Connections Answers
Sunday, August 2, 2026
1
FILLER WORDS
These words are often used in spoken English to fill pauses, introduce ideas, or show hesitation. They don't always add meaning but make speech sound more natural in casual conversation.
Individual words:
•ACTUALLY: Americans often use 'actually' to correct information, add a surprising fact, or simply to pause and think. It can also soften a statement or introduce a slightly different idea.
•LIKE: In casual talk, especially with younger people, 'like' fills pauses, introduces examples, or softens opinions. It’s also used when quoting what someone said, even if not exact words.
•SO: 'So' is used to start a new thought, explain something, or show a result. As a filler, it often gives the speaker a moment to gather thoughts before speaking or starting a new point.
•WELL: 'Well' often starts a response, shows slight hesitation, or prepares for an explanation or disagreement. It can soften what you are about to say, giving you time to think.
2
BY MEANS OF
These words are all prepositions or adverbs used to indicate the method, route, or means by which something is done or achieved.
Individual words:
•BY: We use "by" to show the method or agent. For example, "I travel by car" means the car is my transportation method. Or, "The song was sung by my favorite artist."
•PER: "Per" often means "for each" or "according to." You might say "10 dollars per hour" (each hour). Or, in formal English, "per your request" means "as you asked."
•THROUGH: "Through" means by way of or by means of something. "He got the job through hard work." Or, "You can contact me through my assistant," meaning using the assistant as a channel.
•VIA: "Via" means "by way of" or "passing through." For example, "I flew to Paris via London" means London was the intermediate stop. Or, "Send the document via email."
3
___ MODE
These words are all commonly used before 'MODE' to form a familiar phrase or term.
Individual words:
•AIRPLANE: “AIRPLANE MODE” on a phone means turning off signals for flying. It prevents calls or internet use during a flight, which is a common requirement.
•BEAST: “BEAST MODE” is an informal phrase. It means someone is working with extreme power or intensity, like a strong animal. Often used for sports or tough tasks.
•DARK: “DARK MODE” is a common setting on screens. It changes the display to a dark background with light text. Many people find this easier on their eyes, especially at night.
•À LA: “À LA MODE” is a French phrase meaning “in the style of.” In the US, it commonly refers to a dessert, especially pie, served with ice cream on top.
4
U.S. AIRPORT CODES PLUS STARTING LETTER
Each word is made by adding its own first letter to a common 3-letter U.S. airport code.
Individual words:
•ASEA: This word combines the letter 'A' with "SEA," which is the airport code for Seattle. Seattle is a big city in Washington state, in the Pacific Northwest.
•FLAX: This word combines the letter 'F' with "LAX," which is the airport code for Los Angeles. Los Angeles is a very large city in California, known for Hollywood.
•LORD: This word combines the letter 'L' with "ORD," which is the airport code for Chicago O'Hare. Chicago is a major city in Illinois, famous for its architecture.
•OLGA: This word combines the letter 'O' with "LGA," which is the airport code for New York LaGuardia. New York City is famous worldwide for its culture and landmarks.