Synonyms, literary references, and wordplay combine to make today’s Connections puzzle engaging.
Observing subtle links between words is essential for solving challenging NYT Connections grids.
Revisiting the grid with fresh eyes helps uncover hidden groups and tricky associations.
The NYT Connections puzzle for Wednesday gives players a hard time with a combination of synonyms, literary allusions, and wordplay. The twist for today is that it contains not only plain associations but also some skillful misdirection. Some groups are evident from the outset, while others require close observation to be revealed. The puzzle is of just the right level of difficulty that it is a source of both fun and deep thinking.
NYT Connections is a daily word game that presents 16 words in a grid. Players must arrange these words into four groups of four based on hidden connections. Each group has a distinct theme or category. Players can make up to three incorrect guesses before the game ends. The game emphasizes observation, pattern recognition, and lateral thinking. For those new to Connections, each puzzle encourages players to look beyond the obvious and consider synonyms, cultural references, or wordplay.
SQUAT, SHEPHERD, PIT, FALL, LUNGE, LEAD, SKINK, SOLID, HUSKY, CASK, DIRECT, COLONY, GUIDE, THINK, MASQUE, HEARTH
Today’s Connections Hints
Yellow group - Stocky: Well-built, robust shapes. One-word hint: SOLID
Green group - Steer: Words related to guiding or directing. One-word hint: LEAD
Blue group - Edgar Allan Poe stories: Reflect on the second words of well-known Poe titles right after "The." One-word hint: PIT
Purple group - Organ plus a letter: Smartly connecting up organs and letters through wordplay. One-word hint: SKINK
Yellow Group: SOLID
Green Group: LEAD
Blue Group: PIT
Purple Group: SKINK
Yellow Group (Stocky): HUSKY, SOLID, SQUAT, THICK
Green Group (Steer): DIRECT, GUIDE, LEAD, SHEPHERD
Blue Group (Second words in Poe stories, after “THE”): CASK, FALL, MASQUE, PIT
Purple Group (Organ plus a letter): COLONY, HEARTH, LUNGE, SKINK
The puzzle of today is a mix of easy connections and some tricky parts. The first group uses synonyms very clearly, so the second group can come up with hints related to behavior and location. Blue demands a familiarity with Edgar Allan Poe stories, posing a challenge to casual players. The purple group is the only one that uses wordplay, connecting organs to letters in a very gentle manner. Red herrings like the LUNGE and SQUAT test players’ focus, and the puzzle is an enjoyable combination of reasoning and lateral thinking.
The NYT Connections puzzle of November 19th demonstrates skillful design through overlapping themes and hidden wordplay. Success is usually achieved by retaking the grid with a different perspective. Recognizing synonyms, literary references, and subtle puns is still very much essential. This puzzle is enjoyable for both expert and beginner players due to its balance between tricky situations and playful distractions.