A different practice route each day

Clue Clinic · September 1, 2026

Today's set is organized by how each clue works, with the largest round focused on language tricks. Reveal any answer immediately or use its tailored cue first.

11 meaning warm-up · 12 language tricks · 3 short forms · 5 knowledge clues

Meaning warm-up

Direct definitions and familiar senses to establish the day's solving rhythm.

11 clues
04
Crossword clue · 7 letters

Targets of pool chalk ... and a phonetic hint to the starts of 8-, 9-, 25- and 26-Across and 9-Down

Meaning cue

Name the two-word plural for the chalked ends of billiard sticks.

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05
Crossword clue · 4 letters

Platform for unloading cargo ships

Meaning cue

Use the four-letter waterfront structure pronounced like “key.”

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11
Crossword clue · 5 letters

Noted magnate on the Titanic

Meaning cue

Think of the first-class passenger whose family name is also associated with New York hotels; enter only the five-letter surname.

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Language tricks

Punctuation, double meanings, and clue turns that reward a second look.

12 clues

Short forms

Abbreviations, informal usage, and compact entries whose form is part of the solve.

3 clues

Knowledge clues

Names, titles, places, and facts where one precise detail confirms the fill.

5 clues