TUESDAY PUZZLE — One regularly finds clues and entries in the New York Times Crossword that promote good manners and a mirthless demeanor: “That does it!” “Be polite.” “I’ve had it!” These admonitions do not necessarily represent the opinions of their constructors; in fact, they probably don’t. Still, it can have a dampening effect on the levity of the puzzle.

The constructor David Falkowski has found a joyful loophole in today’s puzzle, which is also his Times Crossword debut. The theme takes the language of “getting serious” and turns it into a whole new way to joke around.

Today’s Theme

I’ve had ample occasion to use this phrase at 38-Across for [“Seriously, though …”] in Wordplay, since I’m usually cracking wise in one column or another. According to its clue, the expression ALL KIDDING ASIDE serves as a [hint to 17-, 25-, 48- and 58-Across]. How so? The “aside” refers to the fact that the cited entries have words for kidding around set to the side, at their ends.

17A’s [Campfire cookout, informally] may be described as a WEENIE ROAST. The [Old-time winter excursion] in 25A is a SLEIGH RIDE. A [Pugilist’s pain point, perhaps] at 48A — a boxing injury, in lay terms — would be a BRUISED RIB. And the [Seattle landmark from which Mount Rainier can be seen] at 58A is the SPACE NEEDLE. To roast, ride, rib or needle are various ways to poke fun. Note: I welcome light versions of these in the comments section, so long as they aren’t at someone else’s expense.

Tricky Clues

14A/27A. These clues are similar, in that they are both adjectives that refer to casualness, in a way. But [Laid back] describes a person’s demeanor, while [Loosey-goosey] describes a state of affairs. The first means AT EASE; the second means LAX.

34A. I may not be [Susceptible to bribery], but I’m easily misled when it comes to words that look or sound alike: I thought VENAL just meant something related to veins — that would be “venous” — and not to mercenary behavior. It makes sense, though, since the term shares its roots with “vend.”

44A. This [Letter-shaped part of a blueprint] refers, presumably, to a shape made by the ELL-like corners of a building layout. “Ell” if I know why!

1D. I grew up dancing to instructional pop songs like the “Cha Cha Slide,” so I assumed that [What’s shaken in the order to “Shake!”] referred to one’s “bum.” Imagine my shame upon discovering that this clue’s “order” is one given to a dog. The answer is PAW.

21D. Locations, be they cities, states or countries, are often used to hint at foreign-language entries. [Crafts, in Córdoba] are called ARTES, since Córdoba is in Spain.

48D. [Started] looks like a past-tense verb — “began,” then? In fact, this is a sneaky past participle. The answer is BEGUN. You’d have seen your mistake, as I did, by trying to solve the crossing entry for [Exploit], which is USE, not “ase.”

Constructor Notes

Without divulging the number of fist pumps that occurred when I received the good news, let me just say that I am beyond thrilled to be making my New York Times debut! I have enjoyed crosswords for many years and am very happy to give back to the crossword community. A huge “Thank you!” to Christina and the puzzle team for the improvements they made to this puzzle and the invaluable feedback they provided on previous submissions. Also, a special thanks to my brother and sister-in-law for their support and willingness to review my puzzles.

For my fellow data nerds: I submitted this puzzle on Sept. 20, 2025. It was accepted on Dec. 4, and published on Oct. 20, 2026. Of the 76 clues submitted, 36 were unchanged, 25 were slightly changed and 15 were completely changed. Unfortunately, my clue for 17-Across — [“Where to find dogs in heat?”] — was deemed a bit too tough for a Tuesday.

I hope that you enjoy my puzzle. Happy solving!

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