The phim set my hiep damMini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursay, Jan. 4, 2024:

Across

One might have the caption "That moment when ..."

• The answer is meme.

Army rank above captain

• The answer is major.

Chicago's United Center, for one

• The answer is arena.

Annoy, with "off"

• The answer is tick.

Hider of a bad haircut, perhaps

• The answer is hat.

Down

"Ave ___" (song)

• The answer is Maria.

Pop out of a fighter plane

• The answer is eject.

TV detective played by Tony Shalhoub

• The answer is Monk.

Section of history

• The answer is era.

It has its pluses and minuses

• The answer is math.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Mini Crossword.