USA TODAY Crossword · 31-Across · 3 letters
It can be fragile or inflated USA TODAY Crossword clue
Editorially reviewed August 22, 2026
Decode the turn
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What to notice
Find the three-letter part of the self that can be bruised or overgrown.
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Answer
How the trick resolves
Both adjectives form familiar expressions with EGO: a fragile ego is easily wounded, while an inflated ego is an exaggerated sense of importance.
Continue this puzzleLike someone who unplugs completely →The turn in the clue
Two contrasting adjectives point to a noun that commonly follows either one.
The answer in plain English
An ego is a person's sense of self-esteem or self-importance.
Where this clue appeared
31-Across in USA TODAY Crossword puzzle for August 21, 2026.
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