Mini hints and answer for July 15, 2026

Hints that get gradually more specific, then the answer if you need it. Nothing is revealed until you tap.

Clues10
Across5
Down5
ConstructorWyna Liu

Today’s Mini clues, hints & answers

Every clue from this puzzle with a hint and the answer behind separate buttons, so you only see what you need. Click a clue for its own page.

Across

1A
___ shrimp (classic oxymoron) (5)
Starts with J, ends with OJUMBO→
6A
Love, to a Frenchman (5)
Starts with A, ends with RAMOUR→
7A
Tale from Aesop (5)
Starts with F, ends with EFABLE→
8A
Friend, to a Spaniard (5)
Starts with A, ends with OAMIGO→
9A
Provokes, with "up" (5)
Starts with R, ends with SRILES→

Down

1D
Disney villain between Gaston and Scar (5)
Starts with J, ends with RJAFAR→
2D
The so-called "fifth taste" (5)
Starts with U, ends with IUMAMI→
3D
Gas brand that merged with Exxon (5)
Starts with M, ends with LMOBIL→
4D
Stick out noticeably (5)
Starts with B, ends with EBULGE→

How to solve the Mini

Click a square and type to fill the grid. Each clue is numbered and marked Across or Down; the answer runs from the numbered square in that direction. The timer starts when you open the puzzle, and completing the grid correctly stops it. There are no penalties for wrong letters, so experienced solvers fill fast and fix as they go.

Want the full method? Read our Mini strategy and tips, or check how to play the Mini on the hub.

Mini tips for tomorrow

  • Fill the long answers first. In a 5x5 grid the five-letter entries give you a letter in every crossing. Start there.
  • Read every clue once before typing. A quick scan usually reveals two or three gimmes that unlock the rest.
  • Trust the crossings. If an Across answer feels wrong, check the Down words through it rather than guessing again.

Done for today? Try The Midi, NYT Crossword, LA Times Crossword, all with hints first and answers behind a reveal.

Previous Mini puzzles

Mini FAQ

How many clues are in the Mini for July 15, 2026?+

10 clues: 5 Across and 5 Down. The puzzle was constructed by Wyna Liu and edited by Joel Fagliano.

What are some answers in today’s Mini?+

For example: ___ shrimp (classic oxymoron) (JUMBO); Love, to a Frenchman (AMOUR); Tale from Aesop (FABLE).

What time does the NYT Mini come out?+

The next day's Mini is released at 10:00 pm Eastern Time on weekdays and 6:00 pm on weekends.

Where can I find past Mini answers?+

Every past Mini on GameAnswers.com has its own page with hints and answers for every clue. Click any date above.

Today’s other puzzle answers

Mini guides