Rena Cohen’s Latest New York Times Crossword Puzzle

The latest New York Times Crossword, crafted by Rena Cohen, showcases her exceptional puzzle-making talent. Since her debut in 2024, Cohen has gained recognition for her clever and engaging themes. Today’s puzzle continues this trend, cleverly combining wordplay and thematic coherence while engaging both novice and seasoned solvers alike.

The Unique Theme of Today’s Puzzle

In the absence of a reveal clue, the puzzle’s main theme is encapsulated in the phrase “ON MESSAGE,” found at 17A. Each themed entry highlights common expressions related to communication, seamlessly integrating everyday phrases into the crossword format. Notable examples include “Eye on the ball” and “Get under it!” which serve as effective CATCH PHRASES (20A), playing on the idea of catching a ball.

Exploring More Themed Entries

Additionally, the puzzle introduces a whimsical touch through the listing of “WEASEL WORDS” (35A), which includes terms like [Mink, ferret, stoat]. These clever descriptions of weasels add a layer of playful language to the puzzle. Other entertaining entries include FINISH LINES (44A), associated with expressions such as “Ta-da” and “All done,” often exclaimed upon completing a task.

Breaking Down Tricky Clues

Like every good crossword, today’s puzzle includes its fair share of tricky clues that can confound even the most experienced solvers. For instance, 9A presents a clue for a [Good thing to bring to a competition], which leads to the answer A-GAME. This tricky wordplay challenges the solver to distinguish between “a game” and the actual phrase.

Another Challenging Entry

Another noteworthy clue is found at 53A, where [Crafters’ knives] refers to X-ACTO. A common point of confusion arises from the spelling, often mistakenly thought to be “exacto.” This highlights the intricate details that make crossword puzzles both challenging and rewarding.

The Craft of Puzzle Construction

Cohen’s commitment to crafting accessible yet challenging puzzles is evident in her work. Although she has focused primarily on Monday and Tuesday puzzles, this choice is by no means an indication of simplicity. Instead, it showcases her versatility as a constructor. The balance of beginner-friendly hints with clever wordplay creates a captivating experience for solvers at all levels.

Conclusion

Rena Cohen’s latest New York Times Crossword puzzle is a testament to her skill in puzzle design. By combining engaging themes with tricky clues, she ensures that each crossword offers both a challenge and enjoyment. Whether you’re new to crosswords or a seasoned veteran, this puzzle provides an excellent opportunity to sharpen your skills while having fun.