NYT Connections Hints Today: Answers for August 21, 2025

NYT Connections #802: Hints and Answers for August 21, 2025

NYT Connections challenges you to group 16 words into four themed categories. Today’s puzzle (#802) features themes ranging from simple mishaps to whimsical doodles. Below are progressive hints followed by the full answers—use sparingly to preserve the fun!

How to Play Connections

• You have four attempts to assign all 16 words into four color-coded groups.
• Yellow (????) is easiest; Purple (????) is hardest.
• Use “Shuffle” to reposition words and spot patterns.
• A wrong guess locks in that group’s words; proceed carefully.

Hints by Category

???? Yellow – To mess up
Hint: Think synonyms for “mistake” or “error.”

???? Green – Enchanted lands
Hint: Fantastical realms in stories and songs.

???? Blue – Have appendages on top
Hint: Things sporting antennae.

???? Purple – Words or phrases popularly paired with “doodle”
Hint: Precede “doodle” to form familiar compound terms.

Answers

???? BLUNDER (To mess up)

• BOO-BOO
• FLUB
• GAFFE
• NO-NO

???? LANDS OF THE IMAGINATION

• DREAM
• FANTASY
• LA-LA
• NEVER NEVER

???? THINGS WITH ANTENNA/E

• INSECT
• RADIO TOWER
• SATELLITE DISH
• TELETUBBY

???? _ _ _ DOODLE

• CHEESE DOODLE
• DIPSY DOODLE
• GOOGLE DOODLE
• YANKEE DOODLE

Difficulty Rating

This puzzle is a 3 out of 5: moderate challenge with a mix of straightforward and playful connections.

???? Tips to Solve NYT Connections

1. Focus on simplicity: Look for obvious word relationships rather than overthinking ambiguous ones.
2. Watch your attempts: You only get four attempts to place all four categories, so plan carefully.
3. Use the Shuffle button: It can help reveal connections that may be hidden by misdirection.
4. Practice patience: Some puzzles are tricky; come back refreshed for better results.

Keep practicing and see you tomorrow for Connections #803!