‘Value that a function approaches, in math’ NYT Mini Crossword clue answer and hints

While I did well in mathematics at school, it wasn’t a subject I thought I’d need to use too regularly again—especially not in today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle.

“Value that a function approaches, in math” is one of the trickier clues that’s popped up in today’s Aug. 14 NYT Mini Crossword puzzle. If you’re stuck on this math question, you aren’t alone, and I’ve got the answer to this math clue below.

‘Value that a function approaches, in math’ NYT Mini Crossword clue Aug. 14 hints and answer

• Hint 1: It starts with an “L.”
• Hint 2: It rhymes with minute.
• Hint 3: It ends with a “T.”
• Hint 4: When you’re frustrated, you’ve reached your ____.

The answer to the “Value that a function approaches, in math” clue is “LIMIT.” In maths, specifically calculus, a limit describes how a number behaves near a specific point and not precisely at the point. Anyone who studied math at a high level likely knew this off the cuff; everyone else surely needed help.

NYT (Aug. 14) Mini Crossword puzzle: All clues and answers

Across

• 1A Get some shut-eye — SLEEP
• 6A Like some difficult running paths — HILLY
• 7A Kind of chain you might wish to be off — EMAIL
• 8A “Same here!” — DITTO
• 9A Late riser, stereotypically — TEEN

Down

• 1D Remove, as a layer of snakeskin — SHED
• 2D Value that a function approaches, in math — LIMIT
• 3D Make extremely happy — ELATE
• 4D In the top 1% — ELITE
• 5D End zone marker — PYLON

‘Value that a function approaches, in math’ clue difficulty

Unless you’re studying mathematics, need to use it in your job, or happen to remember everything from your Calculus class, this clue is nothing short of difficult. It wasn’t until I solved the entire puzzle that I realized the answer, so I’d give it a four out of five in difficulty.

Puzzles and word games to enjoy after the NYT Mini Crossword

If you’re looking for more crossword puzzles to play, try the ones from the LA Times or Washington Post. For word searches and spelling challenges, try Strands or Spelling Bee.