The NYT Connections puzzle once again mixes sharp wordplay with thematic associations, asking solvers to arrange sixteen words into four neat groups of four. Today’s grid brings a fun blend of tone-based clues, film references, natural-world themes, and a musical twist. Below you’ll find gentle hints followed by the full set of answers.
NYT Connections Puzzle Overview: 23 November 2025
Today’s puzzle feels balanced and approachable, with groups that span everyday language, nature, movies, and pop-music trivia. While none of the categories are excessively obscure, a couple may prompt second guesses due to overlapping meanings. Overall, it’s a satisfying mix of logic and cultural recall.
NYT Connections Hints: 23 November 2025
Category 1:
- Think of words describing someone not strict.
- These can describe rules that aren’t tightly enforced.
- Opposite of rigid or harsh.
- Often used to describe relaxed expectations.
Category 2:
- All relate to where certain animals take shelter.
- These may be dug, built, or naturally formed.
- Creatures retreat here for safety.
- Often associated with wild habitats.
Category 3:
- Think of a well-known director with politically charged films.
- Titles that often reference real people or events.
- Includes works spanning different decades.
- Strong dramatic and historical themes.
Category 4:
- These words complete titles of famous pop hits.
- All tied to a legendary Swedish group.
- Recognizable from karaoke playlists.
- Each finishes a well-known song name.
NYT Connections Answers: 23 November 2025
Here are the answers, grouped by category.
Category 1:
Category 2:
Category 3:
Category 4:
Conclusion & Quick Strategy Tip
Today’s puzzle blends recognizable references with gentle misdirection, making it enjoyable without being overwhelming. The mix of media, nature, and descriptive terms keeps things fresh.
Quick strategy tip: When stuck, identify words that clearly belong to pop culture or specific domains—they often anchor the grid and reveal the remaining patterns.
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