Connections Hints: May 16, 2026
This page shows spoiler-layered hints for the NYT Connections puzzle published on May 16, 2026 (2026-05-16). Step through the hints in order and only reveal the full group breakdown when you're ready.
Meta: Puzzle #1149
Puzzle #1149 · 2026-05-16
Step through today’s Connections hints
Start with broad themes, then reveal more detail about the groups and tiles only when you need it. The final button shows today's full group breakdown.
Hint 1 – overall theme
There are 4 groups in today’s puzzle.
Themes include: GLASSWARE, MESS AROUND (WITH), MUSIC PERFORMANCE DIRECTIONS and 1 more.
Hint 2 – group titles
Here are the category names for each group. Try matching the tiles in the official game to these themes before you reveal any tiles.
- GLASSWARE
- MESS AROUND (WITH)
- MUSIC PERFORMANCE DIRECTIONS
- ENDING IN SYNONYMS FOR "ASAP"
Hint 3 – group tiles
Reveal the tiles for each group. If you only want a partial nudge, stop after reading one or two groups and go back to the official puzzle.
GLASSWARE
MESS AROUND (WITH)
MUSIC PERFORMANCE DIRECTIONS
ENDING IN SYNONYMS FOR "ASAP"
Reveal full answer
This is the full breakdown of today's Connections puzzle: group titles and all tiles, grouped together.
GLASSWARE
MESS AROUND (WITH)
MUSIC PERFORMANCE DIRECTIONS
ENDING IN SYNONYMS FOR "ASAP"
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