yellow group · The short answer
SURFACE-LEVEL
Each puzzle word passes the same exact test. The four mappings show how the answer works.
COSMETIC can describe an outward change or appearance rather than a deeper structural one, matching SURFACE-LEVEL.
ONE-DIMENSIONAL can describe an idea, character or portrayal with little depth or complexity, so it fits the category.
SKIN-DEEP describes an effect or quality that reaches no farther than the outer layer, directly matching the category.
SUPERFICIAL means near the surface and can also mean insufficiently deep or complete, giving the group its broad link.
Why this group was difficult
- The category is deliberately broad
The words connect through both physical surface language and figurative ideas about shallow treatment or limited depth. - COSMETIC points toward beauty products
COSMETIC can suggest makeup or personal care, which may distract from its wider meaning concerning outward appearance. - ONE-DIMENSIONAL has a geometry sense
ONE-DIMENSIONAL can describe a literal shape or model, but its figurative lack-of-depth meaning is the relevant reading here.
How to spot this pattern next time
Start with direct descriptions of depth, appearance and complexity before looking for a title addition or word-ending trick.
Keep the category broad enough to include figurative meanings, then check that every proposed word fits the same surface-versus-depth idea.
Four useful facts behind the group
- SURFACE-LEVEL is the official yellow category for Connections #1171 on August 25, 2026.
- The set includes direct surface language as well as figurative language about limited depth.
- ONE-DIMENSIONAL contributes a depth-and-complexity reading rather than a beauty-specific one.
- The relationship works from the displayed words alone, with no prefix, suffix or extraction.
Questions players ask
The details people search after seeing the group
What is the yellow group in Connections #1171?
The yellow group is SURFACE-LEVEL: COSMETIC, ONE-DIMENSIONAL, SKIN-DEEP and SUPERFICIAL all describe outer appearance or limited depth.
Why does ONE-DIMENSIONAL fit SURFACE-LEVEL?
ONE-DIMENSIONAL fits figuratively when an idea, character or account has little complexity or depth, not only when discussing geometry.
Is COSMETIC about makeup or surface-level meaning?
COSMETIC can refer to makeup, but its broader adjective sense concerns outward appearance or a change that does not alter underlying structure.
How can I spot a SURFACE-LEVEL group next time?
Look for several words that point to the outside, a shallow treatment or a lack of complexity, then check whether all four share that broad sense.