42 Down

NYT Daily ? September 14, 2025

Dazed and confused

Answer:

SPACEY

Hint:

Think of an Oscar-winning actor known for his roles in American Beauty and The Usual Suspects—his last name fits this state of mind.

Explanation:

"Dazed and confused" hints at the answer "SPACEY" by playing on two meanings. First, it describes someone acting disoriented or out of it—like being "spacy." Second, it subtly references actor Kevin Spacey, who starred in the 1993 film Dazed and Confused, tying the clue to pop culture. The wordplay blends a literal definition with a clever nod to his name.

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General solving tip

Match the clue's grammar: plural with plural, past with past. If the clue ends in 's' or uses a past-tense verb, mirror that form in the entry.

More tips → General Hints