This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Friday, January 9, 2026 (4 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Friday puzzles are themeless and hard, with clues that are vague on purpose.
Answer length: 5 squares
First letter
P _ _ _ _
First and last letters
P _ _ _ E
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About the answer
PHASE as a word: A distinguishable part of a sequence or cycle occurring over time; That which is exhibited to the eye; the appearance which anything manifests, especially any one among different and varying appearances of the same object.
PHASE has been an answer 5 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since January 6, 2026.
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