12 Down

NYT Daily ? September 21, 2025

Filing services?

Answer:

MANICURES

Hint:

Think of what you might get at a nail salon to smooth and shape the edges—it’s not just for looks!

Explanation:

This clue plays on the double meaning of "filing." While it sounds like organizing documents, it’s actually hinting at nail filing—a key part of a manicure. The question mark signals a pun, so "filing services" cleverly points to the beauty treatment where nails get filed and shaped. Think of a salon visit instead of an office task.

More Clues from This Puzzle

15 Down

5 letters

Make a big step, perhaps

25 Across

4 letters

Pro ___

32 Across

9 letters

Kicked off, as a business

51 Across

3 letters

Small square

General solving tip

A question mark usually flags wordplay or a non-literal reading. Expect a pun, a twist, or a definition that's one step removed from the surface meaning.

More tips → General Hints