USA TODAY Crossword · 30-Across · 3 letters
Word before "Clash" or "Cure" USA TODAY Crossword clue
Editorially reviewed September 8, 2026
Answer · 3 letters
THE
The quoted, capitalized names point to the bands The Clash and The Cure. Both take THE before the supplied name, so the answer is the three-letter article. The previous CULTURE answer was incorrect: culture clash is an expression, but culture cure is not the second band's name.
Different crossing letters? Check another fit →Complete both names
Read the two results separately: THE CLASH and THE CURE. The same three-letter article works at the start of each. One valid combination alone is not enough for a shared-word clue.
Why the earlier answer was wrong
CULTURE can precede clash in ordinary language, but it does not complete the second band name. This page has been corrected to THE after checking the August 27, 2026 USA TODAY clue and its 30-Across answer.
References behind this explanation
- USA TODAY clue, August 27, 2026: numbered three-letter answer
- Independent exact-clue answer confirmation
These references support the meaning or background; they are not publisher endorsements.
Where this clue appeared
30-Across in USA TODAY Crossword puzzle for August 27, 2026.
Browse selected USA TODAY Crossword clues →More selected clues from USA TODAY Crossword · August 27, 2026
Continue with independently explained clues from the same puzzle date. This is a selected learning set, not a complete answer list.
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 USA TODAY Crossword or its publisher.