Four by Four hints ·
Hints for today's Four by Four puzzle
Open one hint at a time for each group. Hints go from a vague nudge to nearly naming the category, and each group stays hidden until you choose to reveal it. Play this puzzle.
The sixteen words
PLANT · SCOWL · BEARD · HARP · SHUFFLE · UKULELE · TRUDGE · AMBLE · CARD · CELLO · STRIDE · KEY · SURF · BANJO · SPRING · CRATE
Group 1
Hint 1: A nudge
They all make music.
Hint 2: Narrowing it down
You pluck or bow each of these.
Hint 3: Nearly there
From a bluegrass favorite to an orchestra pit regular, all have strings.
Group 2
Hint 1: A nudge
These describe motion on foot.
Hint 2: Narrowing it down
Each suggests a different pace or mood while moving.
Hint 3: Nearly there
One is lazy, one is confident, one barely lifts the feet, one is weary and heavy.
Group 3
Hint 1: A nudge
Each becomes a longer word when the same syllable is attached.
Hint 2: Narrowing it down
The added part is a flat plank or panel.
Hint 3: Nearly there
Typists tap one, divers bounce off one, and packing boxes are made of one.
Group 4
Hint 1: A nudge
Look at the letters, not the meanings.
Hint 2: Narrowing it down
Something living is tucked inside each word.
Hint 3: Nearly there
A tiny insect, a rodent, a large forest mammal and a farmyard grazer are all concealed.