Issue #869 Wed 17 Sep
Connections hints — September 17, 2025
Today's grid requires a steady hand and a willingness to separate distinct threads that initially look like they might tangle. Expect a sequence of groups that reward straightforward association before moving into more specific recall.
yellow group 7 nudges
Yellow group
A loose scrap of fabric flapping on a porch railing, or the quiet spin of a garden ornament in the backyard.
Outdoor decorative items
Items found in the same environment
Members are 4–10 letters; first letters F, P, V, W.
THEY'RE BLOWIN' IN THE WIND
One is FLAG.
FLAG · PINWHEEL · VANE · WIND CHIME
green group 7 nudges
Green group
You tell your friend you are staying in, then ten minutes later you are already halfway to the subway.
Reversing a decision
Synonyms for changing position
Members are 6–10 letters; first letters A, B, F, R.
CHANGE ONE’S TUNE
One is ABOUT-FACE.
ABOUT-FACE · BACKPEDAL · FLIP-FLOP · RENEGE
blue group 7 nudges
Blue group
Trying to get the last pair of winter boots into a suitcase that is already full to the brim.
Forceful placement
Synonyms for tight insertion
Members are 3–8 letters; first letters J, S, W.
CRAM
One is JAM.
JAM · SHOEHORN · STUFF · WEDGE
violet group 7 nudges
Violet group
The theme song fades, the credits roll, and you recognize the final word that marks the end of the show.
Television history
Shared components of titles
Members are 6–12 letters; first letters K, N, R, S.
LAST WORDS IN LONG-RUNNING CHILDREN’S SHOW TITLES
One is KANGAROO.
KANGAROO · NEIGHBORHOOD · RAINBOW · STREET