NYT Strands Hints & Answers for January 21, 2026

Complete guide with hints, spangram, and all theme words for Jan 21's puzzle

Strands Theme of Jan 21 is:

That's not very polite

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Todays' Spangram Hint

The spangram for today's 'That's not very polite' Strands game is a direct instruction, a phrase you might say to someone exhibiting bad manners. It's an imperative statement telling someone to refrain from rude behavior.

Reveal letter by letter or uncover a full solution

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Today's Strands Spangram

Strands Spangram for Jan 21
Today's spangram is:
DONTBERUDE
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Hint for Today's Theme Words

Today's theme, "That's not very polite," centers around impolite actions or behaviors. Think about common ways people might show a lack of manners or disrespect.

First three letters of each theme word:

BUR...
GLO...
INT...
POI...
SHO...
STA...
TEA...

Spoiler Warning

Strands answer for That's not very polite are revealed below!

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Answers for Strands Today

Below is the complete solution for Today's Strands.Enjoy the game!

Strands Hint for Jan 21

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the spangram for NYT Strands on January 21, 2026?

The spangram for January 21, 2026 Strands puzzle is "DONTBERUDE". It touches two opposite sides of the grid and relates to the theme "That's not very polite".

What is today's Strands theme (January 21, 2026)?

Today's Strands theme is "That's not very polite". This theme connects all the words you need to find in the puzzle.

How many theme words are in today's Strands puzzle?

There are 7 theme words in today's Strands puzzle, plus the spangram "DONTBERUDE".

What is a spangram in Strands?

A spangram is a special word in NYT Strands that touches two opposite sides of the grid and relates directly to the puzzle's theme. It uses every letter in the theme at least once.

How do I solve NYT Strands puzzles?

Start by identifying the theme, then look for the spangram (it touches two sides). Use the hint button if you're stuck - it highlights one theme word. Work your way through the grid, connecting letters in any direction.

How to Play Strands

Objective:

Find all the hidden theme words and the spangram in the letter grid.

Rules:

  • • Words can be spelled in any direction (including diagonally)
  • • Letters can only be used once per word
  • • All letters must be used exactly once
  • • Theme words relate to the given clue
  • • The spangram spans from one side of the board to the opposite side

Tips:

  • • Start by looking for obvious theme-related words
  • • The spangram often contains or relates to the theme
  • • Use the hint button if you're stuck
  • • Pay attention to letter frequency and common word patterns

Scoring:

Find all theme words and the spangram to complete the puzzle. Use hints sparingly to maintain your streak!