Hints
Today’s NYT Strands puzzle brings an intriguing theme: “Cutting it close.” This puzzle presents a fun challenge for enthusiasts, weaving in clever wordplay and hidden connections. If you’re feeling stuck, don’t worry—there’s plenty of guidance to help you along the way.
To unlock the theme and gain access to helpful hints, focus on discovering any words you can find. Each time you spot three words of four letters or more, the game will reveal one of the theme words. Here are some clue words to assist you in your search: RIPE, CARB, RARE, PATE, PEAT, TAPE, HOPS, SHOP, SHOPS, PACE, SLICE, LICE, CARE.
Answers
Once you’ve pieced together the clues, it’s time to check your answers against the puzzle’s list. The aim is to uncover all the hidden words, including the elusive spangram, which uses every letter on the board. Today’s non-spangram answers are: CAPE, COMB, RAZOR, TRIMMER, CLIPPERS, AFTERSHAVE. The key spangram to discover in today’s puzzle is BARBERSHOP. You’ll find it by locating the letter ‘B’, which is positioned three letters across and two letters down from the top left corner, leading almost straight down.
As you tackle this puzzle, enjoy the thrill of the chase! Puzzle-solving can be a delightful challenge, and reacting to hints and solving mysteries is what keeps enthusiasts returning daily. Each piece you uncover brings a sense of satisfaction, especially as the puzzle comes together seamlessly.