The “Connections” game from the NEW YORK TIMES can be a real brain-teaser. The challenge is to sort 12 seemingly random words into four groups, identifying the common thread that links them. Some categories are obvious, while others require more abstract thinking. If you’re struggling with today’s puzzle, keep reading for hints and the answers.

If you’re already familiar with the rules, feel free to skip ahead. But if you’re new to the game, or just need a reminder, remember to think creatively. “Connections” frequently enough uses misdirection.For example,words might seem related to a specific topic,but the actual connection is more subtle. The key is to look for hidden patterns and associations. However, some puzzles are genuinely tough, so if you’re still stuck, check out the solutions below.

Connections Hints for June 07

Think beyond what a word means literally, try to see subtle patterns, and your luck with Connections will improve drastically.

Here are the words in today’s “Connections” puzzle, along with some hints to guide you:

• FOUND
• NUMBER
• STRAIN
• ONION
• STRETCH
• AIR
• FLING
• LAUNCH
• START
• REST
• CHICKEN
• INSTITUTE
• BREATHE
• EQUINOX
• HYDRATE
• SONG

Here are four hints to nudge you in the right direction:

• Yellow: Activities related to exercise.
• Green: Words that mean “to create”.
• Blue: Types of musical compositions.
• Purple: Follows a specific season.

Connections Groups for June 07

Still having trouble? Here are the categories for each group:

• Yellow: Workout tips.
• Green: Establish.
• Blue: Ditty.
• purple: Spring __.

Connections Answers for June 07

Ready for the answers? Here’s the solution to “Connections” #727:

• Yellow: Tips for working out safely (BREATHE,HYDRATE,REST,STRETCH)
• Green: Establish (FOUND,INSTITUTE,LAUNCH,START)
• Blue: Ditty (AIR,NUMBER,SONG,STRAIN)
• Purple: Spring __ (CHICKEN,EQUINOX,FLING,ONION)