NYT Connections Hints for January 9, 2026 (#998)
Game
FORTH
LEST
CARDINAL
DIRECTION
8 BALL
SOLO CUP
NON BLONDES
OAST
3 BALL
THIN ICE
HEART EMOJI
CHAINZ
6 MAFIA
DEEP END
COUTH
LIMB
Categories
Hints by Category
THINGS THAT ARE RED
Back to CategoriesObjects or symbols commonly associated with the color red
3 BALL
In pool/billiards, the 3-ball is traditionally red in color.
CARDINAL
A bright red bird species native to North America, also known as the Northern Cardinal.
HEART EMOJI
The ❤️ emoji, universally recognized as red and symbolizing love or affection.
SOLO CUP
The classic red plastic cup commonly used at parties and gatherings in the US.
USED IN METAPHORS FOR PRECARIOUS SITUATIONS
Back to CategoriesCommon English idioms describing risky or unstable circumstances
8 BALL
From 'behind the eight ball' - meaning in a difficult or disadvantageous position.
DEEP END
From 'thrown into the deep end' - meaning forced to handle a difficult situation without preparation.
LIMB
From 'out on a limb' - meaning in a risky or exposed position with little support.
THIN ICE
From 'on thin ice' - meaning in a risky situation where one might face consequences.
MUSICAL ARTISTS MINUS STARTING NUMBERS
Back to CategoriesNames of musical artists/groups with their initial numbers removed
6 MAFIA
Refers to 'Three 6 Mafia' (hip-hop group) without the 'Three'.
CHAINZ
Refers to '2 Chainz' (rapper) without the '2'.
DIRECTION
Refers to 'One Direction' (boy band) without the 'One'.
NON BLONDES
Refers to '4 Non Blondes' (alternative rock band) without the '4'.
CARDINAL DIRECTIONS WITH FIRST LETTER CHANGED
Back to CategoriesCardinal directions (North, East, South, West) with their first letters altered to form new words
COUTH
From 'South' with 'S' changed to 'C' - meaning sophisticated or refined.
FORTH
From 'North' with 'N' changed to 'F' - meaning forward in place or time.
LEST
From 'West' with 'W' changed to 'L' - meaning to avoid the risk of.
OAST
From 'East' with 'E' changed to 'O' - a kiln for drying hops in brewing.