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: 31 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: 31 January 2026
Category 1:
- Social gatherings rather than formal meetings
- Often planned to celebrate or mark an occasion
- Can be casual or elegant depending on context
- Commonly associated with invitations and guests
Category 2:
- Tools rather than artistic styles
- All involve applying a surface layer
- Used in creative or practical projects
- Differ mainly by technique and finish
Category 3:
- Defined by physical shape
- Each item branches into two sides
- Recognizable silhouettes from everyday life
- The shared trait is visual, not functional
Category 4:
- A word with multiple meanings
- Can describe time, motion, or change
- Appears in both technical and everyday language
- Meaning depends heavily on context
NYT Connections Answers: 31 January 2026
Here are the answers, grouped by category.
Category 1:
Category 2:
Category 3:
Category 4:
Conclusion & Quick Strategy Tip
The 31 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.
