Answer key | September 17, 2026
The full solution is below, with a short explanation for each group. To avoid spoilers, play the puzzle or open the hints page before reading the answer panels.
SUSPECT / EVIDENCE / ALIBI / MOTIVE
SUSPECT, EVIDENCE, ALIBI, and MOTIVE all fit the category "Mystery story clues". A detective asks about these. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
CARD / LAWYER / RHINO / BATTERY
CARD, LAWYER, RHINO, and BATTERY all fit the category "Things that charge". Charge has a different meaning for each. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
FROST / ICICLE / PARKA / SLED
FROST, ICICLE, PARKA, and SLED all fit the category "Winter words". Cold weather brings these out. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
TOKEN / TILE / PAWN / DIE
TOKEN, TILE, PAWN, and DIE all fit the category "Board game pieces". You might move or roll these on a tabletop. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.