Stumped on today’s Connections puzzle? You’re not alone—but with these hints and insights, you’ll breeze through it:
🟨 Yellow – Move to the Music
Hint: Actions you take when you “feel the beat.”
Words: BOP, BOUNCE, GROOVE, SWAY
🟩 Green – Inhalation
Hint: Words related to drawing in air or smoke.
Words: DRAG, DRAW, PUFF, PULL
🟦 Blue – Martini Specifications
Hint: How James Bond likes his cocktail.
Words: DRY, GIN, SHAKEN, TWIST
🟪 Purple – ___ WORD
Hint: Common terms that pair with “word.”
Words: BUZZ, CROSS, LOAN, PASS
In-Depth Analysis & Solver Strategies
1. ✅ Yellow – Instant Groove
Start here with noticeable “music” actions. These four words flow together naturally once you spot one or two.
2. ✅ Green – Breathe It In
Puzzlers often hesitate between “drag” and “draw,” but “puff” and “pull” clearly link to inhalation.
3. ✅ Blue – Bond-Approved
“Dry,” “gin,” “shaken,” and “twist” hint directly at your favorite shaken-not-stirred cocktail. If you’re a Bond fan, this clicks fast.
4. ✅ Purple – Wordplay Category
Noticing common suffixes or prefixes is key—here, these words work perfectly with “word.” It’s a classic NYT purple-level play.
Pro Tips to Level Up
- Clear the easy groups first: Yellow and Green are straightforward, boosting confidence.
- Use pop culture cues: If you recognize a theme (Bond cocktails, dance moves), follow that train.
- Notice prefixes/suffixes: Purple often hides in linguistic patterns—look for them.
- Shuffle strategically: Once a set is spotted, the shuffle button can help isolate the rest.
Popular FAQs About NYT Connections
Q1: When does the puzzle reset?
NYT Connections updates at midnight local time—so check fresh puzzles as soon as your day begins.
Q2: How many incorrect moves are allowed?
You can make up to four mistakes per puzzle—more errors end the game, so choose wisely.
Q3: Do I need a subscription to play?
No—NYT Connections is completely free on the web and via mobile after signup.
Q4: What makes the purple category so tricky?
Its challenges range from wordplay to suffix/prefix puzzles—designed to be the hardest group each day.
