Not as cool (5) - Crossword Clue
Answer: LAMER
Understanding the Crossword Clue "LAMER"
- Not as cool (5) is a classic crossword clue that leads to the answer LAMER, a comparative adjective describing something less impressive, trendy, or socially acceptable than something else.
- In crossword puzzle terminology, this phrase represents a straightforward definition clue where solvers need to think about informal slang and comparative forms to arrive at the five-letter solution.
- The beauty of this particular clue lies in its modern, conversational language that reflects how people actually speak.
- When something is described as "not as cool," we're typically making a comparison—one thing is cooler, therefore the other is lamer.
- This comparative structure is essential to understanding why LAMER fits so perfectly.
Related Crossword Vocabulary
- Expanding your knowledge of comparative adjectives strengthens solving skills across numerous puzzles.
- Words like SANER (more rational), TAMER (less wild), GAMER (more willing), and FAMER (more famous) follow identical patterns to LAMER.
- Understanding slang synonyms also helps.
- Terms like DULLER, BLANDER, or WEAKER might appear in similar contexts, though they don't always match the five-letter requirement.
Tips for Solving Similar Comparative Clues
- When you encounter crossword clues featuring "not as" or "less than" constructions, immediately consider comparative adjective forms.
- The suffix "-er" signals comparison, making it a reliable pattern to remember.
- Think about informal and slang interpretations before formal definitions.
- Modern crosswords increasingly incorporate conversational language, so clues like "not as cool" benefit from thinking colloquially rather than academically.
- Consider the letter count strategically. Five-letter answers often use simple, common words rather than obscure vocabulary.
- LAMER fits this pattern perfectly—it's a word most English speakers recognize and use, even if they don't consciously think about its comparative structure.
- Look at crossing letters early. If you've solved intersecting words, use those letters to confirm or reject potential answers.
- For instance, if you know the first letter is "L," you've significantly narrowed possibilities.
Not as cool (5) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is LAMER considered offensive language?
A: While "lame" as slang derives from disability terminology, its crossword usage simply reflects established dictionary definitions. However, some language advocates encourage alternatives in casual conversation. Crosswords document language as it exists rather than making ethical judgments about word choices.
Q: How often does LAMER appear in crosswords?
A: This answer appears regularly but not excessively in mainstream puzzles. Its useful letter combination and multiple cluing angles make it a reliable constructor tool without becoming repetitive or stale.
Q: Are there other five-letter comparatives I should know?
A: Absolutely. Common examples include SAFER, WISER, NICER, OLDER, NEWER, and dozens more. Building familiarity with these patterns dramatically improves solving speed.
Q: Can "not as cool" have other answers?
A: In five letters with this specific phrasing, LAMER dominates overwhelmingly. Different letter counts or slight wording changes might suggest alternatives, but this particular construction strongly indicates the expected answer.
