NYT Connections Hint - March 31, 2025

Hello, fellow puzzlers! 🌟 Welcome back to another exciting day of Connections! I swear, these riddles can be tricky—like trying to balance a stack of books on a wobbly table! Today’s words had me scratching my head, especially in that ___PLAY category. I mean, who knew golf terms could sneak their way into word games? 🤔

Word Explanations

• FORE

  • In golf, 'FORE' is that shout you hear to warn others of an incoming golf ball. It’s a bit of an alert, but let’s face it, it’s also a fun word to yell! Plus, 'fore' gives the sense of something ahead, doesn’t it?

• WORD

  • 'WORD' is one of my favorites—it's such a versatile gem! It can refer to a physical word, an expression, or even a promise (e.g., 'My word is my bond'). Also, it’s often our answer when we agree with someone: 'Word!'. Love that!

• DEPOSIT

  • 'DEPOSIT' means putting money into an account, but part of me always thinks about food when I hear it—like 'deposit this delicious slice of pizza right in my mouth, please!' Seriously, banks and food are my two favorite deposits to make! 🍕

• TOO

  • 'TOO' conveys the idea of excess, such as having too many cookies (if that’s even possible)! It’s a little word that holds a lot of weight when expressing how much you love something—like, 'I’d love ice cream, too!' Who can say no to that! 🍦

• PUT AWAY

  • 'PUT AWAY' can mean storing something or finishing your meal—like my mom used to say, 'You’re not leaving the table until you put away that broccoli!' The way she could combine food management and life lesson in one line was unmatched! 😅

• SCREEN

  • When I hear 'SCREEN,' I immediately think of movie nights or gaming marathons! It’s that magical portal to other worlds—whether films, games, or even a fun cat video. You know you can lose hours down that rabbit hole! 🎬

• ATE

  • 'ATE' feels so simple but is a true testament to experiences—eating pasta at Grandma’s house or devouring donuts with friends! Honestly, my fondest memories often revolve around meals shared at the table. Food = Love! 🍩

• BALANCE

  • 'BALANCE' doesn’t just apply to money; it’s about life too! Finding that equilibrium can be a juggling act, like trying to balance work and play—hence why I love weekends! 🏖️ Plus, it gives me solid vibes of Zen moments.

• BESIDES

  • 'BESIDES' means in addition to, like when you say, 'I want pasta AND garlic bread besides!' That little word packs a punch, like adding flavor to a conversation! It’s essential in making sure we’re covering everything enjoyable! 🍞

• HORSE

  • 'HORSE' brings to mind equestrian sports, peaceful rides through nature, or, if you’re like me, carousel horses! Those majestic creatures or those on the merry-go-round are always delightful. Plus, they make for great stories! 🐴

• TRANSFER

  • 'TRANSFER' can be financial—like moving money to another account—or logistical, like getting from one restaurant to another! It carries that vibe of movement, which is essential in life. Moving forward, quite literally! 🚀

• TO BOOT

  • 'TO BOOT' is an interesting expression; it’s often used to sweeten a deal, like, 'I got a free drink, to boot!' That little phrase adds flavor and extra excitement to whatever you’re discussing! It's a personal favorite in casual chats! 🍻

• HAD

  • 'HAD' can be used to signify possession of something in the past. For example: 'I had pizza yesterday, and it'll always live in my heart.' Such a simple word, but it does a lot of heavy lifting when storytelling! 🍕

• AS WELL

  • 'AS WELL' is typically used to include things or people. Think of it as a polite addition to your list—like saying, 'Oh, can you bring chips as well?' It's essential for courtesy in conversations! 🌮

• TOOK IN

  • 'TOOK IN' means to absorb experiences or literally eat something. I like to think of it as not just filling your belly but also filling your mind with memories! Enjoying good food while savoring life’s moments is what it’s all about! 🍽️

• WITHDRAWAL

  • 'WITHDRAWAL' relates to taking money out of your account, but it can have emotional connotations as well, like experiencing withdrawal from an attachment. The complexities of language never cease to amaze me. Banking and emotions—what a combo, right? 💔

Theme Hints

1. CONSUMED

   • Think about all the ways we digest both food and knowledge!

2. ALSO

   • These words are all about adding something extra, like sprinkles on top of ice cream!

3. ATM OPTIONS

   • Think about what you might do at an ATM—withdraw or deposit?

4. ___PLAY

   • These words relate to activities or games you might enjoy. What do they have in common?

Answers Explanation

What a journey today’s Connections game was! I felt the thrill of connecting these words just right, especially the ones under CONSUMED—it was like gardening, nurturing one clue after another until it bloomed into the right answers. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow has in store for us—hopefully more fun connections! Keep playing, you brave puzzle warriors! 😊