Wordle #1931: 'Usury' Challenges Players with Uncommon Letters

Key points

• The answer to Wordle #1931 for October 2, 2026, is 'usury.'
• The word contains one repeated vowel ('u') and one 'sometimes vowel' ('y').
• CNET warns that the puzzle is unusually difficult and may break many player streaks.
• USA Today describes the word as associated with law and money.
• The previous day's answer (Oct. 1) was 'ritzy,' and the day before that (Sept. 30) was 'river.'

Background

Wordle is a daily word puzzle owned by The New York Times, originally created by engineer Josh Wardle. It has become a global phenomenon, with millions of players attempting to guess a five-letter word in six tries. The game's popularity led to its acquisition by the NYT, which also manages other puzzles like Connections and Strands. The NYT previously removed the public archive of past puzzles, making it available only to subscribers, though some outlets continue to publish daily answers and hints.

How outlets are covering it

CNET and USA Today both confirm the answer is 'usury' and agree that the puzzle is challenging. CNET emphasizes the difficulty, noting the 'tricky letters' and predicting many streaks will break. USA Today focuses on the word's association with law and money, providing clues about its meaning. Mashable's article, while covering a different date (Sept. 30), provides background on Wordle's history and the best starting words, such as 'crane' and 'adiu,' which are also recommended by CNET. All sources agree on the general strategy of using words with common vowels and consonants.

Why it matters

Wordle remains a significant cultural touchstone, with millions of daily players. The difficulty of specific puzzles, like #1931, can impact player engagement and streaks, highlighting the game's ongoing popularity and the community's reliance on hints and answers from various outlets. The consistency of answers across multiple sources reinforces the reliability of these daily guides.

What to watch

Players can expect the next Wordle puzzle, #1932, for October 3, 2026, to be released. CNET and other outlets will likely provide hints and answers for this new puzzle. The NYT may also update its archive or subscriber-only content, though no specific changes have been announced. The community will continue to share strategies and starting words, such as 'train' and 'close,' to improve their chances of solving future puzzles.