Leave it to The New York Times to have an addicting yet educational word game to crack! Since Connections is one of the publication’s most popular games, the answer for today, December 27, 2024, was a tough one to solve. Luckily, we’ve got the hints and the final answer to today’s puzzle.
“Connections” editor Wyna Liu is familiar with the frustration players have when they can’t solve a game. While speaking with Slate in July 2024, Liu described the process behind developing each game. “The process is I have a notebook where I keep down category ideas. And when I sit down to make boards, I’ll take one of those ideas, I’ll take those words, and then I’ll start spinning off of them,” Liu said. “And then, the boards will be built from [these words], and sometimes it goes in surprising directions. I feel like that's sort of one of the most joyful things about making games.”
So, how do you play Connections? The game begins with a set of 16 words presented in a grid, challenging players to figure out how these words connect. Groups consist of four words each, and the difficulty of associated categories is indicated with colors: yellow for the easier ones, green and blue for moderate difficulties, and purple for the most challenging.
After making guesses, players click “submit,” with the category color changing to represent correctness if they are correct. The game model promotes engagement and even competition, with users sharing daily wins and strategies on platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
Here are some hints for today’s puzzle:
- People eat these in the morning.
- Something to click or activate by touching it.
- This makes the “honking” sound.
- These are famous people who won a specific award.
Now, for the all-important answer to today’s Connections game:
- Breakfast Sides: Bacon, Grits, Hash, Toast
- Pushes, as a Button: Clicks, Hits, Presses, Taps
- They Have a Horn: Africa, Bugler, Car, Unicorn
- Oscar-winning Actors: Bridges, Irons, Phoenix, Washington
If you're new to NYT Connections, you'll find it accessible via the NYT website or the Games app. Each daily puzzle refreshes at midnight, prompting players to engage their vocabulary skills actively and seek hidden connections between the words.
This captivating daily puzzle has quickly garnered attention among word game enthusiasts across the globe, largely due to its engaging design and social elements. Liu's insight on the game reinforces how every board is crafted with creativity and engagement.
New players may want to explore the hints for improved gameplay. Reach out to friends to share strategies, track your progress, or even start your gaming group over social media!
So, gear up for another day of challenge with Connections—it’s not only fun, but it also keeps your mind sharp! Players are encouraged to “keep at it” and learn from each round, as persistence is key. Don't forget to check back tomorrow for new hints and solutions, making your own strides through this word puzzle phenomenon!
