lame
Translation
lame, unconvincing, uncool
Examples
The old dog was slightly lame.
The old dog was slightly lame.
That's a lame excuse for being late.
That's a lame excuse for being late.
Grammar Patterns
((to be lame)) unable to walk properly because of injury or illness affecting the leg or foot The old dog was slightly lame.
((a lame sth.)) (of an excuse or argument) unconvincingly feeble That's a lame excuse for being late.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (physical) crippled, disabled; (excuse) weak, feeble, unconvincing. Antonyms: (physical) able-bodied; (excuse) convincing, strong
Etymology
From Old English 'lama', meaning 'crippled, paralyzed'.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'lame excuse' as one that can't 'stand up' to scrutiny, just as a lame leg can't stand properly.