54 Across

NYT Daily ? September 21, 2025

Phases, to Taylor Swift

Answer:

ERAS

Hint:

Think of how Taylor Swift categorizes her albums and musical styles—each one marks a distinct period in her career.

Explanation:

Taylor Swift famously refers to her different musical and personal periods as "eras," each tied to a specific album and aesthetic. The clue plays on the word "phases," which is a synonym for "eras," while nodding to Swift’s well-known branding of her career chapters. It’s a straightforward reference for fans who recognize her "Eras Tour" and the way she categorizes her work.

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General solving tip

Quoted clues often indicate a spoken phrase, interjection, or a title. Think of something you'd say out loud or see as a headline.

More tips → General Hints