NYT Mini · 4-Across · 5 letters
Start of a tennis point NYT Mini crossword clue
Editorially reviewed October 8, 2026
Answer · 5 letters
SERVE
SERVE answers the October 8 NYT Mini's 4-Across in five letters. The clue asks what begins a point: the server sends the ball into play before the receiver can return it. Here 'start' names an action as a thing, so SERVE is a noun rather than an instruction to the player.
Different crossing letters? Check another fit →A serve can become an ace
ACE describes a successful serve that the opponent cannot touch with the racquet. That is one possible outcome of the opening shot, not the general name for every point's beginning. It also has only three letters, so it cannot fill this five-square entry. The USTA glossary distinguishes the two terms explicitly.
A rally is the exchange, not the opening shot
RALLY also has five letters, but the USTA defines it as a series of successful hits. Length alone therefore leaves a tempting wrong fit: the clue singles out the beginning, rather than the back-and-forth exchange that may follow. For related clues, separate the opening stroke, the player's return and the continuing exchange before testing crossings.
References behind this explanation
These references support the meaning or background; they are not publisher endorsements.
Where this clue appeared
4-Across in NYT Mini puzzle for October 8, 2026.
Browse selected NYT Mini clues →Related reviewed clues
Solve the next clue here.
Paste another clue, add the letters you trust, and keep solving without returning to search.
This independently written explanation is for learning and clue analysis. Crossword Clue Tutor is not affiliated with or endorsed by NYT Mini or its publisher.