The New York Times’ daily crossword experience has a delightful counterpart known as The Mini, a compact crossword puzzle that offers a quick yet engaging challenge. While the traditional crossword requires a greater depth of knowledge and time commitment, The Mini allows players to test their speed and agility in wordplay.
For fans of short puzzles, The Mini on January 4, 2026, presented a series of clever clues that showcased its fun and capricious nature. One popular clue referenced Ron Swanson’s favorite food on the beloved show “Parks and Recreation,” with the answer being “Bacon.” Other clues included various delights such as “Olive,” which refers to the fruit available in black and green varieties depending on ripeness, and “Lover,” the term for a paramour.
Players were also presented with the term “Third,” denoting bronze medal position, and “Salty,” a slang expression used to describe feelings of resentment. The down clues featured answers like “Bolts,” related to streaks of lightning, “Aloha,” a traditional Hawaiian greeting, “Civil,” which represents the ‘C’ in A.C.L.U., “Overt,” meaning in the open, and “Nerdy,” denoting someone knowledgeable and proud of it.
For those seeking more puzzle challenges beyond The Mini, Mashable’s games hub offers a diverse array of puzzles, including Mahjong and Sudoku. Whether you want to engage in a quick round of The Mini or explore other puzzle offerings, there is plenty to keep your mind entertained.
Players can easily stay connected with the latest entertainment news and stay updated on puzzles through Mashable’s Top Stories newsletter, which keeps enthusiasts informed while they enjoy their daily routine. The world of puzzles continues to expand, providing enjoyable and stimulating experiences for all lovers of word games.