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Connections Hints for July 5, 2023 #23

Pro tip: Tap each section to reveal answers one at a time. If you just need a gentle hint, get the connection hint for July 5, 2023 #23

Want to see NYT Connections hints? Below you'll find complete solutions and explanations. Want to try solving it yourself first? Visit the NYT Connections game 2023-07-05. Looking for today's NYT Connections hint? Head to our home page or play today's connection game here.

Navigation tip: Use the arrows below to browse through past puzzles. Each puzzle is organized from easiest (yellow) to hardest (purple) categories.

Yellow Category — July 5, 2023

Green Category — July 5, 2023

Blue Category — July 5, 2023

Purple Category — July 5, 2023

Tricky Words in Today's Connections

Definitions for the most unusual words in today's puzzle

Blue group — EAR PARTS

Why is “COCHLEA” in the Blue group?

the spiral-shaped structure in the ear responsible for hearing

Blue group — EAR PARTS

Why is “STIRRUP” in the Blue group?

a small bone in the ear, also a riding equipment

Word definitions

Tricky words in today's Connections (July 5, 2023)

Several words in today's puzzle have multiple meanings or obscure definitions that can throw you off. Here's what each one means in the context of this Connections grid.

SUM
Definition: a mathematical operation
Why it's tricky: could be mistaken for a band name
U
Definition: a letter, also a band name
Why it's tricky: short and ambiguous
HAMMER
Definition: a part of the ear
Why it's tricky: more commonly known as a tool
SWITCH
Definition: a video game console
Why it's tricky: also a common verb

Connections #23 explained

Why these words connect (July 5, 2023)

Understanding the logic behind each group helps you spot similar patterns in future puzzles. Here's the reasoning for every category in today's Connections.

Yellow group: CANDY BARS

These are all popular candy bars, known for their unique flavors and textures. They are widely available in stores and online.

Green group: VIDEO GAME CONSOLES

These are all popular video game consoles, known for their innovative technology and exclusive games. They have been released over the years, with some being more successful than others.

Blue group: EAR PARTS

These are all small bones and structures in the ear, responsible for hearing and balance. They work together to help us perceive sound and maintain our equilibrium.

Purple group: BAND NAMES MINUS NUMBERS

These are all band names, with the numbers removed from their original names. They are known for their unique sounds and styles, and have gained popularity over the years.

Red herrings and trap words explained

These words were designed to mislead you. Understanding why they don't belong where you first think sharpens your game for tomorrow.

CRUNCH

Seems like it belongs to: VIDEO GAME CONSOLES

Actually belongs to: CANDY BARS

sounds like a gaming term, but is actually a candy bar

SUM

Seems like it belongs to: MATH

Actually belongs to: BAND NAMES MINUS NUMBERS

a mathematical term, but also a band name

Today's Tricky Traps — Red Herrings Explained

These words look like they belong in one group but actually fit somewhere else entirely.

Why “CRUNCH” didn't go with VIDEO GAME CONSOLES

Seems like: VIDEO GAME CONSOLES → Actually: CANDY BARS

sounds like a gaming term, but is actually a candy bar

Why “SUM” didn't go with MATH

Seems like: MATH → Actually: BAND NAMES MINUS NUMBERS

a mathematical term, but also a band name

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