecule that contains the genetic instructions used in the development and function of all known living organisms. Rosalind Franklin was a British chemist and X-ray crystallographer who made important contributions to the discovery of the structure of DNA, although she was not fully recognized for her work until after her death.
50 Can of worms, maybe: BAIT
A “can of worms” is a metaphorical phrase used to describe a situation that, once opened, creates a lot of complicated or difficult problems. It is often used to refer to a topic or issue that is controversial or sensitive.
51 Latin “behold”: ECCE
“Ecce” is a Latin word that means “behold” or “here is.” It is often used in Christian religious texts, where it is used to introduce a significant person or object.
52 Wallow in sadness: MOPE
To “mope” is to be in a state of low spirits or to feel sorry for oneself. It is often associated with feeling sad or disappointed, and it can involve spending time alone, feeling unmotivated, and lacking energy or enthusiasm.
54 Numbered hwys.: RTES
“RTES” is an abbreviation for “routes.” In the United States, many highways are assigned a number, typically consisting of one or two digits, that helps to identify their location and purpose.
55 Evan Williams bourbon: EVAN
Evan Williams is a brand of bourbon whiskey that is produced in Kentucky, USA. It is named after a historical figure who was one of the first distillers in the region, and it is known for its smooth, mellow flavor.
56 Gym count: REPS
“Reps” is short for “repetitions,” which refers to the number of times an exercise or weightlifting movement is performed. It is often used as a measure of strength or fitness progress.
59 Forensic series whose theme song is “Who Are You”: CSI
CSI is a television series that focuses on forensic science and crime investigation. It first aired in 2000 and has since become a cultural phenomenon, spawning multiple spin-offs and influencing popular perceptions of forensic science and crime-solving. The show’s theme song, “Who Are You” by The Who, has become synonymous with the series and is often recognized as one of the most iconic TV theme songs of all time.
Leave a Reply