5 Down

NYT Mini • September 19, 2025

Environmentally friendly prefix

Answer:

ECO

Hint:

Think of the first part of words like "system" or "tourism" that focus on nature and sustainability. It’s often paired with concepts that aim to protect the planet.

Explanation:

The clue asks for a prefix meaning "environmentally friendly," which is a common shorthand in words like "ecology" or "economy" when discussing sustainability. "Eco" fits perfectly because it’s derived from the Greek oikos (house or environment) and appears in terms like "eco-friendly" or "ecosystem." There’s no wordplay here—it’s a straightforward definition pointing to a well-known three-letter prefix. Think of products labeled "eco" to signal they’re green or nature-conscious.

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General solving tip

'Perhaps,' 'maybe,' or 'e.g.' usually signal an example, not the category name. You're looking for one member of a broader set.

More tips → General Hints