The New York Times Connections game is becoming a daily habit for many puzzle lovers. Like Wordle and Mini Crossword, this game tests your thinking skills by asking you to group words based on hidden links. Some days are easy, but some puzzles really make players stop and think.
If today’s puzzle confused you, don’t worry. Many players felt the same. Below is a simple and clear explanation of today’s hints, word groups, and final answers.
What Is the NYT Connections Game?
Connections is a word grouping game from the New York Times. Players are given 16 words and must divide them into four correct groups. Each group has a common meaning or theme.
The challenge is that many words can fit into more than one group, which makes the puzzle tricky.
Why Today’s Puzzle Felt Difficult
The January 26 puzzle mixed emotions, actions, famous names, and word tricks. Some words looked very similar in meaning, which made it easy to choose the wrong group.
One category also used a clever word twist, which confused many players.
Hints for Today’s Connections Categories
Here are easy-to-understand clues for today’s four groups:
- Treat someone in a wrong or unfair way
- Make someone scared or nervous
- Famous women from movies
- Animal-related words with a small change
These hints help narrow down the correct connections without giving everything away at once.
Today’s NYT Connections Answers Explained
Below are the final answers for puzzle number 960, explained in simple terms:
Group 1: Words Meaning to Exploit
These words are used when someone takes advantage of another person.
DRAIN, FLEECE, MILK, SQUEEZE
Group 2: Words That Mean to Intimidate
All these words describe making someone feel scared or uneasy.
BUFFALO, COW, RATTLE, RUFFLE
Group 3: Famous Hollywood Actresses
These are well-known actresses who have starred in many popular films.
CLOSE, FIELD, FOSTER, WEAVER
Group 4: Mammals with Last Letter Removed
These words become animal names when you add one letter at the end.
BADGE, GOA, MOOS, RABBI
This was the trickiest group for most players.
Why People Love the Connections Game
Connections is popular because it makes players think differently. It improves vocabulary, logic, and pattern recognition. It’s also fun to discuss answers with friends or online communities.
Many players enjoy the “aha” moment when everything suddenly makes sense.
Conclusion
The NYT Connections puzzle for Monday, January 26, 2026, was clever and challenging. With word tricks, emotional meanings, and pop culture references, it tested players at multiple levels. If you solved it on your own, well done. If not, tomorrow is another chance to try again.
Keep playing daily to sharpen your brain and enjoy the challenge.
FAQs
What is NYT Connections?
It is a daily word puzzle where players group words based on common themes.
How many groups are in one puzzle?
There are four groups, and each group has four related words.
Why do some puzzles feel harder than others?
Some puzzles use wordplay, double meanings, or tricky themes.
Is Connections harder than Wordle?
Many players feel Connections is harder because multiple answers can look correct.
Can I play NYT Connections for free?
Yes, it is available on the New York Times Games section.