The New York Times Connections puzzle returns today with another challenging set of 16 words to group into four related categories. Puzzle #1124, released on Thursday, July 9, 2026, ranges from familiar terms to music media and classic automobiles.
If you’d like a hint before seeing the full solution, start with the clues below. Scroll further only when you’re ready for today’s answers.
NYT Connections Hints for July 9, 2026
Yellow Group Hint
Words used to indicate a drink contains no alcohol.
Green Group Hint
Well-known publications covering music.
Blue Group Hint
Different kinds of rugs.
Purple Group Hint
Models made by a historic American automobile manufacturer.
NYT Connections Answers for Today (July 9, 2026)
🟨 Yellow – Non-Alcoholic Designators
- NA
- Spirit-Free
- Virgin
- Zero-Proof
🟩 Green – Music Publications
- Billboard
- Pitchfork
- Rolling Stone
- Spin
🟦 Blue – Kinds of Rugs
- Persian
- Prayer
- Shag
- Throw
🟪 Purple – Pontiac Models
- Firebird
- G6
- Grand Prix
- Trans Am
Puzzle Analysis
Today’s puzzle blends familiar vocabulary with niche knowledge. The Yellow category is relatively approachable once players recognize the terms associated with alcohol-free drinks. The Green category requires familiarity with music publications, while the Blue category focuses on different kinds of rugs.
The Purple category is the most challenging, especially for players unfamiliar with classic Pontiac models. Firebird, G6, Grand Prix, and Trans Am all belong to the former Pontiac brand.
Difficulty Rating
- 🟨 Yellow: Easy
- 🟩 Green: Moderate
- 🟦 Blue: Moderate
- 🟪 Purple: Hard
Overall, Puzzle #1124 earns a 4/5 difficulty rating thanks to its specialized Purple category and several misleading word associations.
How to Play NYT Connections
Connections is a daily word game from The New York Times in which players sort 16 words into four groups of four based on a shared connection. Categories can range from straightforward themes to subtle wordplay, and players have four mistakes before the game ends.
A new Connections puzzle is released every day.
