The New York Times Connections game has captured the attention of word game enthusiasts worldwide. It combines the straightforward appeal of games like Wordle with the intricate demands of logic and pattern recognition puzzles. This unique blend creates a compelling daily challenge that keeps players coming back for more.
What Makes Connections So Addictive?
Every single day, the game presents a fresh 4x4 grid containing sixteen different words. Your mission is to sort these words into four distinct groups. Each group shares a hidden theme that connects the words together. Finding these connections requires sharp observation and clever thinking.
Today's puzzle, number 954 from January 20, 2026, provides a perfect mix of difficulty and enjoyment. It tests your general knowledge and mental agility in equal measure. The game has built a massive global following because it engages both analytical and lateral thinking skills. For many, it has become an essential part of their daily intellectual exercise routine.
Understanding the NYT Connections Game
Connections is far more than a simple word association game. It truly tests your ability to spot relationships between seemingly unrelated terms. These connections can range from very obvious categories to incredibly clever and subtle links.
Unlike many other word games, success in Connections demands careful observation and strategic planning. You cannot win through guesswork alone. The game is easily accessible on both desktop computers and mobile devices, and it remains completely free to play. These factors have all contributed significantly to its widespread popularity. Players often incorporate it into their daily schedules, finding both pleasure and a deep sense of accomplishment upon solving each puzzle.
NYT Connections: Helpful Hints for Today's Puzzle
To assist players without giving away the solutions, here are some strategic hints for the January 20, 2026 puzzle:
- YELLOW: Connect two things closely together.
- GREEN: These are types of a striped insect.
- BLUE: Think about notable water crossings.
- PURPLE: A longing or desire to begin something.
These clues gently nudge players toward recognizing the underlying patterns. They encourage logical deduction and strategic grouping while preserving the core challenge of the puzzle.
NYT Connections Categories for January 20, 2026
Here are the specific connection categories available in today's NYT Connections puzzle:
- YELLOW: INTERTWINE
- GREEN: KINDS OF BEES
- BLUE: FAMOUS BRIDGES
- PURPLE: STARTING WITH SYNONYMS FOR "HANKER FOR"
NYT Connections Answers for January 20, 2026
Below are the four correct word groups for today's puzzle number 954:
- YELLOW - INTERTWINE: LACE, TWIST, WEAVE, WIND
- GREEN - KINDS OF BEES: BUMBLE, CARPENTER, HONEY, KILLER
- BLUE - FAMOUS BRIDGES: BROOKLYN, GOLDEN GATE, RIALTO, TOWER
- PURPLE - STARTING WITH SYNONYMS FOR "HANKER FOR": CRAVEN, DESIREE, NEEDLE, WANTON
About the Author
The TOI Tech Desk is a dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant news from the world of technology to readers of The Times of India. Their news coverage spans a wide spectrum across gadget launches, gadget reviews, trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact technology and the digital universe. Be it how-tos or the latest happenings in AI, cybersecurity, personal gadgets, platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and more; the TOI Tech Desk brings the news with accuracy and authenticity.
