The Independent's Mini Puzzles Clues and Solutions April 12, 2024
by J Divya | Updated Apr 12, 2024
If you enjoy solving daily crossword puzzles, try this one. Think of words related to the clue and choose the correct one as your answer. Feeling stuck on some clues? Don’t worry, we provide the answers along with explanations for each clue. Even if you don't manage to solve the puzzle, you can still scroll down to see the answers.
Fourth-to-last Greek letter(3)
Answer: PHI
In the Greek alphabet, "Phi" is the twenty-first letter. Since the Greek alphabet has 24 letters, "Phi" is indeed the fourth-to-last letter. The clue "fourth-to-last Greek letter" accurately describes "Phi" as the letter occurring in the fourth-to-last position in the Greek alphabet
Alphabetizes, e.g.(5)
Answer: SORTS
To "sort" means to arrange items systematically according to certain criteria, such as alphabetical order, numerical sequence, or categorical classification. Alphabetizing is a specific form of sorting, where items are arranged in alphabetical order based on their initial letters. The clue "alphabetizes, e.g." suggests the action of arranging items, which fits the concept of "sorts" as a verb meaning to arrange systematically.
Thread holder(5)
Answer: SPOOL
A spool is a cylindrical device used for holding and winding thread, wire, ribbon, or other materials. It typically consists of a central cylinder around which the thread is wound, with flanges or rims at the ends to keep the thread from slipping off. Spools are commonly used in sewing, weaving, and other textile crafts to store and dispense thread. The clue "thread holder" accurately describes a spool, as it is a device specifically designed for holding and dispensing thread.
_____ of regret(5)
Answer: TINGE
A tinge is a slight or trace amount of something, often with a hint of color, flavor, or emotion. In the context of the clue "_____ of regret," a tinge of regret refers to a subtle or faint feeling or sense of regret. It implies that regret is present, but not overwhelmingly so. The word "tinge" accurately captures the idea of a slight or subtle manifestation of regret.
In a funk(3)
Answer: SAD
While "sad" might not always be synonymous with being in a funk, it can certainly describe a state of low mood or emotional distress. When someone is in a funk, they may feel down, dejected, or melancholic, which aligns with the common understanding of feeling sad. So, "sad" is a fitting answer for the clue "in a funk."
"Hey ... over here!"(4)
Answer: PSST
"Psst" is an informal interjection used to attract someone's attention, typically in a secretive or conspiratorial manner. It's often used to call someone quietly or discreetly from a distance. The clue "'Hey ... over here!'" accurately describes the action of trying to get someone's attention in a hushed or stealthy manner, which fits the usage of "psst."
Arizona tribe(4)
Answer: HOPI
The Hopi are a Native American tribe indigenous to the Southwestern United States, primarily residing in northeastern Arizona. They are known for their rich cultural traditions, including religious ceremonies, art, and agriculture. The clue "Arizona tribe" directly points to the Hopi, as they are one of the prominent Native American tribes in the state of Arizona.
Hotel room amenities(5)
Answer: IRONS
In hotel rooms, "irons" typically refer to the small appliances used for pressing clothes to remove wrinkles. They are often provided as standard amenities in hotel rooms to accommodate guests' needs for maintaining their clothing during their stay. The clue "hotel room amenities" accurately describes irons, as they are commonly found in hotel rooms for the convenience of guests
Fraternity party attire(4)
Answer: TOGA
A toga is a traditional Roman garment consisting of a draped cloth worn as a loose-fitting garment, especially by men. In fraternity culture, toga parties are social events where attendees dress in togas, often as part of themed parties or celebrations. The clue "fraternity party attire" accurately describes a toga, as it is commonly associated with fraternity-themed parties and events.
Dogs pull it(4)
Answer: SLED
A sled is a vehicle typically consisting of a platform or runners that is pulled over snow or ice by dogs, horses, or humans. In contexts like dog sledding or mushing, sleds are commonly used for transportation or recreational purposes, with dogs harnessed to the sled to pull it along. The clue "dogs pull it" accurately describes a sled, as it refers to the vehicle that dogs are used to pull.
