The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times‘ revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player’s flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

Here are the clues and answers to NYT’s The Mini for Saturday, August 9, 2025:

Across

Friendly and pleasant

• The answer is Amiable.

Irritatingly self-important

• The answer is Pompous.

Cheerleaders’ accessories

• The answer is Pompoms.

Barely ___ out a living

• The answer is Eke.

“We haven’t decided yet,” on schedules

• The answer is TBA.

Radio exposure for a song

• The answer is Airplay.

___ of two evils

• The answer is Lesser.

Pancake mix ingredient

• The answer is Egg.

Down

Challenge to a court ruling

• The answer is Appeal.

Dodgers slugger Betts

• The answer is Mookie.

Deeply involve oneself (in)

• The answer is Immerse.

Smartphone download

• The answer is App.

Illegal copy

• The answer is Bootleg.

Kind of support for the lower back

• The answer is Lumbar.

English class assignment

• The answer is Essay.

French soccer club that won its first Champions League title in 2025, for short

• The answer is PSG.

If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.

Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Mini Crossword.

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