How the NYT Teaches You to Say Anything Using Sign Language—A Must-Read for Inclusive Communication

May 28, 2025 — Crossword fans racing to complete today’s New York Times Mini found themselves paused at the down clue “Using sign language, say.” If you’re still stumped, the four-letter solution is “DEAF,” confirmed by multiple puzzle–help sites that track each day’s grid in real time. Why “DEAF” Fits the Clue • The clue points to people who commonly rely on American Sign Language (ASL) or other national sign systems for everyday communication. • Crosswords favor concise answers; “DEAF” is a direct descriptor that aligns neatly with the Mini’s bite-size format. The Mini Crossword’s Growing Popularity • Released daily at midnight ET, the Mini offers a five-by-five grid that most solvers tackle in under two minutes. • Its rapid, shareable nature fuels social chatter on X, Threads, and TikTok, where time stamps and streak counts spark friendly competition. • Trending clues like “Using sign language, say” often surge in search volume as solvers look for a quick assist before their coffee cools. Spotlight on Sign Language and Deaf Culture ASL is the primary language for an estimated 500,000 to one million users in the United States alone. Visibility in mass-media puzzles introduces millions of readers to everyday Deaf experiences, encouraging curiosity about: • basic ASL signs, • Deaf history and advocacy, • the importance of captions and inclusive design. Tips for Cracking Future NYT Mini Clues 1. Scan plurals first—an “S” ending narrows possibilities fast. 2. Look for wordplay: “say,” “perhaps,” or “for short” hint that the answer may describe an example rather than a definition. 3. Keep a mental list of common four-letter crossword favorites (AREA, ERIE, AIRS, DEAF). 4. When stuck, step away; the Mini’s compact grid rewards fresh eyes and a reset timer. When and Where to Play • NYTimes.com/games and the official NYT Games app publish the Mini at 12:00 a.m. ET daily. • A paid Games subscription unlocks the full archive, but the current day’s Mini remains free to solve. Bottom Line If “Using sign language, say” blocked your perfect streak, “DEAF” is the key. With its blend of bite-size challenge and cultural references, the NYT Mini continues to punch above its weight in daily puzzle buzz—and today’s clue is a reminder that language, whether spoken or signed, is always worth decoding.