Wordplay
Wordplay Notes
For a blank clue, the missing entry should make the full phrase sound natural, not merely match a dictionary definition.
NYT Crossword
Asia's shrinking ___ Sea NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
Read the phrase aloud and look for a 4-letter entry that completes the blank naturally.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
Classify this as a fill-in-the-blank and verify that the 4 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
- The blank is doing most of the work here. Look for a 4-letter entry that completes the phrase naturally.
- The answer slot has 4 letters, which narrows the clue to a specific grid shape.
- For a blank clue, the missing entry should make the full phrase sound natural, not merely match a dictionary definition.
- This clue appears at 15A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
ARAL
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
ARAL is the 4-letter answer for "Asia's shrinking ___ Sea" in the NYT Crossword. The clue is a fill-in-the-blank phrase, so the answer works by completing the wording naturally while matching the grid slot at 15A.
- Grid entry: ARAL in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Fill-in-the-blank.
- This is Across at 15A, so use the Down crossings to confirm ARAL.
- ARAL has 4 letters, matching the required slot for 15A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using ARAL
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all ARAL clues Position 15A
Answer length 4
Puzzle type Daily
Solver context
Extra Notes for This Clue
Crossings
Crossing Notes
This is Across at 15A, so use the Down crossings to confirm ARAL.
Editor note
Editorial Note
Classify this as a fill-in-the-blank and verify that the 4 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
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History
Clue History
May 5, 2026 Daily / 15A / 4 letters
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