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Connections Hints for February 4, 2026 #968

Pro tip: Tap each section to reveal answers one at a time. If you just need a gentle hint, get the connection hint for February 4, 2026 #968

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 2026-02-04. 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 — February 4, 2026

Green Category — February 4, 2026

Blue Category — February 4, 2026

Purple Category — February 4, 2026

Tricky Words in Today's Connections

Definitions for the most unusual words in today's puzzle

Purple group — STARTING WITH NBA TEAMS

Why is “NETSCAPE” in the Purple group?

relating to the New Jersey Nets, now known as the Brooklyn Nets

Purple group — STARTING WITH NBA TEAMS

Why is “BULLSEYE” in the Purple group?

relating to the Chicago Bulls

Word definitions

Tricky words in today's Connections (February 4, 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.

WAR
Definition: a card game
Why it's tricky: commonly refers to a state of conflict between nations
BOUT
Definition: a short period of time
Why it's tricky: can also refer to a boxing match
ROUND
Definition: approximately
Why it's tricky: has multiple meanings, including a circular shape or a stage in a competition
MAGICAL
Definition: relating to the Orlando Magic NBA team
Why it's tricky: typically refers to something having a mysterious or enchanting quality

Connections #968 explained

Why these words connect (February 4, 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: CONTENTION

These words all describe types of conflict or disagreement, often used to describe tense or opposing relationships.

Green group: GAMES OF CHANCE

These words all describe games where the outcome is determined by chance, often involving betting or wagering.

Blue group: MORE OR LESS, COLLOQUIALLY

These words are all used to describe something that is approximate or not exact, often used in informal language.

Purple group: STARTING WITH NBA TEAMS

These words all start with the names of NBA teams, often used to describe the team or its characteristics.

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.

WAR

Seems like it belongs to: CONTENTION

Actually belongs to: GAMES OF CHANCE

Although war can be a conflict, in this context, it refers to a card game. The word's common meaning as a state of conflict between nations makes it a tricky fit for the CONTENTION category.

HEATED

Seems like it belongs to: CONTENTION

Actually belongs to: STARTING WITH NBA TEAMS

HEATED seems like it could fit with conflict or contention, but it actually refers to the Miami Heat NBA team.

Today's Tricky Traps — Red Herrings Explained

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

Why “WAR” didn't go with CONTENTION

Seems like: CONTENTION → Actually: GAMES OF CHANCE

Although war can be a conflict, in this context, it refers to a card game. The word's common meaning as a state of conflict between nations makes it a tricky fit for the CONTENTION category.

Why “HEATED” didn't go with CONTENTION

Seems like: CONTENTION → Actually: STARTING WITH NBA TEAMS

HEATED seems like it could fit with conflict or contention, but it actually refers to the Miami Heat NBA team.

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