Word Ladder Daily
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Date: 2026-05-25
GIVES → TAKEN
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects GIVES to TAKEN in 5 steps. This 5-letter word puzzle challenges your vocabulary and logic skills. Can you find the shortest path?
Play This PuzzleStep-by-Step Solution
Step 1
GIVES → LIVES
Change the 1st letter G to L, turning GIVES into LIVES.
Step 2
LIVES → LIKES
Change the 3rd letter V to K, turning LIVES into LIKES.
Step 3
LIKES → LAKES
Change the 2nd letter I to A, turning LIKES into LAKES.
Step 4
LAKES → TAKES
Change the 1st letter L to T, turning LAKES into TAKES.
Step 5
TAKES → TAKEN
Change the 5th letter S to N, turning TAKES into TAKEN.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 2, pos 2: 1, pos 3: 1, pos 5: 1. Most-changed position: 1 (2).
Change sequence: 1, 3, 2, 1, 5.
Letter mix: V→V 1, V→C 0, C→V 0, C→C 4.
Word stats: 6 words, 10 unique letters. Start/target share 1 position.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from GIVES to TAKEN?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from GIVES to TAKEN takes exactly 5 steps.
Q: Any tips for today's puzzle?
A: This puzzle involves 5-letter words. A good strategy is to look for common intermediate words or focus on changing vowels first.
Q: Where can I play past Word Ladder puzzles?
A: You can access our complete archive by clicking the "Puzzle Archive" link at the bottom of the page.
Word Definitions
GIVES
LIVES
LIKES
LAKES
TAKES
TAKEN