The New York Times' word puzzle sensation, Connections, has firmly established itself as a daily ritual for millions of players worldwide. It masterfully blends the straightforward appeal of games like Wordle with deeper layers of logic, pattern recognition, and clever wordplay. The game presents a unique mental workout that has captivated an international audience seeking to sharpen their intellect.
What is the NYT Connections Game?
NYT Connections is an engaging word association puzzle designed to test analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Unlike simpler word games, it challenges players to discern often subtle and abstract links between words. Each day, a new grid of 16 seemingly random words is presented in a 4x4 format. The player's task is to sort these words into four groups of four, each sharing a common, thematic connection.
The game is freely accessible via web browsers on both desktop and mobile devices, making it a convenient and popular daily habit for enthusiasts. Its elegant yet demanding mechanics offer a perfect balance of knowledge and intellectual challenge.
Today's Puzzle: January 07, 2026 (Game #941)
The puzzle for January 07, 2026, identified as game number 941, offers a classic mix of categories ranging from straightforward to tricky. For players seeking a nudge in the right direction without spoiling the solution, here are the strategic hints provided for this edition:
- YELLOW: Lookalike
- GREEN: A chunk of something financial
- BLUE: Seen on the end of poles
- PURPLE: Pushed down for use
These clues are crafted to guide players towards recognizing patterns and employing logical deduction, preserving the core challenge of the puzzle.
Official Categories and Answers for January 07
Below are the four correct connection categories and their corresponding word groups for today's puzzle. If you're ready to check your work or understand the solutions, here they are:
YELLOW: DOPPELGÄNGER
The words CLONE, DOUBLE, MIRROR, RINGER all refer to a lookalike or duplicate.
GREEN: PORTION
The words CONCERN, INTEREST, SHARE, STAKE can all mean a portion or part of something, especially in a financial or business context.
BLUE: COMMON FLAG SYMBOLS
The words CRESCENT, CROSS, STAR, STRIPE are all common symbols found on national flags around the world.
PURPLE: PRESSED USING A PRESS
The words CIDER, GARLIC, TROUSERS, WINE are all items that can be processed or treated using a press (e.g., cider press, garlic press, trouser press, wine press).
Frequently Asked Questions About NYT Connections
How do you play NYT Connections?
Players are presented with a 4x4 grid of words. The goal is to identify four groups of four words that share a common theme. Select the four words you believe are connected and submit your group.
Are hints available in the game?
Yes, the game provides subtle, color-coded hints (like those above) to assist players without giving away the answers directly.
Is NYT Connections free to play?
Absolutely. The game is completely free to play on The New York Times website or through their app, accessible on various devices.
What skills does this puzzle enhance?
Regular play can significantly improve pattern recognition, logical reasoning, lateral thinking, and general problem-solving abilities. It's a fun and stimulating exercise for the mind.
As Connections continues its daily release, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted puzzles, offering a consistent source of fascination and a rigorous test of mental dexterity for its global following.
