The New York Times Connections puzzle has quickly become a favorite daily brain teaser for word lovers. Each day brings a fresh grid of 16 words, and the challenge is always the same: sort them into 4 tidy groups by uncovering the hidden links.

What makes it special is the balance—it looks straightforward, but the categories can be unexpectedly clever. Unlike the time commitment of a crossword or Sudoku, Connections can be wrapped up in just a few minutes. Still, it requires sharp focus, mental flexibility, and a dash of creativity to see the connections.

NYT Connections Puzzle: 25 September 2025

NYT Connections Hints: 25 September 2025

If you are also clueless like us, get some ideas from the hints for today's NYT Connections puzzle: NYT Connections Hints: 25 September 2025

Category 1:

  • A Boston-set crime thriller directed by Martin Scorsese.
  • A legal drama about an idealistic young attorney.
  • A space survival story on Mars.
  • A Cold War spy tale about the CIA’s early years.

Category 2:

  • Associated with the color often used for U.S. Democratic states.
  • Opposite of right, on both maps and ideologies.
  • A synonym for open-minded and reform-focused.
  • Word often tied to progressive social movements.

Category 3:

  • A crispy vessel that holds scoops.
  • The classic serving alternative to a cone.
  • A frozen drink often topped with whipped cream.
  • A banana-based dessert piled high with ice cream.

Category 4:

  • A Greek/Roman god tied to the sun and music.
  • A spacecraft series that put humans on the moon.
  • A movie character who boxed alongside Rocky.
  • A place to watch plays or concerts, often historic.

NYT Connections Hints: 25 September 2025

Category 1:
Category 2:
Category 3:
Category 4:

Wrapping up

A cultural mashup! Movies, politics, desserts, and mythology give this puzzle an eclectic but satisfying flavor.

Start with the Ice Cream group — those food words stand out quickly. Then move on to the movies (look for “The”). Save the “Apollo” group for last, since it blends abstract categories like gods, spacecraft, and theaters.