1A. Do some legwork? – SQUAT
A traditional cryptic-type clue, ’legwork’ is literal and punning here, a reference to a squatting exercise.
6A. Deep, narrow valley – GULCH
An evocative word that could throw you off if you fell for ‘gully’ on a whim. Close, but no cigar.
7A. Worn and shabby – TATTY
A British-sounding word that doesn’t make it into American usage much. Similar to ‘tattered,’ but a tad tattier.
8A. Word below ‘To’ on a gift card – FROM
A holiday or birthday classic, if you’ve wrapped a gift, you’ve written this.
9A. $2.90, for a N.Y.C. subway ride – FARE
A straightforward that’s also a reminder of the city’s ever-rising transit costs.
