I love word games, so Lingo is obviously one of my favorite game shows.

Anyone who has caught the show at least a few times probably noticed how contestants will often guess words they know don't fit the puzzle just to get letters. Sometimes the letters show up in place, other times it just tells them it's somewhere in the puzzle. It's a good strategy, imo.

However, they only change the last four letters of the word. Has anyone actually changed the first given letter of the word? For example, if the puzzle starts with an H, why not guess any random five letter word that doesn't start with H, to get one more shot at another letter that might be in the puzzle? Obviously it'll be out of place, but at least it would keep time from running out for that turn and increase your chances of getting it right.

I know it's not the biggest deal, but I've always wondered about it. :lol: Has anyone ever thought of this or have any ideas of why contestants don't do this?

I asked the question on gsn and someone said that the team loses control and their opponents get a bonus letter

I asked the question on gsn and someone said that the team loses control and their opponents get a bonus letter

Hm. That's dumb :lol: It works with any other letter even if it's in the right place, except the first? :mad:

Thanks for replying :)

My take on this is that the reason why you have to start your word with the given letter is because it would be too easy to just think of any 5-letter word. The challenge is finding words that begin with the letter "V," for example, without taking too much time. Personally, I think the rule makes sense. :)