How to Approach NYT Connections
The New York Times Connections game is a daily challenge that tests your ability to categorize words based on hidden commonalities. Each puzzle features 16 words that must be organized into four distinct groups, ranked by difficulty: yellow (easiest), green, blue, and purple (most challenging).
Since the game can be tricky, we have compiled the essential information to help you clear the board. Players have up to four chances to make a mistake, and the final category is often solved through simple elimination.
Today's Category Hints
If you are looking for a nudge in the right direction, here are the themes for today's groups:
- Yellow: Conditions or states of being.
- Green: Synonyms for enduring or putting up with something.
- Blue: Various types of shortened language forms.
- Purple: Words constructed using U.S. postal abbreviations.
Official Answers for Game #1219
Warning: The section below contains spoilers. Do not scroll further if you wish to solve the puzzle on your own.
Here are the completed groups for today's session:
- YELLOW (Status): CONDITION, SHAPE, SITUATION, STATE
- GREEN (Tolerate): BEAR, HANDLE, STAND, WEATHER
- BLUE (Word Shortenings): ABBREVIATION, CONTRACTION, ELISION, NICKNAME
- PURPLE (Words using U.S. Postal Abbreviations): ALKYLAMIDE, CALAMARI, MANDARIN, MELAMINE
Note: For those unfamiliar with the term, the blue category included ELISION, which refers to the omission of sounds or syllables in a word to facilitate easier pronunciation.
Tips for Success
Connections requires a bit more strategic thinking than other viral word games. Be wary of "red herrings"—words that seem like they could belong to multiple groups or act as homophones to distract you from the true categories. The game is available to play for free on the official New York Times Games website via both desktop and mobile browsers.