Spoiler-safe daily page
Strands Hint & Answer
Reveal only what you need: theme first, then spangram help, then individual theme words, and finally the full answer list.
Today's theme hint
Think about: Sink or swim
Spangram today
10 letters · direction unknown
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This word describes a situation where there is a great deal to lose or gain; think of a gamble with massive consequences.
The spangram has 10 letters and ties the whole theme together.
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HIGHSTAKES
Theme word hints
Open one card at a time. Each preview hides the full word until you choose to reveal it.
Word 1: CRI...
CRITICAL
Theme word starting with CRI.
Word 2: DEC...
DECISIVE
Theme word starting with DEC.
Word 3: IMP...
IMPERATIVE
Theme word starting with IMP.
Word 4: PIV...
PIVOTAL
Theme word starting with PIV.
Word 5: RIS...
RISKY
Theme word starting with RIS.
Reveal today's Strands answers
Ready for the complete list? This section keeps the spangram and theme words behind one final reveal.
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Theme
Sink or swim
Today's theme 'Sink or swim' suggests a situation where the outcome is uncertain and the pressure is at its peak. It points toward scenarios involving intense risk or moments that will define success or failure.
Spangram
10
letters
Theme words
5
to find
Difficulty
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Countdown targets midnight Eastern Time, when the next daily puzzle usually rolls over.
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Past Strands answers
View allHow to use today's Strands page
Start with the theme hint if you want a gentle push. If that is not enough, open the spangram hint before revealing the full spangram. Theme-word cards let you unlock one answer at a time instead of spoiling the whole board.
When you are ready to check the complete solution, use the final reveal. The archive keeps earlier published days so you can revisit yesterday's board without digging through old search results.
This site is an independent fan-made helper and is not affiliated with The New York Times.
Frequently asked questions
What is Strands?
Strands is a word puzzle where theme words connect through a letter grid.
How do I use this page?
Start with the theme hint, then reveal the spangram hint, spangram, and answers only when needed.
What is a spangram?
A spangram is the long theme answer that ties the rest of the puzzle together.
Are answers shown immediately?
No. The spangram and full answers are hidden behind reveal controls.
Is this an official puzzle page?
No. Strands Hint is an independent fan-made helper.