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.

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