Pinpoint Answer TodayWhy isn't 'WASHING' the answer for one of the clues?
While 'WASHING MACHINE' is a valid term, none of the clues directly relate to washing. The clues are designed to lead to a single, unifying answer.
Permanent Pinpoint answer & analysis (Pinpoint Today archive)
LinkedIn Pinpoint #514 Answer & Analysis
Published on 09/26/2025
Updated on 11/28/2025
Verified by Human EditorHow we verify
This Pinpoint answer guide asks what shared idea links Time, Ice, Sewing, Vending, and Automatic Telling. Follow the spoiler-safe hints one by one, then see how each clue clicks into the final answer.
Hover (desktop) or tap (mobile) each clue before you reveal the Pinpoint answer
Pinpoint Answer for LinkedIn Pinpoint 514
Detailed Pinpoint answer breakdown continues just below - keep scrolling
Pinpoint 514 Answer & Full Analysis
If you found yourself staring at your phone trying to crack Pinpoint #514, you're not alone! The clues Time, Ice, Sewing, Vending, and Automatic Telling were certainly a mixed bag. The task was to find the word that precedes "machine" for each of these.
Let's unravel this puzzle and see how it all connects.
Okay, I'll admit, this one had me scratching my head for a bit.
My first thought was something related to manufacturing, but that quickly fell apart.
I even considered something abstract like "dream" or "hope," which, in retrospect, was just plain silly.
"DIGITAL" was another WRONG GUESS.
I needed a new angle.
Then, a lightbulb moment!
I focused on the "machine" aspect and started brainstorming common types of machines.
Suddenly, the connections started clicking into place, one by one.
The satisfying *thunk* of each clue locking into place is what makes these puzzles so addictive.
Finally, the answer emerged: Time MACHINE, Ice MACHINE, Sewing MACHINE, Vending MACHINE, and Automatic Telling MACHINE (ATM).
It's amazing how a little shift in perspective can unlock the whole puzzle.
It felt great to finally ditch my initial WRONG GUESSES and solve it!
Every clue in this set—Time, Ice, Sewing, Vending, and Automatic Telling—ultimately circles back to Words that can come before “machine”.
Time sparks the pattern, Sewing reinforces it, and Automatic Telling locks the shared idea in place once you view them through that lens.
When Time and Ice appear together, ask how they could relate to Words that can come before “machine” before exploring other stretches.
The moment you test that theory, remaining clues like Automatic Telling fall neatly into place.
Solved Connection
Words that can come before “machine”
Clue-by-clue evidence
| Clue | Early read | Resolved read | Why it works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Time" | Everyone dreams of owning a time machine, right? |
| Ice | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Ice" | An ice machine is a must-have for any party or gathering. |
| Sewing | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Sewing" | My grandma's sewing machine is a classic, a real workhorse. |
| Vending | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Vending" | Who hasn't relied on a vending machine for a quick snack? |
| Automatic Telling | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Automatic Telling" | ATMs are so ubiquitous, it's easy to forget how revolutionary they once were. |
Lessons Learned from Pinpoint #514
- 1
Think Broadly, Then Narrowly
The 'VENDING' clue could have led down many paths. Start with the broadest interpretation of 'machine' possible and then refine your search based on the other clues. Don't get tunnel vision early!
- 2
Don't Overthink Common Words
Sometimes the most obvious answer is the correct one. 'ICE' is a very common word, and the first association is 'ICE MACHINE' which should have been considered earlier.
- 3
Consider the Function, Not Just the Object
With 'AUTOMATIC TELLING', focus on the function of an ATM rather than getting hung up on the specific phrase. What does it *do*? It tells you your balance, dispenses cash etc.
- 4
Look for Common Threads
If you're stuck, try to identify what the clues have in common *besides* the answer. In this case, most are conveniences that make life easier (except maybe sewing, depending on who you ask!). This can help you brainstorm related concepts.
FAQ
What does 'AUTOMATIC TELLING' even mean?
The clue points to ATM, short for Automated Teller Machine. The puzzle clue uses 'Automatic Telling' to steer you toward that familiar machine phrase.
How does 'TIME' connect to 'MACHINE' in this context?
The connection is 'TIME MACHINE', a hypothetical device used for traveling through time. It's a common phrase and a popular concept in science fiction.