Green group — WAYS TO APPLY PAINT
Why is “PALETTE KNIFE” in the Green group?
a flexible, flat tool used to mix and apply paint
Connections Hints for January 31, 2026 #964
Pro tip: Tap each section to reveal answers one at a time. If you just need a gentle hint, get the connection hint for January 31, 2026 #964
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Yellow Category — January 31, 2026
Green Category — January 31, 2026
Blue Category — January 31, 2026
Purple Category — January 31, 2026
Tricky Words in Today's Connections
▼Definitions for the most unusual words in today's puzzle
Tricky Words in Today's Connections
▼Blue group — Y-SHAPED THINGS
Why is “STETHOSCOPE” in the Blue group?
a medical instrument used to listen to the heartbeat and breathing
Word definitions
Tricky words in today's Connections (January 31, 2026)
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.
- SHIFT
- Definition: a change in position or direction
- Why it's tricky: has multiple meanings, including a computer key, a dress, or a work period
- MIXER
- Definition: a social gathering
- Why it's tricky: can also refer to a kitchen appliance
- RECEPTION
- Definition: a social gathering, especially to celebrate a special occasion
- Why it's tricky: can also refer to the act of receiving something
- ROLLER
- Definition: a tool used to apply paint
- Why it's tricky: can also refer to a cylindrical object that rotates
Connections #964 explained
Why these words connect (January 31, 2026)
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: KINDS OF PARTIES
These are all types of social gatherings, including formal and informal events.
Green group: WAYS TO APPLY PAINT
These are all tools used to apply paint, including traditional and modern methods.
Blue group: Y-SHAPED THINGS
These are all objects that have a distinctive Y-shape, including tools and symbols.
Purple group: WHAT "SHIFT" MIGHT REFER TO
These are all possible meanings of the word 'shift', including a computer key, a type of dress, and a work period.
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.
“BALL”
Seems like it belongs to: Y-SHAPED THINGS
Actually belongs to: KINDS OF PARTIES
while a ball can be shaped like a sphere, it is also a type of party, which is why it belongs to the KINDS OF PARTIES group
“DRESS”
Seems like it belongs to: KINDS OF PARTIES
Actually belongs to: WHAT "SHIFT" MIGHT REFER TO
while a dress can be worn to a party, the word 'shift' can also refer to a type of dress, which is why it belongs to the WHAT "SHIFT" MIGHT REFER TO group
Today's Tricky Traps — Red Herrings Explained
These words look like they belong in one group but actually fit somewhere else entirely.
Why “BALL” didn't go with Y-SHAPED THINGS
Seems like: Y-SHAPED THINGS → Actually: KINDS OF PARTIES
while a ball can be shaped like a sphere, it is also a type of party, which is why it belongs to the KINDS OF PARTIES group
Why “DRESS” didn't go with KINDS OF PARTIES
Seems like: KINDS OF PARTIES → Actually: WHAT "SHIFT" MIGHT REFER TO
while a dress can be worn to a party, the word 'shift' can also refer to a type of dress, which is why it belongs to the WHAT "SHIFT" MIGHT REFER TO group