25 Across

NYT Daily • August 15, 2025

Some like it hot

Answer:

SAUCE

Hint:

It’s the spicy or savory liquid that can make a dish sing.

Explanation:

The phrase "Some like it hot" is a playful nod to the 1959 Marilyn Monroe film, but here it’s hinting at something spicy in a literal sense. "Hot" suggests heat or spiciness, and when people say they like it hot, they’re often talking about adding a fiery kick—like a condiment. The answer "SAUCE" fits because sauces (think hot sauce, chili sauce, or salsa) are the go-to way to turn up the heat in food. It’s a simple pun where the clue’s cultural reference leads to a tasty, everyday word.

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