59 Across

NYT Daily • September 5, 2025

Gently presses, as a gas pedal

Answer:

EASES ON

Hint:

Think of how a driver might gradually increase speed without jerking the car forward, especially when starting from a stop. The phrase suggests a smooth, controlled action often used in cautious driving.

Explanation:

The phrase "gently presses" hints at a light, gradual action, which fits "eases" as a verb meaning to apply something softly. "On" is added directly to complete the common expression "eases on," specifically used when someone slowly depresses a gas pedal to accelerate smoothly. The clue plays on the literal action of driving while keeping the language simple and idiomatic.

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