38 Across

NYT Daily • September 7, 2025

Low-quality paper?

Answer:

RAG

Hint:

Think of the material often recycled to make rough, inexpensive paper—it’s also a term for a worn-out piece of cloth.

Explanation:

Rag" is a type of cheap, rough paper made from recycled fabric scraps, which is why it fits "low-quality paper." The clue also plays on the word "rag" meaning something shabby or inferior, reinforcing the idea of poor quality. It’s a straightforward definition with a slight nod to the material’s humble origins.

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