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Connections Hints for March 31, 2026 #1023

Pro tip: Tap each section to reveal answers one at a time. If you just need a gentle hint, get the connection hint for March 31, 2026 #1023

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

Yellow Category — March 31, 2026

Green Category — March 31, 2026

Blue Category — March 31, 2026

Purple Category — March 31, 2026

Tricky Words in Today's Connections

Definitions for the most unusual words in today's puzzle

Blue group — PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP

Why is “CROW'S NEST” in the Blue group?

a raised platform at the top of a mast, used for observation

Blue group — PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP

Why is “JOLLY ROGER” in the Blue group?

the flag flown by pirate ships, typically featuring a skull and crossbones

Word definitions

Tricky words in today's Connections (March 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.

PLANK
Definition: a flat, narrow, and usually rectangular piece of wood
Why it's tricky: can also refer to a type of exercise
CALF
Definition: a young cow
Why it's tricky: can also refer to the lower back of the leg
KIT
Definition: a young rabbit
Why it's tricky: can also refer to a set of articles or a package
CRUNCH
Definition: a state of being in short supply
Why it's tricky: can also refer to a type of snack food

Connections #1023 explained

Why these words connect (March 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: SHORTAGE

These words all describe a state of lacking something, whether it be a physical object or a resource. They are all related to the concept of scarcity.

Green group: PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP

These words all describe parts of a pirate ship, from the flag to the observation deck. They are all related to the Golden Age of Piracy.

Blue group: KINDS OF BRAS

These words all describe different types of bras, from sports bras to push-up bras. They are all related to women's fashion and lingerie.

Purple group: STARTING WITH BABY ANIMALS

These words all start with the name of a baby animal, from calf to chick. They are all related to the concept of youth and development.

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.

PLUNGE

Seems like it belongs to: SHORTAGE

Actually belongs to: KINDS OF BRAS

while 'plunge' can refer to a decrease, in this context it refers to a type of bra

PINCH

Seems like it belongs to: PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP

Actually belongs to: SHORTAGE

while 'pinch' can refer to a pirate's grip, in this context it refers to a state of being in short supply

Today's Tricky Traps — Red Herrings Explained

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

Why “PLUNGE” didn't go with SHORTAGE

Seems like: SHORTAGE → Actually: KINDS OF BRAS

while 'plunge' can refer to a decrease, in this context it refers to a type of bra

Why “PINCH” didn't go with PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP

Seems like: PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP → Actually: SHORTAGE

while 'pinch' can refer to a pirate's grip, in this context it refers to a state of being in short supply

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