Why isn't 'COMB' the answer?
While a comb is related to grooming like a hairbrush, it doesn't fit the explicit instruction of 'words that come before "brush"'. The connector is a non-negotiable element.
Permanent Pinpoint answer & analysis (Pinpoint Today archive)
Published on 11/10/2025
Updated on 11/28/2025
This Pinpoint answer guide asks which shared word fits before Air, Hair, Makeup, Paint, and Tooth to create familiar phrases. Follow the spoiler-safe hints, then see why the same word completes each clue cleanly.
Hover (desktop) or tap (mobile) each clue before you reveal the Pinpoint answer
Detailed Pinpoint answer breakdown continues just below - keep scrolling
If you found yourself staring at your phone trying to crack Pinpoint #559, you're not alone! This one, with clues like Air, Hair, Makeup, Paint, and Tooth, had many stumped. Let's untangle it!
Let's untangle it!
Okay, I admit, I initially went down a completely wrong path, thinking about art supplies.
My first guess was ARTIST, which, in hindsight, was a WILD goose chase.
Then, I briefly considered SOMETHING about grooming, given Hair and Tooth as clues.
I even typed in COMB before realizing the 'brush' connection was literal and not metaphorical.
Talk about tunnel vision!
Finally, it clicked.
AIRBRUSH, HAIRBRUSH, MAKEUP BRUSH, PAINTBRUSH, TOOTHBRUSH...
It was so obvious once I saw it!
A satisfying *facepalm* moment, to be sure.
Start with Tooth and Hair, which instantly surface Toothbrush and Hairbrush.
Paint extends the idea into art supplies, Makeup keeps the cosmetic through-line alive, and Air locks the pattern with the spray-based Airbrush.
Once all five clues form common 'brush' compounds, the answer is unequivocal.
Pinpoint leans into simple wordplay: spot a repeating suffix, validate each clue against it, and the solve drops into place.
Words that come before "brush"
| Clue | Early read | Resolved read | Why it works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Air brush" | Air followed by 'brush' gives us 'airbrush', a tool used for applying paint or other liquids in a fine spray. |
| Hair | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Hair brush" | Hair followed by 'brush' results in 'hairbrush', a grooming tool used to style and detangle hair. |
| Makeup | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Makeup brush" | Makeup followed by 'brush' creates 'makeup brush', an applicator used for cosmetics. |
| Paint | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Paint brush" | Paint followed by 'brush' forms 'paintbrush', a tool with bristles used for applying paint to surfaces. |
| Tooth | Same first broad read as the rest of the board | "Tooth brush" | Tooth followed by 'brush' gives us 'toothbrush', an implement used to clean teeth. |
Avoid Assumptions
The 'AIR' clue might have pushed some towards aviation or abstract concepts. Always consider the most literal interpretation first; don't overcomplicate things!
Embrace the Connector Literally
The phrase 'Words that come before "brush"' was key. Don't assume the connector is metaphorical. In this case, it was a direct instruction to look for words that commonly precede 'brush', so pay close attention.
Don't Get Tunnel Vision
If you're stuck on one idea (like my initial focus on art), take a step back. The 'TOOTH' clue should have broadened the scope to include personal care items, so let the clues guide you.
Test Each Clue with the Connector
Once you think you're on the right track, test each clue. Does 'MAKEUP' + 'brush' make a common phrase? If not, reassess your approach. It's a checklist for your answer.
While a comb is related to grooming like a hairbrush, it doesn't fit the explicit instruction of 'words that come before "brush"'. The connector is a non-negotiable element.
A connector is the rule or link that connects all the clues to the final answer. In this puzzle, the connector tells us to only consider words that *literally* come before the word 'brush'.
It doesn't directly. 'AIR' connects through the connector to form 'airbrush', which is part of the larger solution set of words that come before 'brush'. Each clue must fit the connector's rule.