2 Down

NYT Mini • August 1, 2025

Eggs on

Answer:

URGES

Hint:

**Hint:** "Encourages persistently, like a coach might do." *(This hint suggests the idea of pushing or motivating someone, which aligns with the meaning of "urges" without directly referencing the wordplay in the original clue.)*

Explanation:

Certainly! Here's a clear and concise explanation of how the clue "Eggs on" leads to the answer "URGES": **Explanation:** The clue "Eggs on" is a homophone-based wordplay. When spoken aloud, "eggs on" sounds like "urges on," where "urges" is the key word. The word "on" in the clue is a red herring or an extra word to mislead slightly, but the primary focus is on the homophonic connection between "eggs" and "urges." Thus, the answer "URGES" is derived from the sound-alike nature of the words, a common device in crossword puzzles to create clever and playful clues.

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General solving tip

If the clue shows an abbreviation (org., dept., inits.), the answer usually does too. Mirror the clue's form with initials or a shortened form.

More tips → General Hints