Start of a countdown Mini / 8A / 3 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Mini Crossword
The word "decimate" initially meant to reduce something by a factor of this NYT Crossword Clue
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Answer
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TEN
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
TEN is the 3-letter answer for the clue "The word "decimate" initially meant to reduce something by a factor of this". The clue points to a specific reference rather than a broad synonym, which is why exact spelling matters. In this NYT Mini Crossword, it appears at 4D, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: TEN in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _.
- Clue type: Reference clue.
- TEN has 3 letters, matching the required slot for 4D.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using TEN
(This clue number x 2) + 2 Mini / 4D / 3 letters
Puzzle clues Hint
This clue is asking for a compact abbreviation-style entry.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue "The word "decimate" initially meant to reduce something by a factor of this", first identify whether the wording is direct, referential, abbreviated, or playful. This one is best treated as a reference clue.
- This clue leans on a named person, work, title, or quoted phrase. Identify the reference, then fit it into a 3-letter slot.
- At 3 letters, this is a compact entry, so one crossing letter can change the solve quickly.
- This clue appears at 4D in the NYT Mini Crossword, so check the Across crossings for confirmation.
Position 4D
Answer length 3
Puzzle type Mini
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History
Clue History
July 27, 2026 Mini / 4D / 3 letters
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