Home News "New York Times Strands: January 16, 2025 Hints and Answers"

"New York Times Strands: January 16, 2025 Hints and Answers"

by Emma May 20,2025

Strands presents another challenging puzzle grid, tasking players with deciphering six themed words from a single clue and using every letter in the grid only once. This word-search game can be particularly tough, even for seasoned players familiar with Strands' rules. But don't worry, this article is here to guide you with general hints, spoilers, and more.

The NYT Games Strands Puzzle #319 for January 16, 2025, features the clue "Bar Association." Your mission is to find six items: five themed words and one Spangram.

New York Times Games Strands Clues

For hints that won't spoil the fun, dive into the sections below. These themed clues become progressively more specific as you scroll down, without revealing any in-game spoilers.

General Hint 1

Hint 1 Image Hint 1: Tending a bar.

General Hint 2

Hint 2 Image Hint 2: Alcohol.

General Hint 3

Hint 3 Image Hint 3: Mixed drinks.

Spoilers for Two of the Words in Today's Strands

If you need a bit more help with this free-to-play puzzle game, the sections below each reveal one answer and show you where it fits in the letter grid.

Spoiler 1

Spoiler 1 Image Word 1: Sidecar

Sidecar Grid Image

Spoiler 2

Spoiler 2 Image Word 2: Martini

Martini Grid Image

The Answer to Today's New York Times Games Strands

Ready for the full solution? The section below contains all the themed words, the Spangram, and their positions within the puzzle's letter grid.

Full Solution Image The category for today is Cocktails. The words are Martini, Zombie, Sidecar, Stinger, and Cosmopolitan.

Full Grid Solution Image

Today's Strands Explained

If you're struggling to grasp the puzzle, the section below provides a comprehensive explanation of how today's puzzle pieces fit together.

Explanation Image The theme for today is Cocktails, hence the clue "Bar Association." All the themed words are different cocktails you might associate with or order at a bar.

Ready to give it a try? Visit the New York Times Games Strands website, accessible on nearly any device with a browser.