If you’re hooked on the daily NYT Strands puzzle, you’re not alone. It’s a fresh word game from the New York Times that combines elements of a word search with clever, theme-based twists.

About today’s puzzle

Theme: “Lip Service”

Today’s Strands is all about what plays across our faces — the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways we communicate without words. The theme “Lip Service” brings out every kind of facial expression, from smiles to sneers.

NYT Strands hints: September 24, 2025

Need a push before peeking at the solutions? Here are eight clever nudges:

  1. Happy Vibes: A couple of answers reflect joy.
  2. Not-So-Happy: Some words show displeasure or disapproval.
  3. Short & Sharp: Expect answers as short as four letters.
  4. Attitude Check: One word drips with sarcasm.
  5. Classic Cartoon Face: Think of how animated characters show frustration.
  6. Opposites Attract: You’ll find both cheerful and gloomy expressions.
  7. Everyday Emotion: These are words you’d use to describe someone’s look in conversation.
  8. Thread It Together: The spangram ties them all into one unifying theme.

NYT Strands answers: September 24, 2025

  • GRIN – a broad, cheeky smile
  • SMILE – the classic happy face
  • POUT – lips pushed out in annoyance
  • FROWN – eyebrows knitted, lips turned down
  • SMIRK – a sly, mocking smile
  • SNEER – an expression of contempt
  • SCOWL – a dark, angry look

Spangram

EXPRESSIONS — the word that connects all of today’s emotions and facial cues.

How Strands works

Strands is a daily word search puzzle with a twist:

  • You’re given a theme.
  • The grid is packed with hidden words tied to that theme.
  • Words can run in any direction, including diagonals.
  • Once you find all the theme words, you’re done!

Each puzzle usually has around 6–8 theme words.

How to get and use hints

Hints are built right into Strands, and they’re super useful if you’re stuck:

  • To earn a hint, find any non-theme word of at least four letters in the grid.
  • Each valid extra word gives you one hint.
  • When you use a hint, one of the theme words will be revealed automatically, helping you move forward.

Pro tip: Don’t just burn hints — use them strategically when the grid feels impossible. Sometimes a single revealed word unlocks the entire board.

Tips to become a NYT Strands pro

  1. Start with obvious words. Look for clear connections to the theme first.
  2. Scan diagonals early. Strands loves to hide words at an angle.
  3. Build around found words. Once one word is cleared, the leftover letters often point to the next.
  4. Use hints wisely. Earn them steadily by spotting extra words, then save them for when you’re truly stuck.
  5. Think about synonyms. The theme clue isn’t always literal — broaden your thinking.

Were you able to strand the words?

Today’s puzzle was a mirror of human emotion. It was fun because it didn’t just test letter-finding skills — it reflected how we show feelings without saying a single word.

September 24’s Strands was a true showcase of mood and expression. From the warmth of a smile to the cold edge of a sneer, every answer brought personality to the grid.