Today's NYT Connections Answers: Puzzle #688 (April 29)

Mei Lin

3 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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Understanding the NYT Connections Puzzle Format

Before diving into the answers for Puzzle #688, let's quickly review the rules for those unfamiliar with the NYT Connections game. The objective is simple yet challenging: find the single word that connects ten seemingly unrelated words. This requires lateral thinking, word association, and a knack for identifying subtle relationships. It's a test of your vocabulary and your ability to make unexpected connections.

• Each puzzle presents 10 words.
• The goal is to find the one word that connects all of them. This connecting word can be a synonym, an antonym, or a word conceptually linked to all others.
• Synonyms and related words are crucial to solving the puzzle. A thesaurus often proves invaluable.
• Consider different types of relationships: Think about shared characteristics, opposites, categories, or even sounds.

NYT Connections Puzzle #688: The Answers

Now, let's tackle Puzzle #688. Remember, the key is to find the single word that connects all ten clues. The solution for Puzzle #688 is "TIME."

Clue 1: MINUTE

The connection is obvious here. A minute is a unit of time. This sets the stage for the overall theme of the puzzle.

Clue 2: ERA

An era is a significant period of time in history. Think of the Victorian era or the Mesozoic era.

Clue 3: SEASON

Seasons are divisions of the year, marking the passage of time. We experience spring, summer, autumn, and winter across the cycle of a year.

Clue 4: CLOCK

A clock is a device used to measure time. Its hands and numbers visually represent the flow of time.

Clue 5: FOREVER

Forever signifies an infinite span of time, contrasting with the shorter time units in other clues.

Clue 6: SECOND

Like "minute," a second is a specific unit of time. It's a smaller measure within a larger time frame.

Clue 7: INSTANT

An instant refers to a very short period of time. It represents a fleeting moment.

Clue 8: DECADE

A decade represents a period of ten years – a larger unit of time.

Clue 9: PAST

The past refers to a period of time before the present. It represents a significant chunk of elapsed time.

Clue 10: HOUR

An hour, much like a minute or second, is a unit of measurement for time.

Tips and Tricks for Solving Future NYT Connections Puzzles

Solving NYT Connections puzzles regularly will sharpen your word association skills and improve your lateral thinking. Here are some valuable tips:

• Start by focusing on the words you know best. Build from there, using those as anchors for connecting the remaining words.
• Use a dictionary or thesaurus to find synonyms and related words. This is crucial for uncovering hidden links.
• Try to think outside the box. The connections aren't always immediately apparent; sometimes the solution requires an indirect approach.
• Don't be afraid to guess! Even if you're unsure, testing potential connections can lead you to the solution. Eliminate what doesn't work.
• Look for different types of relationships: synonyms, antonyms, related concepts, and even shared phonetic elements can all be clues.

Conclusion

We've successfully solved NYT Connections Puzzle #688, with the unifying answer being "TIME." Understanding the subtle yet significant relationships between seemingly unrelated words is key to mastering this puzzle. Remember to utilize various word association techniques and don't be afraid to explore different avenues of thought.

Share your answers and strategies for future puzzles! Did you find a different connection? Let us know! Keep coming back for more NYT Connections Answers!