Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.

Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game. 

NYT Strands today (game #399) - hint #1 - today's theme 

What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

• Today's NYT Strands theme is… The feeling is mutual

NYT Strands today (game #399) - hint #2 - clue words

Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.

• LEMON

• GNOME

• LIKE

• ZERO

• GAMES

• SHAME

NYT Strands today (game #399) - hint #3 - spangram letters

How many letters are in today's spangram?

• Spangram has 8 letters

NYT Strands today (game #399) - hint #4 - spangram position

What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

First side: left, 5th row

Last side: right, 5th row

Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM. 

Conclusion:

Today's NYT Strands puzzle (#399) was all about mutual feelings, making it an interesting yet tricky challenge. If you struggled, the clue words and spangram hints hopefully helped you crack it. Whether you're a Strands pro or just getting started, keep playing and refining your word skills. Check back tomorrow for more hints and answers!

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