‘Rubs the wrong way’ NYT Mini Crossword Aug. 8 clue solution and hints

There comes a time when someone or something simply “rubs you the wrong way,” and today, this happens to be how tricky the NYT Mini Crossword Puzzle is—or rather, just one of the clues appearing in the game.

This vexing clue popped up on Aug. 8 and considering how many four-letter words this answer could be, it certainly lives up to its irritating namesake.

‘Rubs the wrong way’ NYT Aug. 8 Mini Crossword hints and answer

• Hint 1: It starts with a vowel.
• Hint 2: It’s a verb.
• Hint 3: It rhymes with quirk.
• Hint 4:  It ends in an “S.”

The answer to the “Rubs the wrong way” clue is “IRKS.” Irks is the verb form of irk, which is a noun that means to become irritated or annoyed by something or someone. Although irks is a good word, I much prefer using something like vex and bother. They feel like they have a bit more “oomph” to “being irritated.”

All NYT (Aug. 8) Mini Crossword puzzle clues and answers

Across

• 1A Q-tip, for instance — SWAB
• 5A Bracelet dangler — CHARM
• 6A Pricey watchmaker with crown logo — ROLEX
• 7A Rubs the wrong way — IRKS
• 8A Spanish for “kiss” — BESO

Down

• 1D Place to find seashells — SHORE
• 2D “Enjoys long ___on the beach” (classic phrase in a personal ad) — WALKS
• 3D Retort to “Am not!” — ARE SO
• 4D Stunt rider’s sport, for short — BMX
• 5D Bed with a blankie — CRIB

‘Rubs the wrong way’ clue difficulty – ranked

I didn’t find this clue to be too tricky but that’s because I tend to use the word irk and its synonyms often. It’s definitely an uncommon word, which is why phrases like rubs the wrong way are more well-known and used a whole lot more frequently. Still, I would give it a three out of five in difficulty because of its rarity.

More puzzles to enjoy after the NYT Mini Crossword

Did you enjoy solving today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle? If so, try the ones from the LA Times or the Washington Post. Or, if you enjoy word games, try Strands or Spelling Bee from the NYT.