NYT Connections Hints for Thursday, July 9, 2026

Thursday, July 9, 2026 puzzle #1124. Today's board groups non-alcoholic drink labels, music publications, rug types, and Pontiac models.

Words: THROW, VIRGIN, SPIN, PRAYER, NA, ROLLING STONE, PERSIAN, FIREBIRD, G6, SHAG, ZERO-PROOF, GRAND PRIX, BILLBOARD, TRANS AM, PITCHFORK, SPIRIT-FREE

Spoiler-safe Connections hints

Yellow hint

Look for terms used on drinks or menus when alcohol is absent.

Reveal Yellow category and answer

Non-alcoholic designators: NA, SPIRIT-FREE, VIRGIN, ZERO-PROOF

These four terms all mark a drink as non-alcoholic.

Green hint

Think of outlets known for music charts, reviews, and coverage.

Reveal Green category and answer

Music publications: BILLBOARD, PITCHFORK, ROLLING STONE, SPIN

Billboard, Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and Spin are music publications or brands.

Blue hint

Each word can describe a rug or floor covering.

Reveal Blue category and answer

Kinds of rugs: PERSIAN, PRAYER, SHAG, THROW

Persian, prayer, shag, and throw can each precede rug.

Purple hint

Think of car nameplates from the same automaker.

Reveal Purple category and answer

Pontiac models: FIREBIRD, G6, GRAND PRIX, TRANS AM