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Today’s theme, “Lip Service,” focuses on words describing facial expressions conveyed by lips.
The thriller or spangram EXPRESSIONS stitches together all other words into the fabric of emotions and gestures.
Solving Strands puzzles becomes more manageable with the help of hints, spotting unusual letters, and channeling patterns.
Fall is officially here, and with it comes the cozy feeling of changing leaves, pumpkin spice, and even a few early Halloween decorations. But before diving into seasonal fun, it’s time to tackle today’s NYT Strands puzzle. Today’s theme is all about lips and the expressions they create.
NYT Strands Today is a twist on the classic word search. Each day, players get a new theme and a grid of letters. The goal is to find words that fit the theme. One special word, the spangram, stretches across the grid and links multiple theme words together. The spangram is highlighted in yellow, while other theme words appear in blue.
This game is still in beta, so it’s important that players return every day. Themes can be tricky, with some words used figuratively or as homophones, so stay alert.
Hint: Words connected to lips on your face.
Clue: What can be done with lips, sometimes silently?
SM
SN
FR
SM
GR
SC
GA
PO
Spangram: EXPRESSIONS
Other words:
SMILE
SNEER
FROWN
SMIRK
GRIN
SCOWL
GAPE
POUT
The words, being short and pleasant, ensured an easy flow through the puzzle. EXPRESSIONS is a marvelous spangram that defines the theme since all words denote the semblance in which lips may convey emotions. SMILE and GRIN were undoubtedly easy to recognize, but words like SNEER and SCOWL were challenging. The list ended on a good note with POUT and GAPE.
Getting the spangram early certainly speeds up the finding of other words. Sometimes, focusing on a rarer letter, like the X in EXPRESSIONS, will solve it quickly. From there on, rearranging letters or simply writing them down may make picking out those words easier.
Look for unique letters: Rare or unusual letters may appear in the spangram.
Start with obvious words: SMILE, GRIN, and similar words may be clues to the more difficult ones.
Use the hint system: Additional theme words may be revealed by typing a few correct answers.
Think outside the box: Some words may not be literal but will conceptually fit the theme.
The ‘Lip Service’ NYT Strands Answer September 24 demonstrates how expression can be conveyed without words. It is a balanced mix of fun and challenge, allowing players to work on their vocabulary and logic skills. Playing these puzzles daily helps pattern recognition and cultivates patience and the love of language in its playful forms.
