23 Across
NYT Daily • September 8, 2025
Oasis setting
Answer:
DESERT
Hint:
Think of the vast, arid landscape where mirages often appear, offering a false promise of water to weary travelers.
Explanation:
An oasis is a fertile spot in the middle of a dry, barren area, so the "setting" or place where you'd find one is a desert. The clue plays on the idea of contrast—oases stand out because they’re surrounded by arid land. It’s a straightforward definition with no hidden wordplay, just a nod to how oases and deserts are naturally linked. Think of it like a mirage’s favorite neighborhood.