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: 28 September 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. The anagram set is especially tempting early on, while the final category rewards solvers who recall classic childhood games.
NYT Connections Hints: 28 September 2026
Category 1:
- Think of plants commonly associated with a particular central part.
- These can be used as food crops or vegetables.
- Some are tall grasses or cereal crops.
- Look for things that have a long, prominent central growth.
Category 2:
- Think about a popular seafood served raw or cooked.
- These are commonly placed on the table alongside oysters.
- Several are acidic, spicy, or sharp in flavor.
- One of the group is a classic sauce made with vinegar.
Category 3:
- Think about a major American automobile manufacturer.
- These are names of vehicles rather than general car types.
- Some are associated with performance or muscle cars.
- One name is also associated with a powerful snake.
Category 4:
- Pay close attention to the spelling of each word.
- Each contains a repeated three-letter sequence.
- The repeated sequence appears within the same word.
- The trick is recognizing the unusual letter pattern rather than the meaning.
NYT Connections Answers: 28 September 2026
Here are the answers, grouped by category.
Category 1:

Category 2:

Category 3:

Category 4:

Conclusion & Quick Strategy Tip
The 28 September 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.







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