Need a nudge on NYT Connections #942 for Thursday, January 8, 2026? Start with the graduated hints below; the category names and full word groups follow farther down, so you can stop before seeing more than you want.
Hints for Connections #942
Try these clues in order. Each one narrows the theme without revealing the four answer words.
- Yellow: Think of physical sensations that can accompany a powerful feeling.
- Green: These are actions that can break a rule or regulation.
- Blue: Look for examples of a simple machine in the lever family.
- Purple: Each word begins with the name of a candy bar.
Category names
- Yellow: A bit of a response to strong emotions
- Green: Break the rules
- Blue: First-class levers
- Purple: Starting with candy bars
Full answers and explanations
Yellow: A bit of a response to strong emotions
CHILL, GOOSEBUMP, SHIVER, TINGLE are bodily sensations that can arise with a strong emotional response.
Green: Break the rules
JAYWALK, LITTER, LOITER, SPEED can each describe conduct that violates a rule or regulation.
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Blue: First-class levers
CLOTHESPIN, CROWBAR, SCISSORS, SEESAW fit the simple-machine category: each is associated with first-class lever mechanics.
Purple: Starting with candy bars
AEROPLANE, DOVETAIL, HEATHERS, MARSALA begin with the candy-bar names Aero, Dove, Heath, and Mars, respectively.
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How to approach the puzzle’s different patterns
The groups reward four different kinds of recognition: noticing bodily reactions, identifying rule-breaking actions, applying basic lever knowledge, and spotting familiar names hidden at the starts of longer words. If one set feels elusive, check whether you are grouping by meaning, real-world function, or a word’s first few letters.
Connections asks players to sort 16 items into four groups of four. Puzzle guides report that it can be played on the NYT Games website or app; archive access is described as available to eligible subscribers. Check the current NYT Games product page for the latest access details.
Quick Recap
Sources
- Forbes’ January 7, 2026, hints guide identifies the date, puzzle number, categories, word groups, and basic play context.
- Forbes’ January 7, 2026, answer explainer explains how the groupings fit.
- Yahoo Tech’s January 8, 2026, guide independently reports the answers.
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