‘Point of transition between two zodiac signs’ NYT Crossword clue answer and hints

The zodiac plays a huge role in today’s NYT Mini Crossword, and the “Point of transition between two zodiac signs” clue is likely to trip many players up. We have the answer for you here, along with a few hints to help you toward the solution.

‘Point of transition between two zodiac signs’ NYT Mini Crossword clue Aug. 27 hints

• Hint one: On the verge.
• Hint two: It can be any zodiac sign.
• Hint three: Rearrange “PUCS.”
• Hint four: Starts with “C.”

If you’ve successfully arrived at the word, I congratulate you. If not, read on for the solution.

‘Point of transition between two zodiac signs’ solution Aug. 27 NYT Mini Crossword

“CUSP” is the four-letter answer to the clue, and in Astrology, the cusp represents the line between two consecutive zodiac symbols. For example, if you are born on Apr. 19, you are an Aries, but you’re on the cusp of being a Taurus.

NYT Aug. 27 Mini Crossword puzzle: All clues and answers

Across

• 1A Point of transition between two zodiac signs — CUSP
• 5A Declare legally avoid — ANNUL
• 7A Providence,_____ Island — RHODE
• 8A August zodiac sign — VIRGO
• 9A Olympic fencing sword — EPEE

Down

• 1D Slice up, as a turkey — CARVE
• 2D Not “with it” — UNHIP
• 3D Be a noisy bedmate — SNORE
• 4D Cutely pokeable bit of belly flab — PUDGE
• 6D August zodiac sign — LEO

‘Point of transition between two zodiac signs’ NYT Crossword clue difficulty

Cusp is a more general word, but because the clue was directly tailored toward the concept of the zodiac, cusp never got close to entering my mind—despite me knowing the word inside out. I personally believe this is a four out of five for difficulty—and could be a five—because the clue is obscure, but the word “cusp” isn’t.

NYT Mini Crossword tips and tricks

If you struggle with the NYT Mini Crossword each day, or there’s always a clue or two tripping you up, check out these handy tips:

• Like with the zodiac clue, don’t take the clue directly as it appears. Many answers end up being quite general solutions.
• Use a hint if needed. There’s no point being stuck for an hour.
• Try to answer questions around the one you’re stuck on.
• Consider if the solution might actually be two words.

Best daily word games like NYT Mini Crossword

The LA Times, Washington Post, Strands, and Spelling Bee are the best examples of free, daily word games designed to stimulate the senses, and they present a new challenge each day.