12 Down
NYT Daily • August 28, 2025
Major mess
Answer:
SNAFU
Hint:
Not available
Explanation:
Major mess" hints at a chaotic situation, and "SNAFU" is a military acronym that fits perfectly—it stands for "Situation Normal: All Fouled Up." The phrase originated in WWII slang to describe confusion or disorder, making it a direct match for the clue. The humor comes from the irony of calling a mess "normal," which is why it sticks in people’s minds.