The New York Times Connections puzzle has become a daily ritual for word enthusiasts. Every day, solvers face the challenge of grouping 16 seemingly random words into 4 distinct categories—discovering clever relationships that aren’t always obvious at first.

Its appeal lies in the balance: the rules are simple, but the solutions can be surprisingly tricky. Unlike a crossword marathon or a Sudoku grind, Connections can be solved in just a few minutes—yet it still demands sharp attention, flexible thinking, and a touch of creativity.

For September 12, 2025, today’s puzzle offers another engaging challenge. The grid may look harmless at first glance, but the hidden themes push you to think carefully and make connections you might not spot right away.

In this guide, you’ll find both gentle hints and the full set of answers—so whether you’re looking for just a little help or want to see the complete solution, we’ve got you covered.

NYT Connections Puzzle: 12 September 2025

NYT Connections Hints: 12 September 2025

Here we have gathered a few small but powerful hints for today's puzzle:

Category 1:

  • A courtroom defendant might make this to reduce a sentence.
  • Politicians often receive these signed by hundreds of people.
  • Auctions end when this wins.
  • A rallying shout or request for attention.

Category 2:

  • What do you type on an envelope before mailing?
  • Digital way of sending a message.
  • The word you’re given at birth.
  • Something you might give out for phone calls.

Category 3:

  • Lets you photograph tiny details up close.
  • Makes faraway objects appear near.
  • Gives a wide, warped, circular perspective.
  • Lets you change focal length seamlessly.

Category 4:

  • Think of a small streamlet or offshoot, but with an extra twist at the front.
  • An online auction site that hides a watery homophone inside.
  • Slang for someone unreliable, but shift perspective and you’ll see the water tie.
  • A person behind the wheel — but it also plays on the “river” sound.

NYT Connections Answers: 12 September 2025

Find out the answers for each category for NYT Connections puzzle today:

Category 1:

Category 2:

Category 3:

Category 4:

How did it go for you?

Did the categories fall into place quickly, or did you struggle before the “aha!” moment arrived? If you cracked it on your own, you probably felt that sweet rush of recognition. And if you needed a hand, don’t worry—we’ll walk you through the answers so you can still enjoy the puzzle to the fullest.