Hints and Answers for NYT Connections Puzzle #699 on May 10

NEW YORK, NY – On May 10, 2025, the New York Times released its latest edition of the Connections puzzle, featuring a challenging set of categories that have intrigued players.

The game consists of 16 words, and players must group them into four categories. Each grouping poses a distinct challenge, with themes becoming progressively more difficult. The easier categories are designated in yellow, while the hardest appear in purple.

This edition also includes hints for each category. Players can expect to find groupings under categories like “letter sign-offs” and “vigor.” For the yellow group, words include BEST, CHEERS, LOVE, and SINCERELY. The green group is themed “without,” featuring ABSENT, MINUS, SANS, and WANTING.

In the blue category, the theme is “vigor,” with words BEANS, ENERGY, PEP, and ZIP. Lastly, the purple group has a theme of “___ strip,” consisting of BACON, COMIC, LANDING, and SUNSET.

The game’s mechanics require players to select four words they believe share a common link and submit them. If successful, the category and color are revealed. However, players are allowed only a limited number of incorrect attempts before the game concludes, revealing the answers.

Several strategies can be applied while playing Connections, including looking for words that seem out of place or reading hints provided to guide participants towards the correct answers. The game encourages critical thinking and word association.

As players engage with this puzzle, there’s an ongoing community discussion around tactics and strategies for solving these complex word groupings.