5 Down
NYT Mini • September 8, 2025
Overblown promotion
Answer:
HYPE
Hint:
Think of the buzz created before a big movie or product launch—often more exciting than the actual thing.
Explanation:
Overblown promotion" hints at exaggerated publicity, which is exactly what "hype" means—it’s the buzz or excitement built up around something, often more than it deserves. The word "overblown" reinforces the idea of something being inflated or exaggerated, matching how "hype" describes over-the-top marketing or attention. It’s a straightforward definition clue with no hidden wordplay, just a direct nod to how things get talked up beyond reality.