15 Across
NYT Mini • August 22, 2025
Top-notch, informally
Answer:
PRIMO
Hint:
Think of how you might describe the best slice of pizza in just one slangy word.
Explanation:
"Top-notch, informally" is a straightforward clue asking for a slang term meaning excellent or first-rate. "Primo" fits perfectly—it’s a casual word borrowed from Italian (short for primario) that’s been adopted in English to describe something of the highest quality. The clue hints at informality, so you’d avoid formal synonyms like "superior" and go for the more laid-back "primo" instead. Think of it like calling a top-tier pizza or a great deal "primo" in everyday conversation.