Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Friday May 19th 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 College-level HS English course : AP LIT
Answer: AP LIT stands for Advanced Placement Literature, which is a rigorous high school English course equivalent to a college-level literature class. It is typically taken by advanced students who wish to earn college credit while still in high school.
6 __ and drop : DRAG
Answer: The phrase “drag and drop” refers to a method of moving or rearranging items on a computer screen by clicking and holding on an object, dragging it to a new location, and then releasing the mouse button to drop it there. This technique is commonly used in user interfaces to manipulate files, folders, icons, and other visual elements.
10 Party loot : SWAG
Answer: In the context of parties, “swag” refers to free promotional items or goodies given away as part of an event or gathering. These can include branded merchandise like T-shirts, keychains, pens, or other small items that serve as souvenirs or promotional material.
14 Place for a bench warmer? : SAUNA
Answer: A sauna is a room or enclosure designed for heat sessions and relaxation. In this crossword clue, “bench warmer” is a play on words, as a sauna typically has benches where people can sit or lie down while enjoying the heat and steam.
15 Bag : EARN
Answer: In this crossword clue, “bag” is used as a verb meaning to achieve or obtain something. To “bag” something can mean to acquire it or secure it, often through effort or accomplishment. In this context, “earn” is a suitable answer, as it means to gain or obtain something through work, skill, or merit.
16 Melodramatic sigh : AH ME
Answer: “Ah me” is an exclamation that expresses a sigh of longing, sadness, or regret. It is often used in literature or dramatic contexts to convey a sense of emotional distress or lamentation.
17 Building a fire without any charcoal or lighter fluid? : STICKY SITUATION
Answer: A “sticky situation” refers to a difficult or challenging circumstance that is hard to resolve. In this crossword clue, the phrase is used as a play on words. Without charcoal or lighter fluid, building a fire becomes a challenging task, making it a metaphorical “sticky situation” where the person faces difficulty in achieving their goal.
20 Brain wave readout, for short : EEG
Answer: EEG stands for electroencephalogram, which is a test that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain. It is commonly used in medical and research settings to diagnose and monitor conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and brain abnormalities.
21 Not bumpy : EVEN
Answer: “Even” in this context refers to a surface that is smooth or level, without any irregularities or bumps. It can also describe a situation or distribution that is balanced or equal, without any significant variations or disparities.
22 Hindu spiritual writing : SUTRA
Answer: Sutras are concise and aphoristic texts or verses that contain key principles or teachings in Hinduism. They are often associated with philosophical, spiritual, or religious concepts and provide concise guidelines or aphorisms to guide practitioners on their spiritual journey or in their pursuit of knowledge.
23 Mountain of comfy shoes? : SLIPPERY SLOPE
Answer: The phrase “slippery slope” refers to a situation or course of action that, once initiated, may lead to increasingly problematic or negative consequences. In this crossword clue, it is used as a play on words, where the “mountain” represents a heap or large quantity of “comfy shoes,” which symbolizes a situation that can easily lead to more challenges or difficulties, similar to navigating a slippery slope.
27 Only cardinal direction not in a state name : EAST
Answer: The cardinal directions are north, south, east, and west. In this crossword clue, “east” is highlighted as it is the only cardinal direction that does not appear in the name of any U.S. state. States like North Carolina and South Dakota have “north” and “south” in their names, respectively, while “west” appears in the name of several states, such as West Virginia.
28 Big lug : OAF
Answer: The term “oaf” is used to describe a person who is clumsy, slow-witted, or awkward in their movements or behavior. It refers to someone who is perceived as lacking grace or finesse, often due to their physical size or a lack of social skills.
29 Dirty word? : MUD
Answer: In this crossword clue, “dirty word” is used figuratively, not literally. It refers to a term or expression that carries negative connotations or is considered offensive or inappropriate in certain contexts. In this case, the answer “mud” is a play on words, as it can be associated with dirt or filth, which is commonly considered “dirty.”
32 Mesopotamian region where cuneiform was invented : SUMER
Answer: Sumer was an ancient civilization located in Mesopotamia, which is the region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in present-day Iraq. Sumer is known as one of the earliest civilizations in human history, and it was in this region that cuneiform, one of the earliest known writing systems, was developed.
35 Missay, say : ERR
Answer: “Err” is a verb that means to make a mistake or to be mistaken. In this crossword clue, “missay” is used as a play on words to describe the act of making an error in speech or communication.
36 Prefix with dynamic : AERO-
Answer: The prefix “aero-” is derived from the Greek word “aer,” meaning air. It is commonly used to indicate a relationship with air, flight, or aviation. When combined with “dynamic,” it forms the term “aerodynamic,” which refers to the study of how objects move through the air and the forces involved in such motion.
37 Artichokes eaten first thing in the morning? : HEARTY BREAKFAST
Answer: In this crossword clue, the phrase “hearty breakfast” is used figuratively. Artichokes are known for their toughness and require some effort to eat due to their spiky leaves and hard outer layers. Eating artichokes early in the morning can be seen as a metaphor for starting the day with a challenging or substantial task, similar to consuming a hearty breakfast to provide energy and sustenance for the day ahead.
41 Potato spots : EYES
Answer: The term “eyes” refers to the small, indentations or depressions found on the surface of a potato. These spots are the locations where the potato’s sprouts emerge. In the context of this crossword clue, “eyes” is used metaphorically to describe the small spots or markings on a potato’s surface.
42 Dawn goddess : EOS
Answer: In Greek mythology, Eos is the goddess of the dawn. She is often depicted as a beautiful and radiant figure who rises from the ocean each morning to announce the arrival of the sun. Eos is associated with new beginnings, light, and the transition from darkness to daylight.
43 Specks : IOTAS
Answer: “Iotas” refers to tiny or minuscule specks or particles. It originates from the Greek letter “iota,” which is the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet. In this crossword clue, “specks” is used as a synonym for “iotas,” highlighting their small size or insignificance.
Expand on these crossword clues and answers:
44 Gesture-based communication syst. : ASL
45 Ancient : OLD
46 Designer Gucci : ALDO
48 “Should this potted plant go in the dining room window or the bedroom window?,” e.g. : SILLY QUESTION
54 Many, casually : LOTSA
56 “High Drama” singer Lambert : ADAM
57 Premier __: French wine designation : CRU
ChatGPT
44 Gesture-based communication syst. : ASL
Answer: ASL stands for American Sign Language. It is a complete and natural language used primarily by individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate through a combination of hand movements, facial expressions, and body language. ASL has its own grammar and syntax and is recognized as a distinct language.
45 Ancient : OLD
Answer: In this crossword clue, “ancient” is used as a synonym for “old.” It refers to something that is from a distant past or a time long ago. It suggests that the subject being described has a significant age or has existed for a considerable period of time.
46 Designer Gucci : ALDO
Answer: The correct answer for this clue should be “Alessandro Michele,” not “Aldo.” Alessandro Michele is an Italian fashion designer who has served as the creative director of Gucci since 2015. He has played a significant role in revitalizing and redefining the brand’s aesthetic, introducing eclectic and eccentric designs.
48 “Should this potted plant go in the dining room window or the bedroom window?,” e.g. : SILLY QUESTION
Answer: “Silly question” refers to a query that is considered trivial, unimportant, or lacking in seriousness. In this context, the question posed about where to place a potted plant is being perceived as silly because it is a matter of personal preference and doesn’t carry significant consequences. It’s a lighthearted or humorous way to describe a less consequential decision.
54 Many, casually : LOTSA
Answer: “Lotsa” is a casual or colloquial way of saying “a lot” or “many.” It is an abbreviated form that emphasizes a large quantity or number of something. It is often used in informal speech or writing to convey informality or a sense of abundance.
56 “High Drama” singer Lambert : ADAM
Answer: Adam Lambert is an American singer, songwriter, and actor. He gained widespread recognition as the runner-up on the eighth season of American Idol in 2009. “High Drama” is not a song title associated with Adam Lambert. It appears to be an incorrect clue or an oversight.
57 Premier __: French wine designation : CRU
Answer: In the context of French wine, “cru” refers to a specific vineyard or growing area recognized for producing high-quality wine. It is a designation that signifies the superior quality of wine produced from that particular region. The term “premier cru” is used to denote the top-ranked vineyards or growing areas in terms of quality within a wine region.
58 Relinquishing one’s noble title? : EARLY RETIREMENT
Answer: In this crossword clue, “relinquishing one’s noble title” is used figuratively to describe the act of retiring early from a professional career. The phrase suggests that retiring from work can be seen as a comparable action to voluntarily giving up a prestigious or esteemed position, similar to a noble title.
62 Oxford, but not Cambridge : SHOE
Answer: This clue is a play on words. While “Oxford” typically refers to the University of Oxford, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, in this context, it refers to Oxford shoes. Oxford shoes are a style of low-heeled, lace-up shoes with a closed throat and distinctive side panels. The clue implies that the answer is related to Oxford shoes, highlighting the difference between Oxford and Cambridge in this particular context.
63 Quod __ demonstrandum : ERAT
Answer: “Quod erat demonstrandum” is a Latin phrase that translates to “which was to be demonstrated” or “thus it has been proven.” It is commonly abbreviated as “Q.E.D.” and is used to conclude or emphasize the completion of a proof or argument in mathematics or logic.
64 Hilarious : A RIOT
Answer: “A riot” is an idiomatic expression used to describe something that is extremely funny, entertaining, or uproarious. It suggests that the subject being described is highly amusing and can provoke uncontrollable laughter or a strong sense of amusement.
65 Basic math homework : SUMS
Answer: In the context of math, “sums” refers to the calculations or problems that involve adding numbers together. It represents the basic arithmetic operation of addition and can be used to refer to the practice or exercises typically given as homework to reinforce addition skills.
66 Autos : CARS
Answer: In this crossword clue, “autos” is used as a synonym for “cars.” “Autos” is a shortened form of the word “automobiles,” which refers to motor vehicles designed for transportation on roads. It is a common term used to describe passenger vehicles used for personal transportation.
67 Full of fluff : LINTY
Answer: “Linty” means covered or filled with lint, which refers to small fibers or pieces of material that accumulate as debris or fuzz. When something is described as “linty,” it suggests that it is covered or filled with such fibers or fluff, often indicating a lack of cleanliness or tidiness.
DOWN
1 Pack animals : ASSES
Answer: In this crossword clue, “asses” refers to pack animals, specifically domesticated donkeys. Donkeys have historically been used as beasts of burden, capable of carrying heavy loads on their backs. They are known for their strength, endurance, and surefootedness, making them suitable for transporting goods in various terrains.
2 “Lion” Oscar nominee Dev : PATEL
Answer: Dev Patel is a British actor who gained recognition for his role in the film “Slumdog Millionaire.” He received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Oscar for his performance in the movie “Lion.” Patel has continued to establish himself as a talented actor in various film and television projects.
3 “Super Mario” brother : LUIGI
Answer: Luigi is a fictional character in the popular video game franchise “Super Mario.” He is the younger brother of the main protagonist, Mario, and often serves as the second player in multiplayer games. Luigi is known for his distinctive green outfit and has become an iconic character in the world of gaming.
4 Fortune rival : INC
Answer: “Inc” is an abbreviation for “incorporated,” which is a legal designation used in the United States and some other countries to indicate that a business is a separate legal entity. The clue suggests that “Fortune,” possibly referring to the Fortune 500 list, has companies that are rivals or competitors to those designated as “inc.”
5 Share : TAKE PART
Answer: In this crossword clue, “share” is used to mean participating or taking part in something. “Take part” implies being involved or engaged in an activity, event, or endeavor alongside others. It suggests actively participating or contributing to a shared experience or goal.
6 Antarctica, for one : DESERT
Answer: Antarctica is a continent located in the southernmost part of the Earth. It is classified as a desert due to its extremely low precipitation levels. Despite being covered in ice and snow, Antarctica receives minimal rainfall or liquid precipitation. It is considered the largest desert in the world based on its aridity.
7 Unlike a 6-Down : RAINY
Answer: In this crossword clue, “rainy” is used as the opposite or antonym of a desert. It indicates that the weather conditions in a rainy environment are different from the dry conditions found in a desert. The clue plays on the contrast between the lack of rainfall in a desert (6-Down) and the abundance of rain in a rainy environment.
8 Quilting, e.g. : ART
Answer: Quilting is considered a form of art. It involves sewing together layers of fabric to create a quilt, which is a thick, padded textile often used as a blanket or decorative item. Quilts can be intricately designed and crafted, showcasing the creativity, skill, and artistic expression of the quilter.
9 Serengeti grazer : GNU
Answer: A gnu, also known as a wildebeest, is a type of large African antelope found in the Serengeti and other parts of eastern and southern Africa. Gnus are known for their distinctive appearance, with a muscular body, a shaggy mane, and curved horns. They are herbivorous grazers, feeding on grasses and other vegetation in the savannah.
10 Broke out of a slump? : SAT UP
Answer: In this crossword clue, “broke out of a slump” is used figuratively to describe the act of sitting up from a slouched or hunched position. The phrase suggests a change in posture or body position, which can symbolize breaking free from a period of inactivity, stagnation, or low performance, similar to breaking out of a slump in sports or other endeavors.
11 Poultry choice : WHITE MEAT
Answer: Poultry refers to domesticated birds raised for meat or eggs, such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese. In this crossword clue, “white meat” refers to the lighter-colored and generally leaner meat found in poultry, particularly the breast meat. It is often considered a healthier or lower-fat option compared to darker meat, such as the thighs or drumsticks.
12 Omnia vincit __ : AMOR
Answer: “Omnia vincit amor” is a Latin phrase that translates to “love conquers all” in English. It is a famous quote from the Roman poet Virgil’s work “Eclogues” and has been widely referenced in literature, art, and popular culture. The phrase conveys the idea that love is a powerful force that can overcome obstacles, challenges, and differences.
13 Actress Rowlands : GENA
Answer: Gena Rowlands is an American actress known for her prolific career in film, television, and stage. She has collaborated extensively with her late husband, director John Cassavetes, and is recognized for her emotionally powerful performances. Rowlands has received multiple accolades, including several Academy Award nominations, and is celebrated for her contributions to independent cinema.
18 Part of YSL : YVES
Answer: YSL refers to Yves Saint Laurent, a prominent French fashion designer. In this crossword clue, “Yves” represents the first name of the designer. Yves Saint Laurent is renowned for his contributions to haute couture and is considered one of the most influential fashion figures of the 20th century.
19 Starting on : AS OF
Answer: “As of” is a phrase used to indicate the starting point or beginning of a particular period or time. It suggests that the subject being described is effective from a specific point forward and can be used to reference the initiation of an event, action, or condition.
24 Equals : PEERS
Answer: In this crossword clue, “equals” refers to peers. Peers are individuals who are considered equal in status, rank, or age to others within a specific group or social context. Peers typically share common characteristics, experiences, or qualifications, which contribute to their equality within the given setting.
25 Like some subjects : SORE
Answer: In this crossword clue, “sore” is used to describe certain subjects or topics that evoke emotional or physical discomfort, sensitivity, or resentment. It suggests that the subjects being referred to are difficult, touchy, or unpleasant to discuss or deal with.
26 “The Practice” actress __ Flynn Boyle : LARA
Answer: Lara Flynn Boyle is an American actress known for her role as Assistant District Attorney Helen Gamble on the television series “The Practice.” She has also appeared in various other films and TV shows throughout her career. Boyle’s performances have garnered critical acclaim, and she has established herself as a versatile and talented actress.
30 __ Minor : URSA
Answer: In this crossword clue, “Ursa” refers to the constellation Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Bear or the Little Dipper. Ursa Minor contains the North Star, Polaris, which is often used as a navigational reference point due to its proximity to the celestial North Pole.
31 Colon units : DOTS
Answer: In this crossword clue, “dots” refers to the punctuation marks commonly used to indicate a list or enumeration in writing. Dots, also known as periods or full stops, are placed after each item in a list to separate them and indicate a pause or completion.
32 __ butter : SHEA
Answer: Shea butter is a fat extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree. It is commonly used in cosmetics, lotions, and skincare products due to its moisturizing and nourishing properties. Shea butter is known for its smooth and creamy texture and is often used as a natural ingredient in beauty and personal care products.
33 One-eighties : UEYS
Answer: In this crossword clue, “one-eighties” refers to making a U-turn or executing a 180-degree turn while driving. “Ueys” is a colloquial term used to describe the act of turning a vehicle completely around to face the opposite direction.
34 Violent vortex : MAELSTROM
Answer: A maelstrom is a powerful and violent whirlpool or vortex in a body of water, typically caused by the meeting of conflicting currents. It is often associated with tumultuous or chaotic conditions and is used metaphorically to describe a situation or event that is intense, turbulent, or destructive.
35 Triage ctrs. : ERS
Answer: In this crossword clue, “ERS” is an abbreviation for emergency rooms. Emergency rooms, often referred to as emergency departments, are medical facilities that provide immediate care for individuals with severe or life-threatening injuries or illnesses. They are staffed with medical professionals who triage patients based on the severity of their conditions and provide urgent medical treatment.
36 In the offing : AFOOT
Answer: “In the offing” is an idiomatic expression that means something is about to happen or is likely to occur in the near future. It suggests that an event or situation is imminent or in the process of being prepared or planned. “Afoot” emphasizes that the event or development is actively underway or in progress.
38 Give a shout-out? : YELL
Answer: In this crossword clue, “give a shout-out” is used figuratively to mean yelling or making a loud vocal expression. “Yell” refers to a loud, sharp cry or shout, often used to attract attention, express excitement, or convey a message forcefully.
39 Word with surf or shop : BODY
Answer: In this crossword clue, “body” is a word that can be combined with “surf” or “shop” to form compound words. For example, “surfing” refers to the activity of riding ocean waves using a surfboard, and “body shop” refers to a business that repairs and restores damaged vehicles.
40 Restaurant offering that may have an age limit : KIDS’ MEAL
Answer: A kids’ meal is a menu option typically designed for children at restaurants. It often includes a smaller portion of food, specifically tailored to suit the preferences and nutritional needs of younger diners. Some kids’ meals may have an age limit, as they are intended for children rather than adults.
45 Skin care brand : OLAY
Answer: Olay is a well-known brand specializing in skincare products. They offer a wide range of products, including moisturizers, cleansers, serums, and anti-aging treatments. Olay is recognized for its focus on promoting healthy skin and addressing various skincare concerns.
46 Open-book exams? : AUDITS
Answer: In this crossword clue, “open-book exams” is used as a play on words. Typically, “open-book exams” refer to tests or assessments where students are allowed to refer to their textbooks or other materials during the examination. However, in this context, “audits” refers to the examination of financial records or accounts by an independent entity, such as an auditor or auditing firm.
47 Prolific TV producer Norman : LEAR
Answer: Norman Lear is a highly regarded American television producer, writer, and director. He is known for creating and producing numerous iconic television shows, including “All in the Family,” “The Jeffersons,” “Maude,” and “Good Times.” Lear’s work has made a significant impact on the television industry, addressing social and political issues through groundbreaking and thought-provoking programming.
49 Caribbean spots : ISLES
Answer: In this crossword clue, “isles” refers to islands in the Caribbean region. The Caribbean is composed of numerous islands, known for their beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and diverse cultures. These islands attract tourists from around the world, offering a range of vacation destinations with unique landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich history and traditions.
50 2022 FIFA World Cup host : QATAR
Answer: Qatar is a country located in the Middle East. In 2022, it will be the host nation for the FIFA World Cup, one of the most prestigious international soccer tournaments. The World Cup brings together teams from around the globe to compete for the title of world champion. Hosting the event is a significant undertaking that involves constructing state-of-the-art stadiums and infrastructure to accommodate the matches and spectators.
51 Strand during a ski trip, say : ICE IN
Answer: In this crossword clue, “ice in” refers to getting stranded or unable to proceed due to icy conditions during a ski trip or similar winter activities. When the snow and ice make travel difficult or dangerous, individuals may become stuck or immobilized, requiring assistance or a change in plans until the conditions improve.
52 ” … never mind, then” : OR NOT
Answer: The phrase “or not” is used to indicate a reconsideration or cancellation of a previous statement or suggestion. It is often added as an afterthought to express a change of opinion, decision, or intention. In this crossword clue, the phrase is used as a response to indicate a reversal or withdrawal of a previous statement or proposition.
53 Like brown butter : NUTTY
Answer: Brown butter refers to butter that has been melted and cooked until it develops a rich, nutty aroma and flavor. It is made by heating butter over low heat until the milk solids start to brown, resulting in a deep, toasty taste. The clue suggests that brown butter has a nutty flavor profile, which adds a distinctive and savory element to dishes when used in cooking or baking.
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