The New York Times Crossword is a daily mental workout, and today’s puzzle, #164 for August 14th, presents a set of intriguing clues that might leave you scratching your head. Fear not, dear solvers! We’re here to provide some helpful hints, answers, and strategies to help you conquer this challenge.

Remember: The beauty of crosswords lies in the journey, so try to solve as much as you can on your own before peeking at the answers!

Here’s a breakdown of the puzzle and some tips:

Across

1A. One of two – This one might seem obvious, but pay attention to the phrasing. What is the “one” referring to?

5A. Get out of hand, informally – Think about the phrase “get out of hand” in the context of a playful conversation.

10A. Actor in “The Martian” – This clue points to a specific film. Think about the popular actors who starred in it.

14A. “____ the way it is” – This is a common phrase, and the answer is a single word.

15A. “The ___ in the Machine” (2013 film) – The film title is a classic reference, and the answer is a single word.

18A. Like some cheeses, when they’re not aged – This clue focuses on a characteristic of some cheeses.

20A. “____ be damned!” – This is another common phrase. Think about the feeling it conveys.

23A. ___-conscious – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

26A. Like some colors – Think about colors and how they are perceived.

28A. ___ out – This clue is asking for a common phrase meaning to “stop working”.

33A. What a king might wear – Think about the traditional attire of kings.

37A. Word before “soup” or “bread” – This clue refers to a common culinary pairing.

38A. “It was ____!” – This phrase implies something unexpected or impressive happened.

40A. Place to get an upgrade – Think about locations where you might get something better.

42A. Where a plane might touch down – This clue is a straightforward definition.

45A. Not quite a half, but more than a third – Think about fractions.

47A. Like the surface of a pond – Think about the characteristics of a pond’s surface.

48A. “____ is the word!” – This is a common phrase to express agreement or excitement.

49A. “____ you are a sight for sore eyes!” – This phrase is an expression of delight at seeing someone.

Down

1D. “____ on it!” – This phrase expresses a warning or threat.

2D. “___ is the limit” – This is a common phrase, and the answer is a single word.

3D. Like a well-oiled machine – Think about the qualities of a smooth-running machine.

4D. ___-conscious – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

6D. ___ out – This clue is asking for a common phrase meaning “to quit”.

7D. ___-shaped – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

8D. The beginning of the day, often – Think about the activities that mark the start of a day.

9D. Like some dreams – This clue focuses on a characteristic of dreams.

11D. ___-eyed – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

12D. “That’s ____ I’m here!” – This phrase is an explanation for one’s presence.

13D. Where a runner might trip – This clue refers to a specific location on a track.

16D. “____ is the reason I came!” – This phrase is an explanation for one’s motivation.

17D. “The ___ is not always green” – This is a well-known proverb, and the answer is a single word.

19D. ___-paced – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

21D. “____ a penny for your thoughts?” – This phrase is a polite way to inquire about someone’s thoughts.

22D. “____ for the thought!” – This phrase is an appreciative response to a kind gesture.

24D. ___-driven – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

25D. One might be caught in one – This clue refers to a situation where someone is trapped or unable to escape.

27D. ___ for the stars – This clue is asking for a common phrase meaning to “aspire for great things”.

29D. ___-up – This clue is asking for a common phrase meaning “to get ready”.

30D. ____-for-tat – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

31D. Place for a drink – This clue is a straightforward definition.

32D. Like a tightrope walker – Think about the posture and balance required for tightrope walking.

34D. One of the Big Four – This clue is referring to a group of large companies or organizations.

35D. “____ up!” – This phrase is a call to action or encouragement.

36D. “___ you like it or not” – This phrase implies that something is inevitable, regardless of personal preference.

39D. ___-worthy – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

41D. Word before “soup” or “wine” – This clue refers to a common culinary pairing.

43D. ___ out – This clue is asking for a common phrase meaning “to become visible”.

44D. ___-conscious – This clue requires you to fill in the missing part of a familiar phrase.

46D. “____ time!” – This phrase is an exclamation often used to signal the end of something.

Here are some general tips for solving crosswords:

Start with the easier clues: Look for clues that seem straightforward and fill in those answers first. This will give you a head start and build momentum.

Pay attention to crosswords: The letters you fill in for one clue will often intersect with other clues, helping you deduce the answers.

Don’t be afraid to guess: If you’re stuck on a clue, try to think of possible answers and see if they fit into the crossword grid. You might be surprised at what you discover!

Use reference materials: If you are stumped on a clue, feel free to use a dictionary, thesaurus, or online resources. Don’t feel guilty about seeking help; it’s all part of the learning process.

Enjoy the challenge and good luck with your solving!