Need a nudge for Sunday, February 1’s NYT Connections? Start with the spoiler-light hints below, then open the answer sections when you’re ready. This is puzzle #966.
Hints for Connections #966
Try these from least to most revealing:
- One group is about getting the word out.
- One group names footwear styles.
- One group uses informal words for a standout song.
- Look for four words that conceal musical instruments near their ends.
Category hints
- Yellow: Build them up.
- Blue: Floor-filler words.
- Green: Types of footwear.
- Purple: Front-loaded orchestra.
Answers for February 1
Spoilers below.
Yellow — PUBLICIZE
BOOST, HYPE, PITCH, PLUG
Each can mean promoting or drawing attention to something.
Blue — ANTHEM
BANGER, BOP, HEATER, JAM
These are informal terms for a strong or memorable song.
Green — KINDS OF SHOES
CLOG, FLAT, MULE, WEDGE
Purple — MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS PLUS STARTING LETTER
GLUTE, MORGAN, SHARP, THORN
Each word ends in an instrument name preceded by one extra letter: GLUTE contains LUTE, MORGAN contains ORGAN, SHARP contains HARP, and THORN contains HORN.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match#1 Best Overall
- Peaceful Words That Feed Your Soul: ZICOTO’s large print word search books for adults features 70 puzzles filled with themes of gratitude, peace, gentleness & strength — a calming word search that turns quiet moments into something truly restorative & uplifting for your well-being
- Crystal Clear & Effortlessly Readable: Every word find puzzle book is printed with a clean, spacious layout; easy to read whether you're relaxing at home, waiting at an appointment or traveling — a word search books for adults large print edition that's a joy to use
- Thoughtfully Designed For Comfort: The spiral binding lays perfectly flat on any surface while rounded corners feel smooth in your hands; this puzzles book makes it easy to settle in and enjoy with mindfulness— words are hidden horizontally, vertically, diagonally & in reverse with all answers included
- A Gift They'll Actually Love: Whether it's for mom, dad or a friend who deserves a little downtime, the word search book for adults in large print and with gentle, mindful guiding language brings joy, mental stimulation & peaceful entertainment to anyone who opens it
- Looks As Lovely As It Feels: With its elegant matte cover, soft color palette & beautifully organized layout, the 9.1x7.5 inch puzzles book is a stylish companion for any nightstand or coffee table; with calming, minimalist pages and gentle puzzles that promote relaxation and mindful downtime
How to play
Connections asks you to sort sixteen words into four groups of four. The game indicates a correct group, and the cited game guides describe a limit of four mistakes. The puzzle resets at midnight local time. These mechanics and access details are described by third-party guides; consult the NYT Games site or app to play.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Word-list note
Independent answer guides agree on BOP and MORGAN. A displayed list in one guide appears to garble BOP, while Parade transposes MORGAN as “MORAGN”; the consistent answer sets and the instrument pattern support the spellings used here.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
Sources
- TechRadar’s guide to Connections #966, published January 31, 2026.
- TechBoltz’ answers for February 1, 2026.
- Try Hard Guides’ answers for February 1, 2026.
- Parade’s hints and answers.
- Insider Gaming’s clues and answers for #966.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
