NY Times Crossword

November 20, 2025

Adam Wagner

 

The five clues below and their answers will make sense according to a certain pattern that is hinted at by the last clue.

 

1. Cubing/dicing needs - SKINDIVES

2. Turns on - BETTER DAYS  

3. Make, as money - AMBIENT 

4. Ensnare - STAR MAP

5. Fops - DAMNED LIES

6. He doesn't belong 

 

Answer to Clue 6:

Odd man out

 

Answers to Clues 1-5:

 

Each clue answer contains a three-letter man's name separated by one letter. For the answers to make sense, the man's name does not belong. By removing it - taking the odd (3-letter) man out, the answers will make sense.  

 

1. Cubing/dicing needs - sKiNdIVES  - KNIVES (sid)

2. Turns on - BEtTeR dAYS (ted) - BETRAYS (ted) 

3. Make, as money - aMbIeNT (abe) - MINT (abe)