The New York Times Connections puzzle for July 9, 2026 (Puzzle #1124) brings together four cleverly disguised categories: non-alcoholic drink labels, music publications, rug types, and classic Pontiac car models. The grid starts off accessible but builds to a challenging purple category that rewards careful thinking.
How NYT Connections Works
In Connections, players sort 16 words into four hidden groups of four. Each group shares a common theme or meaning. Colors indicate difficulty: yellow (easiest), green (moderate), blue (challenging), and purple (trickiest). You have limited mistakes, so strategy matters.
Today’s Words List
Here are the 16 words in the July 9 grid:
- ZERO-PROOF
- BILLBOARD
- VIRGIN
- G6
- GRAND PRIX
- SPIN
- PERSIAN
- PRAYER
- SHAG
- THROW
- FIREBIRD
- NA
- SPIRIT-FREE
- TRANS AM
- PITCHFORK
- ROLLING STONE
Hints for Each Category
Yellow Group: Think of common terms for non-alcoholic drinks.
Green Group: These words are associated with media companies.
Blue Group: These are types of floor coverings.
Purple Group: These are actually car models.
One-Word Hints
If you need a little more help, here’s one word from each category:
- Yellow: NA
- Green: PITCHFORK
- Blue: SHAG
- Purple: TRANS AM
Full Answers for July 9, 2026
Yellow Group (NON-ALCOHOLIC DESIGNATORS): NA, SPIRIT-FREE, VIRGIN, ZERO-PROOF
Green Group (MUSIC PUBLICATIONS): BILLBOARD, PITCHFORK, ROLLING STONE, SPIN
Blue Group (KINDS OF RUGS): PERSIAN, PRAYER, SHAG, THROW
Purple Group (PONTIAC MODELS): FIREBIRD, G6, GRAND PRIX, TRANS AM
Why This Puzzle Stands Out
The July 9 edition offers a balanced mix of everyday vocabulary and niche knowledge. The yellow and green categories are approachable, while the blue and purple groups demand a broader cultural awareness. The overlapping themes make it a satisfying challenge for both newcomers and seasoned solvers.