NY Times Crossword
August 2, 2018
Xan Vongsathorn (adapted)

The answers to the clues in this clever puzzle share an unusual quality. Can you determine what it is?

1. Slight coloring  
2. It's a blast
3. Giggle syllable
4. Yearning
5. One in the know
6. It has value
7. Evidence of a little spasm
8. It can take root in wet places
9. Words heard when breaking up
10. Something at the end of a hook
11. Rap music genre or the highest point
12. Sunbeam or a carrier for a certain hot drink

HINTS:
A. Each clue has two valid answers that differ by a single letter.
B. The two interchangeable letters are H and T.

Answers:

1. HINT or TINT
2. HOOT or TOOT
3. HEE or TEE
4. WISHFUL or WISTFUL
5. HIPSTER or TIPSTER
6. SHOCK or STOCK
7. HIC or TIC
8. RUSH or RUST
9. HAHA or TATA
10. FISH or FIST
11. HIPHOP or  TIPTOP
12. HEAT RAY or TEA TRAY