The New York Times Connections puzzle challenges players to sort 16 seemingly unrelated words into four connected groups. Each group shares a hidden link. Today’s grid blends physical actions, clever rearrangements, and nostalgic references, making it both playful and slightly deceptive. Below you’ll find gentle hints to guide your thinking, followed by the complete solutions once you’re ready to check your work.
NYT Connections Puzzle Overview: 30 January 2026
Today’s Connections puzzle leans heavily into verb-based thinking and lateral associations. Some groupings feel intuitive, while others rely on spotting patterns beyond surface meanings.
NYT Connections Hints: 30 January 2026
Category 1:
- Think about general spaces or sections
- These words describe parts of a whole
- Often used in both literal and abstract contexts
- None of them are physical objects by default
Category 2:
- Items you might keep in a bathroom or travel kit
- Related to personal care routines
- Small tools with specific uses
- Typically handheld and practical
Category 3:
- Objects that stick to things
- Adhesion is the key idea
- Common household or first-aid items
- Often disposable or replaceable
Category 4:
- Each word pairs naturally with the same term
- Think idiomatic expressions
- The shared word comes after these
- Often heard in conversational English
NYT Connections Answers: 30 January 2026
Here are the answers, grouped by category.
Category 1:
Category 2:
Category 3:
Category 4:
Conclusion & Quick Strategy Tip
The 30 January 2026 Connections puzzle balances straightforward action words with trickier conceptual links, making it satisfying once everything clicks. Quick strategy tip: lock in obvious verb groups early, then examine remaining words for structural patterns or shared cultural references.
