Blue group — PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP
Why is “CROW'S NEST” in the Blue group?
a raised platform on a ship for lookout, providing a high vantage point
Connections Hints for March 31, 2026 #1023
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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
Tricky Words in Today's Connections
▼Blue group — PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP
Why is “JOLLY ROGER” in the Blue group?
the traditional flag of a pirate ship, often 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, wooden board
- Why it's tricky: can also refer to a pose in exercise or a political platform
- CROW'S NEST
- Definition: a raised platform on a ship for lookout
- Why it's tricky: can also refer to a bird's nest
- KIT KAT
- Definition: a type of candy bar, also a colloquial term for a kitten
- Why it's tricky: can be confused with other types of candy or animals
- CALF
- Definition: a young cow, also a muscle in the leg
- Why it's tricky: multiple meanings can cause confusion
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 being without something, often implying a need or deficiency. They can be used in various contexts to convey a sense of scarcity or inadequacy.
Green group: PARTS OF A PIRATE SHIP
These words are all parts of a pirate ship, each serving a unique purpose in the vessel's operation. From the crow's nest to the plank, they are all essential components of a pirate's domain.
Blue group: KINDS OF BRAS
These words are all types of bras, each designed for a specific purpose or style. From push-up to plunge, they cater to different needs and preferences.
Purple group: STARTING WITH BABY ANIMALS
These words are all phrases that start with the name of a baby animal, often used to create clever or catchy expressions. From calf raise to chick flick, they are all examples of this linguistic phenomenon.
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 imply a decrease, it's actually a type of bra, and the word's multiple meanings can cause confusion
“KIT KAT”
Seems like it belongs to: KINDS OF BRAS
Actually belongs to: STARTING WITH BABY ANIMALS
the candy bar's name is also a colloquial term for a kitten, leading to potential confusion
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 imply a decrease, it's actually a type of bra, and the word's multiple meanings can cause confusion
Why “KIT KAT” didn't go with KINDS OF BRAS
Seems like: KINDS OF BRAS → Actually: STARTING WITH BABY ANIMALS
the candy bar's name is also a colloquial term for a kitten, leading to potential confusion