23 Down

NYT Daily • August 2, 2025

Whiffs

Answer:

HINTS

Hint:

["Here’s a helpful hint for the clue \"Whiffs\":\n\n*\"They might be subtle or barely noticeable, but they can guide you in the right direction.\"*\n\nThis hint suggests the idea of something faint or suggestive without directly repeating the original clue or giving away the answer. It nudges the solver toward thinking of \"hints\" by emphasizing their subtle, guiding nature."]

Explanation:

The clue "Whiffs" leading to the answer "HINTS" relies on a clever play on words and meanings. 1. **Direct Meaning**: A "whiff" can mean a slight smell or odor, but it can also imply a faint trace or suggestion of something—synonymous with a "hint." 2. **Wordplay**: The word "whiffs" sounds like "whiffs" (as in smelling something), but in this context, it’s used to suggest the idea of subtle clues or hints. 3. **Double Meaning**: The clue uses the secondary meaning of "whiff" (a slight indication) to lead to "hints," which are subtle suggestions or clues themselves. Thus, the answer "HINTS" fits because a "whiff" can metaphorically represent a hint or suggestion.

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