If you’ve spent time solving the New York Times Crossword, you know how a simple phrase can leave you stuck for minutes. A recent clue that’s caught the attention of puzzle fans is:
“Small amount of Manhattan NYT.”
At first glance, it might seem like it’s referring to New York real estate or something geographic. But like many clever NYT crossword clues, this one plays with language in a way that’s both frustrating and brilliant. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind this clue, the most common answers, and why it has become a hot topic in the puzzle-solving world.
Breaking Down the Clue: What Is “Small Amount of Manhattan”?
Let’s start with the basics. The clue “small amount of Manhattan” is intentionally vague. It could mean:
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A tiny part of New York City’s borough of Manhattan
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A small portion of a Manhattan cocktail (made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters)
But if you’re a crossword solver, you know the answer is usually a short, clever word that fits neatly into a small grid. So, the trick here is not to take the clue too literally.
Popular Answers to This Clue
Here are some of the most accurate and frequently seen answers to “small amount of Manhattan”:
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SIP – Likely the best fit. A Manhattan is a drink, and a small amount of it would logically be a sip.
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DROP – Works in some cases depending on the number of letters required.
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TAD – A small quantity of anything, though it’s more general and not drink-specific.
In most versions of the puzzle, SIP is the answer that NYT uses, especially in the Mini Crossword format.
When This Clue Appeared
This particular clue recently showed up in the NYT Mini Crossword for May 29, 2025, and quickly became one of the most searched clues of the day. Its cleverness and simplicity led to widespread discussion on crossword forums and social media.
If you want to see a full breakdown of that day’s puzzle and find the other answers, check out this helpful guide:
👉 NYT Mini Crossword – May 29, 2025
It explains each clue in detail and is a great tool for improving your crossword skills.
Why This Clue Got People Talking
The NYT Crossword is famous for including clues that make you overthink. The brilliance of “small amount of Manhattan” lies in its double meaning:
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If you thought about a tiny district in New York, you’re not wrong—but it’s not the answer.
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If you considered a cocktail reference, you were on the right track.
The clue led many solvers down a rabbit hole before they realized the answer was just three simple letters: SIP.
This is a perfect example of the misdirection that makes the NYT crossword so iconic—and sometimes, maddening.
Solving Tips for Tricky Clues Like This
When you encounter clues like this, here are a few strategies to keep in mind:
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Avoid Literal Thinking – Always consider alternative meanings or slang references.
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Think About Wordplay – Many clues have a pun or twist hidden in them.
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Start with Short Words – Clues with short answers often use basic words like sip, tip, bit, or dot.
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Use the Crosses – Filling in intersecting clues can help confirm your guess.
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Practice Mini Puzzles – They’re great for improving your ability to recognize tricky clue formats.
Conclusion: Why This NYT Clue Stands Out
The clue “small amount of Manhattan NYT” is short, subtle, and smarter than it seems. Whether you were stumped by it or guessed it right away, it highlights what makes the NYT Crossword such a beloved brain teaser.
From casual solvers to puzzle pros, clues like this keep us guessing and coming back for more. They challenge not just our vocabulary but also how we interpret everyday language.
So next time you see a clue that feels vague, remember—it might just be referring to something as simple as a sip.