NYT Connections Hint - July 29, 2025

Hey there, word warriors! 🌟 Can you believe it’s another day for Connections? Today’s puzzle had me scratching my head in the funniest ways. Seriously, some of these categories were like riddles from my childhood! You know, the ones that you think you’ve outgrown but surprise you with their trickiness! Let’s dive in!

Word Explanations

• SPECIAL

  • When I hear 'SPECIAL,' I think of unique events or offers! Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime sale or just that great day when your friend treats you to pizza, it’s all about the joy of something extra that comes along. Did ya know 'special' can also mean having a specific purpose? Crazy right?

• BUG

  • BUG—it’s a word that has layered meanings. From pesky little critters that invade picnics to annoying software glitches that ruin your day, bugs are everywhere! Just the other day, my laptop was 'bugged' by a nasty virus. Ugh!

• RAISE

  • To RAISE is to elevate something, right? Think of raising a toast or raising the stakes in poker. There's something thrilling about that lift, metaphorically and literally. I mean, who doesn’t enjoy raising their glass and celebrating? 🎉

• FIST

  • FIST literally conjures up images of vigor! Whether it’s a fist bump to greet a friend or a classic gym pump, it’s all about putting energy into action. Fun fact: did you know that in some cultures, a fist symbolizes strength? Just think of all those epic movie moments!

• STEAM

  • STEAM might make you think of a steaming cup of coffee (yum!). But it’s also related to pressure and heat, making it perfect for both cooking and science experiments! Just last week, I experimented with a steam cooker for veggies. So delicious!

• PROMOTION

  • PROMOTION is all about climbing higher in work or taking advantage of special discounts! I recently got a promotion, and let me tell you—it felt like Christmas morning! Who doesn’t love to feel appreciated? 🎊

• IRON

  • IRON is a strong word. Whether we’re talking about iron in its raw form or it’s time to iron those shirts, it brings to mind strength. Plus, who can forget the iconic phrase ‘iron will’? I can! Just last week, I tried to lift an iron weight and nearly dropped it. Yikes!

• FOLD

  • FOLD often makes me think of origami or delightful little napkins at fancy restaurants. But in poker? It’s a crucial move. Just the other night, my buddy folded after my bluff, and I thought I had a chance of winning! Life lessons in every hand!

• DEAL

  • DEAL! Let’s get talking about deals! This word is synonymous with making agreements and exchanging fun treasures. Whether dealing cards or striking business deals, it’s about transactions. Plus, everyone loves a good deal on clothes! 😄

• CHECK

  • CHECK is that satisfying moment when you evaluate something. Check your balance, check your shipment, and in cards—check the pot! It’s a simple word, yet it packs a lot of punches. Think of it as a double-check. It’s all about assurance.

• GAS

  • GAS makes me think of filling up my tank. Ugh, gas prices! But it’s also a term for energy, as in heating systems or even someone being gassy after a meal. 😅 Talk about versatility! What a word!

• RUFFLE

  • RUFFLE is about disruption—think feathers and feathers! It takes one calming breeze to ruffle your perfect hairdo. It reminds me of those cute ducks wading in the water, just getting everything tousled! So endearing, right?

• CALL

  • CALL—the classic poker move. It’s like saying, ‘I’m in!’ without risking too much. It’s a moment of tension, excitement, and fun all rolled into one. Just like a good game night with friends, right?

• BRAKES

  • BRAKES are essential—think safety! From car brakes that save lives to those metaphorical moments when you need to take a breather, it’s all about stopping. I once hit the brakes too late and learned my lesson!

• NETTLE

  • NETTLE makes me think of those prickly plants that surprise you when you try to touch them! Ouch! These guys are notorious for their sting. Just goes to show, not everything nature presents is friendly!

• SALE

  • SALE, oh glorious sale! It’s like a golden ticket for shoppers. The word captures the essence of getting more while spending less. Isn’t the thrill of discounts what makes shopping so exciting?

Theme Hints

1. DISCOUNT

   • Bargain hunters unite! Look for words that make your wallet happier. 💸

2. IRRITATE

   • What might bother you on a sunny afternoon? Find words that irritate both nature and tech! 🌿💻

3. POKER ACTIONS

   • Think of what you do when you want to up the ante! 🃏

4. THINGS YOU CAN PUMP

   • What requires a little muscle? Think of actions that need a bit of a push!

Answers Explanation

Wow, today was a rollercoaster of words! I had a ton of fun puzzling through the categories and love that there's always something new to learn. Until next time, happy puzzling! ✌️