"That Is Not Good!" Crossword Clue
By: Five Letter Words | Last edited: May 01, 2025
Looking for the answer to the "That is not good!" crossword clue from the May 01, 2025 New York Times Mini puzzle? We've determined the correct 5-letter solution. To enhance your crossword experience, we offer several interactive features: you can uncover the answer gradually using our letter-by-letter reveal tool, or explore our thoughtfully curated hints—including word pattern connections, alternative clues with identical answers, or comprehensive explanations to guide your reasoning. We've also simplified navigation between related clues from the same puzzle. Ready to discover which exclamation fits this expression of dismay? Let's solve this together!
Crossword Answer:
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About This Clue
The May 1, 2025 New York Times Mini Crossword featured the clue "That is not good!" with the answer YIKES. This clue is seeking an exclamation that expresses alarm, concern, or dismay—something you might say when confronted with an unwelcome surprise or troubling situation. The quotation marks in the clue indicate that the answer is a verbal expression or exclamation, and YIKES perfectly captures that sentiment of surprise and concern.
Context for "Yikes"
"Yikes" is a versatile interjection that has been part of casual English speech since at least the 1950s, though it became more widely used starting in the 1980s and continues to be popular in contemporary speech and writing. It's an exclamation typically used to express shock, surprise, fear, or concern. The word is thought to be a euphemistic alteration of "yipe" or "yipe," which are themselves onomatopoeic representations of a yelp or cry of alarm. Like many interjections, "yikes" stands alone grammatically and is often followed by an exclamation mark in writing. "Yikes" can be used in a variety of contexts: 1. As a reaction to something unexpected or startling: "Yikes! You scared me!" 2. In response to something unpleasant or concerning: "Yikes, that doesn't look good." 3. When discovering a problematic situation: "Yikes, we're out of time." 4. As a milder alternative to more explicit exclamations: Instead of cursing upon stubbing your toe, you might say "Yikes!" 5. To express second-hand embarrassment or awkwardness: "Yikes, that conversation was uncomfortable to witness." In modern internet culture, "yikes" has taken on additional connotations as a reaction to something cringeworthy, socially inappropriate, or revealing of someone's poor judgment. It has become a versatile expression that conveys a range of negative reactions from mild concern to extreme dismay. In the context of the crossword clue "That is not good!", YIKES is an excellent answer because it's precisely what someone might exclaim upon realizing that something unfortunate or problematic has occurred.
NYT Mini Crossword Tips
When solving clues like "That is not good!" in the NYT Mini Crossword, look for words that express reaction or emotion. Clues with exclamation marks and quotation marks often signal that the answer will be an interjection, exclamation, or common phrase. For clues expressing negative sentiment or alarm, consider common expressions of surprise or dismay that fit the required letter count. In this case, the five-letter constraint points toward answers like YIKES, OHDEAR, or OHNO, with YIKES being the most colloquially accurate match for the sentiment expressed. The NYT Mini Crossword frequently includes contemporary casual language and slang, especially for clues presented as quotes or exclamations. Familiarity with common interjections and expressions used in everyday speech can be helpful for these types of clues. When you see a clue phrased as a quote that expresses a clear emotion, try to imagine what someone might actually say in that situation. This approach can often lead you to the correct answer, especially for clues seeking interjections or common phrases.
Related Crossword Answers
YIKES
Clue: "Oh no!"
OHNO
Clue: "This is bad!"
YEESH
Clue: "That's awful!"
OHMY
Clue: "Goodness gracious!"
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