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Connections Hints for September 6, 2023 #86

Pro tip: Tap each section to reveal answers one at a time. If you just need a gentle hint, get the connection hint for September 6, 2023 #86

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Yellow Category — September 6, 2023

Green Category — September 6, 2023

Blue Category — September 6, 2023

Purple Category — September 6, 2023

Tricky Words in Today's Connections

Definitions for the most unusual words in today's puzzle

Yellow group — CREATURES IN FOLKLORE

Why is “GNOME” in the Yellow group?

a mythical creature, often depicted as small and mischievous

Purple group — CHINESE ZODIAC ANIMALS

Why is “TIGER” in the Purple group?

a large cat species, also a symbol in the Chinese zodiac

Word definitions

Tricky words in today's Connections (September 6, 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.

MOLE
Definition: a spy or a small mammal
Why it's tricky: has multiple meanings, can refer to espionage or a burrowing animal
PLANT
Definition: a person placed in a group to gather information
Why it's tricky: can also refer to a living organism, leading to confusion
AGENT
Definition: a person who acts on behalf of another
Why it's tricky: can refer to various professions, including espionage and sales
DRAGON
Definition: a mythical creature or a Chinese zodiac animal
Why it's tricky: has multiple cultural references, leading to confusion

Connections #86 explained

Why these words connect (September 6, 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: CREATURES IN FOLKLORE

These are all creatures from folklore and mythology, often depicted in stories and legends. They are known for their unique characteristics and roles in various cultural traditions.

Green group: FLOWER PARTS

These are all parts of a flower, each serving a specific function in the plant's growth and reproduction. They are essential for the flower's development and survival.

Blue group: ONE INVOLVED IN ESPIONAGE

These are all terms used to describe individuals involved in espionage, often working secretly to gather information or influence events. They may use various tactics and strategies to achieve their goals.

Purple group: CHINESE ZODIAC ANIMALS

These are all animals that represent different years in the Chinese zodiac, each with its own unique characteristics and symbolism. They are used to determine an individual's birth year and associated traits.

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.

LEAF

Seems like it belongs to: FLOWER PARTS

Actually belongs to: none, but could fit in FLOWER PARTS or be a red herring for CHINESE ZODIAC ANIMALS due to the 'leaf' monkey

while a leaf is a plant part, it's not exclusively a flower part, and the 'leaf' monkey is a different concept

HORSE

Seems like it belongs to: CREATURES IN FOLKLORE

Actually belongs to: CHINESE ZODIAC ANIMALS

while horses appear in folklore, this word belongs to the Chinese zodiac animals category

Today's Tricky Traps — Red Herrings Explained

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

Why “LEAF” didn't go with FLOWER PARTS

Seems like: FLOWER PARTS → Actually: none, but could fit in FLOWER PARTS or be a red herring for CHINESE ZODIAC ANIMALS due to the 'leaf' monkey

while a leaf is a plant part, it's not exclusively a flower part, and the 'leaf' monkey is a different concept

Why “HORSE” didn't go with CREATURES IN FOLKLORE

Seems like: CREATURES IN FOLKLORE → Actually: CHINESE ZODIAC ANIMALS

while horses appear in folklore, this word belongs to the Chinese zodiac animals category

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