Connections Answers
Sunday, August 9, 2026
1
TAKE A DIFFERENT APPROACH
These phrases all mean to alter your plan, strategy, or approach to a situation.
Individual words:
•CHANGE TACK: This comes from sailing, meaning to change direction against the wind. It means to change your plan or method for dealing with something.
•COURSE-CORRECT: Like a ship or airplane, this means to make small adjustments to your plan or actions to stay on the correct path towards your goal.
•RECALIBRATE: To recalibrate an instrument means to adjust it to be accurate again. Metaphorically, it means to rethink and adjust your goals or methods.
•SHIFT GEARS: Like changing gears in a car to change speed or power, this means to change your method, speed, or focus in a situation.
2
CLASSIC CHILDREN'S BOOKS
These are all very famous and well-loved children's picture books in American culture, often read to young children at bedtime or in school.
Individual words:
•CAPS FOR SALE: This is a classic American picture book. It tells the funny story of a peddler who sells caps and some mischievous monkeys. It's known for its repetitive phrases.
•CORDUROY: A beloved American children's book about a teddy bear named Corduroy. He lives in a department store and hopes someone will buy him. He goes on an adventure to find a missing button.
•GOODNIGHT MOON: An iconic American bedtime story for very young children. A little bunny says goodnight to all the objects in his green room. It is famous for its soothing rhythm.
•MADELINE: This classic book series tells about a brave little girl named Madeline who lives in a boarding school in Paris. She often has adventures with her friends and teacher.
3
MOVIE SUBGENRES
These are all specific types, or "subgenres," of movies. They describe different styles or themes within larger film categories like action, sci-fi, or Westerns.
Individual words:
•BUDDY COP: A movie about two police officers, usually very different, who work together. They often argue but become friends while solving crimes. Examples include *Lethal Weapon*.
•NEO-NOIR: A modern movie style inspired by classic "film noir" from the 1940s-50s. It features dark stories, detectives, crime, and a cynical mood, but with new twists.
•SPACE OPERA: An epic science fiction movie genre often set in space. It features grand adventures, heroes and villains, space battles, and dramatic conflicts, like *Star Wars*.
•SPAGHETTI WESTERN: Western films made in Italy, popular in the 1960s. They have a distinct style, often gritty characters, and unique music. Clint Eastwood starred in famous examples.
4
THINGS PEOPLE TRY TO GET OUT OF
These are all situations or experiences that people typically want to get out of, escape, or avoid being a part of.
Individual words:
•BAD DREAM: A frightening dream where bad things happen. People often want to wake up quickly to escape the scary feeling.
•ESCAPE ROOM: A popular game where a group is locked in a themed room. They must solve puzzles and find clues to 'escape' within a time limit.
•JURY DUTY: In the US, it's a legal obligation to serve as a juror in court. Many people try to avoid this civic duty because it takes time and can be inconvenient.
•LABYRINTH: A complex network of paths or passages, like a maze. It is designed to be difficult to find your way out of once you are inside.