Struggling with today's NYT Connections puzzle? You're not alone! December 20th's edition (#923) has some tricky categories that might leave even seasoned players scratching their heads. But fear not, puzzle enthusiasts! CNET's own Gael Fashingbauer Cooper, a seasoned journalist and self-proclaimed pop-culture aficionado, is here to guide you through the maze. Gael, co-author of nostalgic gems like Whatever Happened to Pudding Pops? and The Totally Sweet '90s, brings her Gen X perspective and decades of experience (since 1989!) to the table. With a resume boasting names like Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, Minneapolis Star Tribune, and NBC News Digital, she's a pro at deciphering trends, both past and present. Her expertise spans breaking news, entertainment, lifestyle, and even the history of technology, making her the perfect puzzle companion.
But here's where it gets controversial: Gael’s hints might just be the key to unlocking today’s Connections, but some purists argue that relying on outside help takes the fun out of the game. What do you think? Is it cheating, or just smart strategy? Let us know in the comments!
Today’s NYT Connections puzzle (https://www.nytimes.com/games/connections) is a delightful challenge, especially for music enthusiasts who’ll appreciate the blue category. If you’re stuck grouping words, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ve got clues and the full answers to today’s puzzle.
The New York Times has upped the ante with its new Connections Bot (https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/connections-bot-brings-ai-to-the-new-york-times-games-section/), similar to the one for Wordle. After you play, head over to get a numeric score and a detailed analysis of your answers. For the data-driven puzzlers, the Times Games section now lets registered players track their progress (https://www.nytco.com/press/introducing-connections-stats-and-streaks/), including puzzles completed, win rate, perfect scores, and win streaks—perfect for the competitive nerd in all of us.
And this is the part most people miss: While the yellow and green groups might seem straightforward, the purple group often requires a leap of logic that can leave you stumped. Today’s purple category, in particular, might have you questioning your sanity—or at least your vocabulary.
Hints for Today’s Connections Groups
Here are four hints to help you crack today’s puzzle, starting with the easiest (yellow) and ending with the most perplexing (purple):
- Yellow group hint: Think about where you keep your belongings.
- Green group hint: Time to tackle the laundry—what services come to mind?
- Blue group hint: Dust off your record player and think of iconic British bands from the 1970s.
- Purple group hint: Imagine something hard and unyielding, like stone.
Answers for Today’s Connections Groups
Ready for the reveal? Here are the answers, broken down by color:
Yellow group: Containers
Bucket, can, drum, tin—everyday items you probably use without a second thought.Green group: Laundry Services
Dry, fold, press, wash—the chores we love to hate (or outsource).Blue group: British Bands Formed in the 1970s, with 'The'
Clash, Cure, Damned, Fall—a trip down memory lane for music lovers.Purple group: Rock ____
Bottom, lobster, music, salt—a category that’s as quirky as it is challenging.
What are your thoughts on today’s puzzle? Did the purple group stump you, or did you ace it? Share your experience in the comments below!
For more puzzle-solving tips, check out our guide: Hints, Tips and Strategies to Help You Win at NYT Connections Every Time (https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/nyt-connections-seven-hints-tricks-and-tips-for-winning-every-game/).
Toughest Connections Puzzles So Far
If you’re craving an extra challenge, we’ve compiled some of the most brain-bending Connections puzzles to date. These might just help you spot patterns in future games:
- #5: Included words like mood, record, table, volleyball—all things you can 'set.'
- #4: Featured egg, juror, month, rose—each 'one in a dozen.'
- #3: Spotlighted Elm, Fear, Jump, Sesame—famous 'streets on screen.'
- #2: Included nap, plant, Ranger, trip—all variations of 'power ___'.
- #1: Featured candidate, faucet, mascara, nose—things that can 'run.'
Don’t miss out on our unbiased tech reviews and in-depth content. Add CNET (https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=cnet.com) as a preferred Google source to stay updated on the latest trends and innovations.
Whether you’re a puzzle pro or a beginner, today’s NYT Connections is sure to test your wits. Happy solving!
