NYT Strands Puzzle Hints and Answers for 17 January 2026

Hints

Today’s NYT Connections Puzzle presents an intriguing challenge with its theme: “That’s putting it mildly!” This puzzle focuses on playful interjections, making it a delightful yet tricky endeavor for puzzle enthusiasts. Spotting the hidden words can get you started on the right path, so here are a few group clues to guide your search.

When hunting for clues, prioritize finding words that fit the PG-rated interjection theme. As you work through the letters, think about expressions that convey a light-hearted tone. Here are some hints to help you:

Focus on four-letter words or longer to unlock hints. Some effective starter words include: RATE, FIND, NOON, PACK, and LATE. Each one can serve as a stepping stone to uncover more about the puzzle’s theme.

Answers

Before diving into the complete list, it’s important to understand that the ultimate goal is to find not just the answers but also the spangram that uniquely captures the essence of the puzzle. For today’s Strands, the non-spangram answers include: DRAT, CURSES, PHOOEY, TARNATION, and FIDDLESTICKS.

The standout spangram for today’s puzzle is FOILEDAGAIN. To trace this elusive word, start with the F located at the far-left column’s bottom and follow its winding path upward. This engaging twist adds a layer of excitement as you unveil the letters, making your puzzle-solving experience even more rewarding.

As you navigate through Challenges and reflect on your puzzle-solving journey, remember the joy of discovery. Every word found brings a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the playful language we interact with daily.

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