‘Wheel of Fortune’ Contestant Loses Out on $100K After Puzzle Is ‘Miscategorized’
Pat Sajak couldn’t look a contestant in the eye on Wednesday’s (April 10) episode of Wheel of Fortune after a confusing puzzle cost a lovable mother of two $100,000.
The contestant in question was Laura Young from York, Maine, who referred to herself as the “crazy walking lady,” revealing she’s walked over 3,000 miles in the last year. Young walked over the competition on Wednesday’s game, amassing an episode-winning $19,350, plus a trip to the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower in Honolulu, Hawaii.
This took Young to the Bonus Round, where she selected the “Place” category along with the additional letters “C, P, D, and O.” Unfortunately, not one of those letters was on the board.
Young was faced with a tough two-word puzzle that read “_ R _ _ E L / _ _ L _ _ _ _.”
“Oh my goodness,” she said, struggling to come up with a response. “There’s gotta be another vowel in there.”
After the timer ran out, Sajak said, “Ironically, there’s a walkway in there,” revealing the correct answer as “Gravel Walkway.”
“But you had no shot at that,” the long-time host added, offering some comfort to the disappointed contestant.
Things only got worse from there when Sajak opened the prize envelope. He felt so bad that he told Young to face the other way, which she did, turning her back to the camera. He then showed the envelope to the audience, which contained $100,000.
As the audience groaned, Young turned back around and yelled, “No?!”
Sajak handed her the envelope to look for herself, and she audibly gasped.
“Number one, I feel terrible,” Sajak told her. “Number two, no way you were gonna solve that puzzle with the letters you had. Number three, you won $19,350. You did great and were a lot of fun.”
While Young took her loss in good spirits, viewers at home were less forgiving, with many complaining that “Gravel Walkway” does not constitute a “Place.”
“I’ve got beef with whoever makes the final puzzles on #WheelofFortune. I’d consider gravel walkway to be a ‘thing’ and not a place. The answers have been whack this week,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
“Gravel walkway is a “place” ??? Since when?” said another.
Another added, “Gravel walkway is NOT a place.”
“Gravel Walkway is a thing…not a place,” wrote one commenter, while another agreed, saying, “A ‘gravel walkway’ is a thing, not a place. Get your s*** together @WheelofFortune.”
This is the second time this week the show has come under fire for a baffling “Place” puzzle. On Monday’s (April 8) episode, a contestant lost out on the Bonus Round for failing to solve “Bumpy Path,” which was categorized as a “Place.”
What do you think? Was this final puzzle too confusing? Let us know in the comments section below.
Wheel of Fortune, Weekdays, check your local listings
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Comments are closed on this story.
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G
Gravel Walkway is definitely a thing, not a place! This kind of deception/misdirection is unfair to the contestants. Try using the term in a sentence yourselves before categorizing it. Maybe that would help you to clarify it in your minds so that you don't cheat the unsuspecting contestants!
81 5
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B
Where should I place the package? "On the gravel walkway" Yeah, its a place.
4 7
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B
Well, if I say place the package on the AC unit does that make it a place..no it's a thing...so confusing..it was a dumb phrase for the show and unfair to the contestant.
9
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B
Separating the words; gravel...is a thing. Walkway is a thing. Together.... it's a thing.
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B
Can I go through your "Gangway" place not a thing. Take the gravel walkway to the store. Place or Thing.
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B
If I say I'm going over to the gravel walkway, doesn't that make it a place? Actually, I think it's a place and a thing...depending on how it is used in the sentence...🤷
30 2
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P
That's like me saying, I'm going over to my shoe. Does that make my shoe a place?
4
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C
I'm going to Susan. Does that make Susan a place?
If it's used like that it's inferred that I'm going to (where) Susan (is). Which decidedly doesn't make Susan a place.
1
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R
Susan could absolutely be a place!! Like the name of a town out west.
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B
Most would likely never say, "gravel walkway". We might say we are going to the "bike path" or the "hiking trails" or simply the walkway. Walkway is a thought of as a place within a place! A walkway between apartment buildings or on campus or possibly in a park.
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B
The clue and words should never have been used when there is confusion about a place it thing.
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O
Who would have even thought of gravel walkway as a place. No one plans to go to “that place”. The same is true for bumpy path. Wheel of fortune definitely messed up.
66 8
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P
Come over to my place and we'll have some drinks and snacks...
My place being a gravel walkway or bumpy path...
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P
You just won a fascinating trip to gravel walkway! Retail value $0
1
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C
What's funny is you can describe the place by the things it has.
"I'm going to that place with a gravel walkway"
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O
I totally agree gravel pathway and bumpy path are more of a type of thing and not really a place 🤔. Think about it producers.
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G
I've been irritated for years by their use of descriptive adjectives such as "bouncy" bunny. It's never been fair.
43 4
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O
Some answers are not likely to be figured out by 99 pct of players..there should be a test for fairness( pre -taping) on the difficulty of the ten second bonus round.
19 3
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P
Yeah, and you would probable complain if they didn't use a new rope when they hanged you.
10
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G
Well DUH...of course! I mean, who wouldn't? I know that I'd sure rather have the option of a nice, fresh, newly-weaved rope for my noose if it was me that was about to be hung vs. some dirty, old, nasty, previously used rope! That's basically, pretty much a no brainer. I mean come on, seriously...like, who would want to go out like that?? Gross!
2 1
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O
Whether a "Thing" or a "Place" it is HIGHLY UNLIKELY she would have guessed the correct answer. She was absolutely stumped...
37 4
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G
Had it been classified as a thing she may have chosen different letters and a vowel, which could have helped her.
10 3
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D
What Made It Worse Is That She Is A Walker! She Picked The Wrong Vowel.
1 1
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O
I agree that a gravel walkway is not a place but a thing. Neither is a bumpy pathway a place it is also a thing. She had no chance to get this because she was misled. WOF needs to step up their standards and make restitution for their mistakes!
20 1
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O
It's a gameshow, not slavery.
1
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O
It seems it might have been an intended misdirection especially after the "bumpy pathway " the previous week.
WOF no longer is enjoyable to watch.
Maybe it should be bought by the gambling community so people could bet on if the contestant will answer correctly
8
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O
I've had a beef with WOF for years about how they categorize. It's Person, Place or Thing and so often they get it wrong! I call them cheaters!
20 3
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G
She shouldn't have won the night she added a S at the end of the puzzle. When she said it..
12 3
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P
If I were giving directions to someone and it included turning by the gravel walkway, I would consider that a place! I kept shouting "gravel walkway" to her, but obviously she didn't hear me! 😂 I love Pat and I'm going to miss him when he's gone!
12 5
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B
Definitely a thing and not a place. The contestant should have been given another puzzle to solve. It's unforgivable to make that kind of mistake. The show needs to own up.
7
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P
Gravel walkway is no different than "grandma's house" which can be a thing or place depending on how it's used, a place or thing.
22 15
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G
I beg to differ. Adding the word “grandma’s” to “house” makes this phrase a place. Leave off grandma’s and the word house becomes just a thing. You know, kinda like a house is not a home unless people live there…
24 5
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C
I stopped watching years ago when they categorized "glove compartment" as a place.
11 5
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G
Hmm.. "glove compartment" is a place though. It is most definitely a place, even if a very annoying answer. When I think place I think Italy, or grocery store. But grocery store COULD BE a thing as well, depending on usage - like glove compartment.
10 1
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R
We watched both and were puzzled by the place designation. Gravel Bumpy? Walkway Path? However you spin it I’m getting tired of the puzzles being so not really right.
4
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B
I'm h going to the "gravel walkway" gor a weekend getaway lol!
5 1
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D
Have Fun Going To That "PLACE" Because You Are Definitely Not Going To That "THING"
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R
I got the puzzle, but I am very good at them. But while, Yes, a "pathway" is a "thing" (because every "thing" from ideas to emotions are "things."- and why I would never choose "Thing.') But anywhere you can"be" is a place, so a "pathway " or"walkway " is also a place. It was tough but not unfair.
3 1
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O
They’ve been adding too many adjetives and adverbs to the puzzles and ghst just opens up a plethora
of words that could be connected to the main word.
2
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G
Hey audience....stop your complaining. It's just a game show.
2
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D
Gravel Walkway Is A Place And A Thing! Our Minds Are Programmed To Think That A Place Is A City, State Or Even A Country etc..... If A Person Is Walking On A Walkway Then That's The Exact Place Where The Are Walking And Not On The Grass. It's Always Better To Pick PERSON,FOODS Or QUOTES To Solve The Bonus Pazzles!
2
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C
Seriously everyone. Let's use our elementary school knowledge of a noun: "a person, place or thing".
A walkway IS a PLACE one travels on, as is a trail in the woods.
Let's cut the empathy for losing contestants, and rely on facts. Wheel of Fortune got this one right.
7 5
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D
Exactly!!! If You Walked On The " GRAVEL WALKWAY " You Are Going Over To That Place And Not On The Grass! We Are Programmed To Think That A Place Is A City, State Or Even A Country!
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R
Yall, gravel walkway AND bumpy pathway are places and things, depending on how you use it. However I think most of us agree it was probably miscatigorized and she should get something of a makeup or 'refund'. I am definitely disappointed in WOF. Pull it together guys.
1
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R
I think you should find a better use for your time. Who cares!? What value does your final question or the show Wheel of Fortune have when our society is falling apart at the seams other than to lull those who are already asleep into a deeper slumber?
1
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R
I think they should say they are sorry, they truly messed up again, and pay up ! She deserves to get that money for that puzzle!
1
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R
To me it is A place...a thing is an object such as a garden rake etc..sorry she didn't get the right letters to win..
1
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R
A gravel walkway is a thing. The wheel people need to revise their thought process, if they have one. It's a disgrace.
1
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O
I have watched other episodes of Wheel, and I have found that the category didn't match the answer
1
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P
I think it was wrong and they should give her the money anyway… a gravel walkway and a bumpy pathway are not places… she should have another chance or be given the money
1
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R
Law suits
1
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D
Walkway Is The "PLACE " And Gravel Is Describing The "THING" That The "PLACE " Is Made Of. The Word
" GRAVEL " Was Placed There To Deliberately Make The Puzzle Harder To Solve And To Make The Contestant Think Of A City,Country,Town etc... She Needed To Pick The Vowel "A" !!!
1
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C
I think they just don’t want certain people to win and they make it hard for those people.
1
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L
I think Wheel of Fortune has been getting away for years with contestants winning small amounts of money when the owners are making mega bucks. They should be ashamed of themselves making the final puzzle so difficult and misleading.
I SAY PAY THE CONTESTANT $50,000 as punishment
1
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O
Gravel Walkway is of course a thing, but it is also a place. For instance, meet me later. Where? On the gravel walkway.
1
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G
Use them in a sentence as In there is a bumpy path or a Rocky road over there. that makes them a place.
1
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B
I think walkway would be considered the place. Much like a street, or bike path, or sidewalk. The word gravel is merely describing the walkway. So to me, yes it is a place.
1
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C
Vanna White,what a waste of money
1
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C
Why do they pay old worn out Vanna White to pretend to turn those letters,when a computer does it,get her old ass off the show.
1
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C
They are just a bunch of lying TV Rich Crooks
1
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B
I think that actually gravel walkway has to be a place. Use it in a sentence, e.g. “I’ll meet you at the gravel walkway in the park.”. That is definitely a place, not a thing. Even if you don’t define it by ‘park’, it still is a place, defined by ‘gravel’ as a specific place.
1
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N
The final puzzle from yesterday evening was not confusing. A gravel walkway is grammatically a place..An extra good example is a sidewalk. When utilize in a sentence, you are the subject, you must always utilize a preposition, and where you are, significantly the place.
1
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C
I think all of this nonsense would end, if people just stopped watching the show.
1
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B
Ask an English Teacher from Harvard. They actually could be considered both. And I don't think she would of guessed it either way even if it was listed as a " thing".I'm on WOF's side. Place is the better of the two.
1
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O
It's a "where" so it's a place. Just like "person" doesn't necessarily mean "proper noun" (as Woolery used to clarify every time), place doesn't necessarily mean a specific geographic location or spot on the map.
(I wouldn't have gotten it right with only 10 seconds and under TV lights. But I got it in about 30 from the comfort of my home.)
1
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G
I think Ryan Seacrest will be gone in less than a year ...to a different place🙃
1
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O
My husband and I thought Bumpy Pathway was definitely not a place in addition to being a being a goofy clue to begin with. Gravel Walkway not a place either. Some of the answers to these clues are practically impossible to get anyway.
1
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G
I think that some of the final puzzles are "too" of the wall. Odds of getting the correct answer are stacked against them.
1
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R
...off...
3 2
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R
Right. Like "jaunty sailor", who would think of that?
18
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O
Whether bumpy pathway is a place or thing, the contestant missed the answer. If it was said to be a thing, with the letters she had available she would have nonetheless missed the answer, so stop making a mountain out of a molehill!!!
2 1
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D
Exactly !!! She Definitely Picked The Wrong Vowel And She Even Said It Herself !!! There Has To Be More Vowels In There Were Her Exact Words !!!
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G
Terrible! Is a kitchen floor also categorized as a place. The back of my neck, my driveway!!! That woman deserves a second chance. Shame on you, wheel of fortune raiders. I'm getting more and more disillusioned with your whole staff, including pat sajack.
1
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R
Even if ut wasn't a place she still didn't get the puzzle so technically it didn't change the outcome
She would still had lost.
3 2
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C
A bumpy pathway and a gravel walkway aren't places any way that you look at them. Whoever chose "things" were really reaching to call them places. If I were those two contestants I would file a complaint with the heads of Wheel of Fortune, for whatever that's worth.
1
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R
They both should get another chance.
50 5
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O
How is a walkway not a place? And any complaint would have been made - and resolved - at that very moment (offscreen). The fact that it aired shows that there's no issue.
11 23
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R
Logic? On the Internet? There's no place (thing) for that!
4 3
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C
You don't say I'm going to Gravel Walkway.
If you're going to Dewey Park to walk the gravel walkway that's different. The park is the place and the walkway is in the park.
You can't GPS to gravel walkway, so it's not a place.
5
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G
I totally agree!!!
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G
That’s exactly what I said after the puzzle last night they do this quite often and it’s very irritating
1
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P
It’s NOT a place. A never liked how they show the contestants what they lost.
1
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O
Stupid. There is no way the contestant was going to get Gravell walkway. This is a thing. Boooooo.
1
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G
WOF needs to make amends for this..maybe another trip?
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G
Definitely not described correctly!!!!
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R
They are both “Things” not laced. Thats like saying my car seat is place and not a thing
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P
Split the difference and give her 50,000 !! She didn’t have a chance . And they should just be basic In These final categories and not so abstract. I’ve notice this for two years! .
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O
Gravel Walkway is a thing and not a place. I feel she should be brought back to play again. Also, the other contestant that had the puzzle Bumpy Path, should have a second chance to come back and play.
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G
I think it's a thing
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G
Both of the "places"you described
Are "Things" definitely both contestants should be given their prizes
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C
Graveled walkway is definitely a thing, not a place. Someone didn't pay attention in English class.
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C
Wheel of fortune should be sued for miss representation and fraud for game fixing
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B
I think that the (puzzle category people) on "Wheel of Torture" as I call it now, because of "ISSUES" JUST LIKE MISCATOGORIZED puzzle categories.
I see this happening more & more often on The Wheel now and wonder how they still have a JOB🤔!!!
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G
Wheel of Fortune, stop using words descriptions that fit more than one category!!
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G
Thing Not a place!!!!!!
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P
Totally agree with everyone saying a bumpy path or gravel walkway would not be categorized as place.
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O
I think that it could be either a place 0r a thing and there should be a category covering that situation
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R
I agree, Gravel Walkway is not a place. More of a "thing". This isn't the first time categories have been questionable, for sure
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O
I always take a driving break in Bumpy Path, Texas on my way to Gravel Walkway, Kentucky.
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D
"GRAVEL WALKWAY " IS A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE WALK !!!!!!
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C
She probably would have called differently if she knew the puzzle was a thing instead of a place. Gravel Walkway is noway a place it is a thing! You need to consult a English teacher!
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O
you are making the answers that do not make sense so you can avoid paying out money
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P
The category was definitely wrong! A gravel walkway is a thing, not a place. She got robbed.
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B
I totally agree. I saw that episode and was yelling a gravel walkway is a thing not a place!!! Just like stairs are things not a place! She was robbed!
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P
If gravel walkway is a place, then so would hardwood floor be a place also. No way. Fire the category team and bring in some professionals.
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R
Zoo is a thing. París is a place. Wheel of Fortune has been miscategorizing from the start.
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O
Wheel has lost is luster with me due to some of their ridiculously , impossible bonus round puzzles. I love doing my NYT Crossword every day, and I often times have no clue as to a final solve. I often wonder if the show is on a "jackpot budget" that sometimes cuts winning possibilities ....
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C
My husband and I agree it is NOT A PLACE!!! SERIOUSLY She should get another opportunity
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B
The people determining the clues need a better understanding of what something is. Yes gravel walkway is a thing not a place & the same with a bumpy pathway. These people need the prize and or another chance with a prize puzzle. Tge shoe needs new writers as well.
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B
It is definitely NOT a place. It’s a thing. Guys you better fix this for that sweet lady. You Royally SCREWED up!!!
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P
I think the answers should not include an adjective !
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O
I think it is hilarious that people expect these T.V. game shows to play fair. They have an annual budget just like any other bussiness, and they are in the bussiness of MAKING MONEY just like any other bussiness. Of course they will play every dirty trick they can not to give away $100k, ohh sure maybe one guy every 5 years might win a big prize like that, just to keep people watching and to keep the ad revenue high, but just like a casino to exist for that one person to win big, most have to go home empty handed.
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O
Dear WOF, You blew. Big time!! Give those two contestants the prize money!!!!
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O
Depends on how you use it
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O
Some things can also be places. Like a house is a place, but it's also a thing. If someone asks you where you are, and you are on a gravel walkway, that is the place where you are 😂🤦♀️
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R
Maybe they should have a Thing or Place category
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O
Not a place. Definitely a thing
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C
I too, think the bonus puzzle was confusing. I'm beginning to think that it's meant to throw the contestants off. How terrible!
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O
I have watched WOF for a good 50 years, this was not categorized right. Give the two contestants another try at the bonus round or maybe half of the money they would have won, if it was categorized right.
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C
I got Gravel!
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G
I always think the puzzles are crazy for their category but to be honest I got the puzzle right away. So no I don’t really see the problem.
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B
On BOTH counts, the show SCREWED UP and at least give HALF the $$$$$$ to the contestant. What a major foooo-pah. The higher-ups should be held to a HIGHER authority. Please - this is almost as ridiculous as Jeopardy. Three contestants finish above $10,000 and second place gets $2,000 and third place gets $1,000. This is national TV at dinner PRIME TIME...Time to watch MSNBC or CNN....INSTEAD....
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B
It's definitely a place!🤔 or could be both but for sure a place
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C
Yes this is a "Thing" ..could be considered a place but for an ant or a bug..too confusing.
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O
I agree! I was baffled when the answer was revealed. Shame on you WOF!
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P
The writer failed & should be fired! Wheel needs a special episode "2nd chance redemption" show for those winners that never had a remote chance of solving the bonus round!!
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B
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P
Absolutely NOT places! Shame on Wheel!
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B
Gravel walkway is a thing therefore the contestant should get the prize awarded to to her.
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C
Some days it seems like they don't want to give money away and Pat is long overdue for leaving the show. I have a feeling Vanna is hiding her excitement. A gravel walkway is a thing. Anyone who thinks otherwise is overthinking this.
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G
It's almost like they don't want her to win! �
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G
A gravel walkway isn't a place it's a thing..... a place would be like Central Park or Coffee Shop or Your Moms House.... not a gravel walkway. 🤦♀️
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B
Give her the money
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G
A gravel walkway is not a Place!! It’s a Thing! Who makes the decisions on what a puzzle is…apparently, there should be more than one person making it! That lady should be given another opportunity.
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C
I to agree that gravel walkway is not a place but a thing! That is not fair at all to the contestant! They need to make it right with that poor lady some how! I say, "shame on Wheel of Fortune!"
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G
What happens when Millennials start doing the quiz questions...smh the don't think water is wet and the earth is round what makes folk think they won't say a gravel walkway is a place
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G
Neither is a place! They are both things!!
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P
Things! Not place!
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C
Gravel Walkway is not a place , it is a thing !!!
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C
It's all drama for ratings and controversy publicity.
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G
I think they should give her the $100,000.00. They made the mistake. They should pay up. the other thing that always annoys me is when Pat gives a poo, poo or a now now to the winnings that people get when he’s making millions.
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G
There's not just one gravel walkway in the world , so it can't be a place.
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C
I think a lot of categories are wrong, take food and beverage for example it doesn't say food or beverage and there is hardly anytime it has both in the puzzle. And many places are not places.
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G
Been a huge fan for 40 years and unfortunately I'm very disappointed in them lately .come on wheel of fortune you guys gotta make this right !
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P
It's almost like they are making up their own words, so 🤔 you do NOT stand a chance at winning shame on them a company with so much money wheel of LOSSES...
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O
Both gravel walkway and bumpy path are a thing not place. They exist in a place but are not themselves a place.
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O
It's a place.
I will meet you at the gravel walkway.
Let's meet at the gravel walkway.
Are just a couple of examples.
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R
I think that gravel walkway is a thing not a place . I would protest the puzzle to the heads of wheel of fortune and show proof that it is a place
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G
The people in charge of deciding catagories should know better. They know an adjective (gravel) is obviously an adjective.
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P
Absolutely thought those two puzzles were misleading as places. I think they should invite those two contestants back again! I was thinking the same thing when I watched both shows! I mean a place is somewhere you travel to or a concrete building with a recognizable name.Even a puzzle like "Grandma's house" would have been a better puzzle!
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B
I think they should invite her back for a second chance. She was not given a correct category. That's a Thing not a place!
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R
I figured it out with those letters, but I agree, it's not a place, it's a thing. The final puzzles usually have odd letters in them like Q, V, W, F, P & U and most people don't pick those.
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R
If you can answer a "where'' question instead of a 'what' question with the puzzle answer, then it's a place. Else, it's a thing.
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C
Yes. It was to confusing. Gravel walkway is a thing not a place
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B
I knew I wasnt being ridiculous! The very first thing I said was, "that's a 'thing', not a 'place'"!
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G
I think these prize puzzles are very misleading!! We've question lots of them--some make absolutely NO SENSE!!
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G
Why aren't they using answers with what the letters provided by WOF...? It's starting to become unwatchable. Where is Ryan?
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P
Sorry, Bumpy Walkway is a place.
It answers the question where as in:
" Where did you stumble and fall?"
Answer: On the bumpy walkway.
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G
That’s a crock, give mom the balance and make the cash prize total 100,000 even. She has to pay taxes on it anyway and I’m certain wheel of torture can afford it!
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P
Why is this damn show even still on the air every time I come on to read news, there's something controversial with it. Vanna White sold us dirt. Let her retire. We all know Sayjaks leaving. Thank God put it out the pasture for Christ's sake
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G
Agreed , when the puzzles happened we at our home said those are things not places! Should let them come back and try again!
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C
"They are cheapskates" is a place, called "wheel of fortune. I'd have low expectations if I was trying to go on a gameshow.
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R
I think gravel walkway and bumpy path are things myself. So how you use it in a sentence is not an option Give those two people another chance with a new bonus round for each. Fair is fair.
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B
I agree, and said the same thing when I saw the answer, " thats a thing, not a place!"
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R
I have had this issue with many of the category selections and their respective answers! This was an error on THE WHEEL'S part. It certainly could have affected the outcome.
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R
A lot of the bonus round puzzles are ridiculous . They come up with word combinations that nobody ever says in real life. I don't think that I have ever said " Gravel walkway" in my entire life . And then sometimes the puzzles are as easy as pie . For the bonus round player it truly is the luck of the draw .
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C
I said the same thing! A gravel walkway is a THING
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C
I'm just so ready for Pat Sajac to be gone, regardless of the puzzles. So arrogant and dismissive of contestants he dislikes! Good riddance.
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R
A gravel walkway is not a place! It is a thing at a place....who in the world would say to someone, let's meet at the " gravel walkway " without stating where it is, at a place?
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B
I seriously think Wheel cheats. You notice that the last puzzle isn't revealed until AFTER the contestants spin for their prize? So if they get the 100K or the million, Wheel can easily hand out an esoteric and impossible puzzle.
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B
In both mentioned clues they are indeed “things”. She should get her 100,000 or get another opportunity to win the bonus round. 😊
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P
It definitely is not a place! She should get another chance! And her trip there paid for or give her 50k.
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G
They are both thingy places.
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B
I have to agree, it should have been thing not place smh
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R
Agree they are not places. Give both contestants the prizes they would have received if a correct puzzle was presented.
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G
If it's a place. Where us it located ?
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B
I 100% agree both are not places
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O
Not a place
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O
she should get the money there mistake she should be paid
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G
It's certainly a place and a thing. Matter of perspective.
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B
No matter what the category she wasn’t going to solve it. Not enough letters.
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O
The prize should be given to them, and the "puzzle person" go back to school. I wonder how many will leave the viewing of Wheel bc of this. ??? Losing Pat and these deceptive Episodes are certainly a reason for many.
Come on Wheel - DO THE RIGHT THING HERE! American People are tired of ALL the deception going on lately, in Our Country!
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R
I agree with everyone. Gravel walkway and bumpy path are not places but things.
I feel both contestants should be given the money.
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G
It is a thing, not a place! They stretch these too far, not the first time we have said "Really?". I was so frustrated for her.
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O
I think The Wheel has been giving up too much money, now they want to slow the flow,by putting up stupid puzzle and making them unsolvable using tricky hints, which don’t really match. I also think that the wheel is controlled by a speed brake.
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R
Years ago while watching WOF with my young kids ( they loved working on their reading skills !), the category was 'thing' The answer?? P U R P L E. What???? My 40 year old 'kids' still talk about how that contestant was robbed, exclaiming how PURPLE is not a thing!! It is an adjective-- purple crayon, purple flower, etc. A 'thing' would be a noun. Maddening!
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R
It wasn't just this week. It happens often in bonus round. Seems a bit misleading to me.
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B
I think they're saving for the future and shorting the contestants so they can pay Ryan Seacrest
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G
I saw both episodes of and thought they were terrible puzzle answers. The Bonus Round puzzles are getting worse each month. Hire an English tutor.
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O
After 30 years I've stopped watching. Pat sajak isn't funny & the bonus puzzles have been off course for years.
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B
Place is a location. Gravel pathway is a thing. She was misguided.
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G
Gravel walkway is not a place. Would they send her to an all expense getaway to a gravel walkway???
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O
I also believe that a gravel walkway is a thing, not a place. That's what I thought as soon as the answer was revealed. I told my husband : That's more like a THING, not a place! That's why the category of "place" is so hard to solve sometimes, when they have answers like that.
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B
Hardly any of the puzzles make sense when it comes to there categories this is nothing there are thousands.
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B
Wheel of fortune needs to give those prizes to those 2 contestants, that’s ridiculous.
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D
You Can Not Go To "Las Vegas " And Lose A Poker Game And Ask For A Second Chance To Win Again ! You Lost That Game So GET over It !!!
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P
This is taken from an article of a company that designs walkways and pathways:
Asher walkway is a formal, purposeful element meant to carry regular foot traffic from one place to another. An example would be the sidewalk from a back door that leads to the driveway. Walkways are typically constructed with pavers, concrete, or large flagstone. Walkways are wider and sturdier than pathways.
A pathway is a more creative element that carries a lesser volume of foot traffic from one feature of your yard to another. An example of this might be from your back door to your pool or from your patio to your rear garden. Pathways are more narrow than walkways and tend to be designed with more artistic materials, like natural stone.
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P
I think it is totally unfair to include gravel walkway, bumpy path and the like as a place. That just gives the contestant a totally wrong, unfair way to look at the puzzle solution. That's about the same as including a lily pad as a Place. Come on, give the contestants a fair chance of solving the final puzzle.
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C
Typical of Americans. They never did understand English. Definitely not a place.
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B
When I saw what the puzzle was, I said that is NOT a place!!! Give her another chance and put her back on the show!!! And also the person who had to solve A bumpy pathway..
Which ALSO WASN'T A PLACE! Get it together guys!
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B
I think this show must be written by the Biden Administration.
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P
Why didn't she get the 2nd "a" )
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R
Definitely a "thing", not a "place"!
-
O
Neither are places, they are things!
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G
The minute I heard it I said to my husband, that’s just nit right!!
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G
Sorry, “not”.
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O
I am a bus driver and we have several stops described as the gravel walkway I think one would call that a place
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B
What's the issue? I guessed it correctly. I suppose a grassy hillside wouldn't be a Place either?
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R
Gravel walkway is a Thing and not a place. Whom ever is in charge of the game. They need to go back to school and get re-educated on person, place, and things.
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G
The answers to both of those puzzles constitute a thing, not a place. Both of those contestants were robbed. The people writing the questions and answers should certainly know the difference after 50 years in the puzzle writing business!
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O
Yes, totally not a place.
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B
Definitely not a place. Some final puzzles are way too simple while others go to the opposite extreme.
-
O
I think Pat needs to leave now. He messes people up too much
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P
Gravel walkway is not a place
They didn't want her to einy
-
O
I told my wife, as soon as I saw that some WOF MORON, thinks that Gravel walkway is a place, instead of a thing!
The contestant deserves to be included in a future show, at WOF's expense!
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O
Yi watch every night and I think the catergories were misleading.
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G
Terrible ending! It is like saying "on the road". It is a place but it is so vague and can be considered not a definitive place. Really poor answers to these shows.
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P
I'm wondering how old the people are that make up the puzzles. They need a English class to correctly label the categories. 🤔
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C
Gravel walkway definitely a thing not a place!!
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P
Most definitely confusing. The second the answer came up I told my husband that was not a place but a thing. The show needs to suck it up and award the prize to both contestants on principle and fire whoever categorizes the puzzles.
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C
The producers of Wheel of Fortune REALLY don't want to pay out at the bonus round. "Gravel Walkway" is NOT a place - "Public Library" is a place, "Police Station" is a place, etc.
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G
I do not think that a bumpy path or gravel walkway are “places”. They are THINGS.
Shame on you WOF.
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R
Most people, who consider such puzzles to be cheating contestants, would quit watching the horrible show.
Meanwhile, I'm going for a walk, behind the Winn-Dixie, on the gravel walkway by the loading dock. You know the "place," don't you?
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G
I agree she was wronged by wheel of fortune. Now to make things right for both contestants they should invite both contestants back and let them have another shot.
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G
I actually guessed it correctly before the buzzer went off. But I have to agree that a better category for this puzzle would have been thing!
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O
Wheel of Fortune has been on a downhill slide over the past year. Both examples are consistent with this trend. Unfortunate.
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G
They are definitely NOT PLACES. THEY ARE THINGS !!!
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G
Terrible...sent them an email...as an English teacher totally not a place...come on WOF...really 🤷
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G
I have watched wheel of fortune for sooo many years and they have been making it on purpose I believe to confuse the contestants. Why is what I would like to know. It is not fun to watch any more. If it is about the money quit paying your hosts such extravacant salaries.
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B
Can’t tell you how many times, and we watch the show all the time, that I have turned to my wife and said,”They need some help with categorizing their answers. It’s not just two instances. It seems about half the time they completely miss on the “place” or “thing” question!
BTW, I’m 83 years old and would love to be a contestant on the show!!!
Russ Rutledge
Lexington, OK
rjr720@A T Morgan
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G
Gravel walkway is not a place. It is a thing. The gal really didn't have a chance and they possibly put it up there after they realized she picked the card for $100,000
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P
Yes I both of the answers were very mis leading . No wonder the players could not win.
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B
Wheel is going brain dead! Who is in charge? Shouldn't Sajak be privy to questions and answers and have some input! It makes him look like a fool!
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O
I think contestant should seek serious legal action with go fund me account..
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O
Give her the money. She deserves it. The network and it's sponsors can afford it.
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G
Neither answers are a "place". Have the producers heard of person, place, or thing. Errors like this should not happen. Contestants should be compensated.
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B
Those are places just as much as a "car seat" is a place. (e.g. not at all)
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O
No way is that "gravel walkway" a place.
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C
I love the show, but I think the contestants have a beef with WOF and could sue for deceptive practices.
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B
Deception of categories seems to be the norm lately. Wheel of Fortune better get its act together or it will not be the peoples' game any more. I, for one am curious to know who dreams up these puzzles.
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C
Wheel of fortune gets worse every time I watch it and it is only going to get worse when Pat leaves! I will probably stop watching it as well a lot of others
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B
Show must be running out of money 💰.
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R
She may not have won either way with the letters she chose but no matter how you look at it "gravel walkway" is not a place it is a thing. Perhaps they could bring her back for another show to make amends.
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G
The answers to the categories offered are terrible and have been for a long time. IMO, the best one, if offered, is “what are you doing” which at least gives the contestant the ing. It’s beyond me why people still include G in their pick of consonants.
The other thing that annoys me is PS saying “ don’t feel bad for her … she/he’s already won xxx$ as if that’s a consolation to not winning $100,000 …. Drives me crazy!
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G
They are both things differently not a place. Was very glad to hear I wasn't the only one thinking this.. Bring both contestants back on the same episode to redeem their selfs!!
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G
Exterminator: "Where do the ants seem to be coming from?"
Me: "The gravel walkway."
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O
I agree completely in both cases that those were not “places.” I have been a contestant (yes, I won big, but it was a long time ago), and those were crappy bonus puzzles, even if they had been properly categorized. I am getting tired of the “random adjective” followed by the “random noun” bonus puzzles.
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R
Wheel of Fortune really were at fault and blew it by say a gravel walkway is a place...I was like what?? Is that a new theme park I haven't heard about yet lol
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P
Give the woman and the other contestant another chance with an appropriate answer to the category
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P
Because of the Wheels error, they should give her the $100,000 or at least half.
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P
Walkway is a place just as driveway is a place. If all you can do is find fault with everything and everyone, you really need to get out more.
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G
You've got to be kidding! A gravel walkway is definitely not a place but rather a thing. But who cares?? Do the producers of the show, the writers, who cares? Really! Fans should boycott the show for a few days and see how they like it. Maybe they'll get their facts straight.
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G
Doesn't matter. Changing category to thing with those few letters wouldn't help. Quit complaining.
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O
Gravel Walkway is definitely NOT a place.
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P
Both are things. What's ironic is the contestant next to her was given a second chance after WoF made an error with her. You'd think they'd have gotten it together by now.
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C
Gravel walkway is a place.
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O
First of all, things for that so called ‘letter touched’ hsve gotten way too easy for ‘her’! Ms White pretending to lite up letters when it’s all down by a stagehand w/a computer mouse offstage!! Many of times/ Ms white looks confused& doesn’t know where the right letter is to ‘touch’!! And Yes, the puzzles have gotten more outrageous along with Most of Vanna’s ‘outfits’ lately!! Nobody wants to see her wrinkly Bare Arms!! & it will be Unsavory to have this 60+ yr old woman Still prancing around a fake letter board in dying of the New 40 something Ryan!! Maggie Sajak has been vying for the job, but Missie Vanna is just to egotistical & selfish to Leave!!
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P
I said that very same thing to my husband! Gravel walkway is a thing!! I agree with others that whoever does the puzzles needs to get their facts straight.
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O
It's total BS. Come on Wheel of Fortune. I thought you were better than this.
-
R
Or, the answers are soooooo out of left field that NO ONE could ever get them.
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P
They should have given her 50k for their screw up, yes, possibly she could have gotten the correct answer, get some new writers that is in charge with the answers/
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P
I think whoever is in charge of these puzzles is a moron and doesn't know the difference between a thing and a place and these contestants should be reimbursed for the puzzles that they could have solved if they were in the right State of Mind to solve the puzzle if it had been categorized correctly
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P
Really really dislike this show-very misleading and unfair!!
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G
Aren't there a consentious of staff opinions at the Wheel?
-
O
Never choose “place”
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P
They are "places" as they are set at a location.... so yes they are places. Things are inanimate objects. Objects you can pick up, move, carry, purchase. I did not find it confusing.
-
O
Trickery and deception do not make this show entertaining. Shame on WOF for purposely mislabeling categories. The audience likes to see smart people win, not be misled.
Your audience is absolutely angered with these tactics. Do better wOF!
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J
It’s definitely a place! If someone were to strike you with a baseball bat, and the police said where were you when this happened? If you said I was on the gravel walkway. Okay then…a place has been established!
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P
I think that it was wrong listing and very unfair to the lady. A correction should be given to the lady, for the shows wrong listing, it is a thing, not a place. Who's level is off plumb on this, some small head of the shows relation?
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O
The show is going downhill. Pat is leaving and we have to endure old Vanna for a couple more years
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G
I agree with the others. Get the categories right!
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P
Why are the articles about Wheel always so negative. It's a game. People watch it for fun!!
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M
Bumpy path and gravel walkway are a thing not a place. It is hard enough to solve the puzzle without them giving wrong information. Get your act together wheel.
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B
Pat Sajak is too old now. There I said it!
-
O
Pat doesn't write the puzzles.
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G
A gravel walkway is definitely NOT a place...
-
R
Wheel of Fortune, in my opinion has run its course!! I think Vanna White is way overpaid for doing nothing and no longer has natural beauty die to all the work she has had done, and looks much too thin and unhealthy. I think Pat Sajak will be leaving while he is still on top with his head held high. I wish him well.
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R
I'm Robert Kim and I say: More like Wheel of Misfortune!!!
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G
A walkway made of ANYTHING is a THING not a PLACE. You know how many PLACES in the world have *Gravel Walkways.??
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O
Sorry Gravel walkway and Bumpy pathways are things not places. A space used for a specific purpose.
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C
I agree. It should have been a thing.
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G
The show does that purposely ...
What a bunch of crooks, snakes, lowlifes!!!!!!!!!
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P
Get over it people
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G
NO I SAW THE EPISODE AND THOUGHT THE SAME THING.ITS NOT A DESTINATION.THEY SHOULD HAVE HER REAPPEAR.I THINK MONDAY THEY HAD A CONTESTANT BACK FOR A PRIOR SHOW FLUB UP. !
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C
A gravel walkway isn't a place!
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B
I think that the creators of these puzzles do not have a clue of English grammar and even less of a clue on parts of speech and categories. They should be fired. Anyone who lost on the writer's stupidity should be given the prize that they should have won. Otherwise it's a criminal offense. Pat Sajak should get hearing aids after having cheated some contestants out solving the puzzle after I clearly heard the correct answer. He needs to go now! It's time for Vanna to leave, too. She looks like an emaciated old lady whom is no role model for normal sized women.
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G
Yet you watch the show...lol
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-
P
If you're ever on the show definitely don't choose place if you get that far!!
-
B
She should be given the $100,000 because of their misguidance. Who knows if it would have been solved. That's not the point here. They made a mistake. Just t o keep the integrity of the show, she should be given the prize she landed on. Antè up Pat!!! I know it's not Pat, but Anthony up and make things right. They don't have to go back and pay every mistake, just admit it, pay up and correct it moving forward! Keep it a good show, don't ruin it. Too many people are cursing at the tv because contestants are being burned! Pay up and you will be applauded by all! Just my 3 cents.....
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P
Definitely a thing. They may take you to a place but they are Not a place.
-
O
They need to get ideas from the viewers the people they've hired have lost their touch
-
O
How about the phrases that nobody ever said or heard of? Any 3 w0rd are phrases to Wheel
-
C
Bumpy pathway and gravel walkway are things.
-
O
I stopped watching the show about 2 years ago. Neither of those solutions is a place. Would you take a date there and tell them the time and place? I think Pat Sajak and the show are no longer happy "places." Nasty and mean.
-
G
They are both "things" not places.
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G
I think it's bs that wheel of fortune has stoop so low to keep there money it's supposed to be a fun time for people not a big dsappointment
-
G
Gravel walkway could be either a place or a thing but place is the correct category. You could poll a thousand people and half would say place and half would say a thing
-
G
Unfortunate for her, but she didn't pick the correct letters to help her. It's a game people. Get over it.
-
P
When I think of a place, I think of a location like a city/country or a specific building (store, mall, etc). Gravel walkway is a thing. Wheel of Fortune did her wrong on this one
-
R
I think wheel of fortune is very generous in giving out prizes! The Golden Rule applies here! He who has the gold makes the rules!
Take me home bumpy road to the gravel walkway where I belong!
-
G
I got it right away so wasn't that confusing
-
O
Gravel Path and Bumpy Pathway are things. Definitely!
-
O
I think they should mail her the damn check , they need to suck it up butter cup the show messed up!
-
O
W of F should write a check to both contestants! I didn’t see the first one, but saw yesterday. Ridiculous…
-
R
Gravel walkway is not a place. It’s a thing.
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D
Everything Is A "THING" But Every Where You "GO", Is A Place! Whether You WALK,DRIVE,FLY Or Even Take A BOAT , You Are Going To That Place !!!!!
-
O
Maybe the category should be altered to be "Physical Location"- which covers a path, walkway,street .
-
R
These folks got screwed. They are things, not places.
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D
She Even Said That There Has To Be Another "VOWEL" In There! She Picked The Wrong Vowel.
-
G
I agree that those two were things not places. Some of the bonus round answers are ridiculous.
-
G
I think that too often the categories are mislabeled. And, often their “phrases” must have been made up by someone in the back office. They are certainly not commonly known phases. I think they should review their whole process to be more transparent and fair.
-
O
Pat you and your crazy staff really look at things and get your act together. I've never really been a fan of yours. Your Personality really needs help. Craziness has caused two contestants. In the future check your dictionary.
-
P
It's a thing. Have her back again.
-
O
It's a place. She's not coming back.
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C
Looks like WOF wants to close Pat's years with controversy. Sad as he has been a great host.
-
P
Over the last few years, the only category that has seemed remotely fair, without all the extra weird adjectives, is the phrase category
-
G
Gravelwalkway and Bumpy path r things not places doesn't take brains to know that. Felt sorry for both ladies
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R
It can be both people. Just like anything else.
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B
Totally agree not a place.
-
O
A place is like a destination. Not a thing like a gravel driveway. Make it right or loose alot of watchers. Get some good publicity for a change.
-
O
It's not only that.
(And it's spelled "lose a lot")
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-
O
Anyone with 1/2 a brain & any common sense at all knows both are THINGS not places!!!!! That being said if you could check back on years of shows the same thing has happened more times than you can count! After all they're not really in the business of giving away money!!!
-
B
We think that was totally unfair. Both those puzzles were “THINGS “ not places. I think in all fairness you should have them back to play again.
Keep your name good, and have them back.
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G
Not a place.
-
R
The wheel of Fortune should have let her do a second puzzle because they screwed up
-
O
Definitely a thing not a place,they should give her some kind of compensation.
-
O
I think that wheel of fortune has lost its way and is no more fun
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C
Both deserve to come back!! Those might be places In your at your house, but definitely NOT fitting that category!!!
-
R
Wheel of fortune has really been messing up. I think they need some new wriers.
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B
Both gravel path and bumpy road are things, not places. The writers need to think "I'm going to (the) _____." If it doesn't make sense, it's not a place! They should have those contestants back again and pay their expenses.
1 1
-
O
If we're meeting at the "Gravel Walkway", it is a "Place". Unfortunately, she didn't have enough letters to work with anyway.
-
G
The Gravel Walkway capitalized IS a place… Uncapitalized gravel walkway is a thing- signifying nothing
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B
Definitely NOT a place! "I'm going to Paris" ... that's a PLACE. "I'm going to gravel walkway" doesn't even make sense!
-
G
It’s not a place. It’s a thing. You’re so wrong for doing these puzzles wrong!
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B
I quit watching years ago. They rig it so they do have to give out too many prizes. A walkway is NOT a place.you go to on vacation. It’s a thing.
-
O
So it's only a place if you can vacation there. Who ever said place had to mean specific geographic location?
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G
I told my husband, "I think they're making the puzzles so hard to solve because they need money to pay Ryan's salary when he starts hosting."
-
C
They are places!
1
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G
Gravel walkway & bumpy path are not places!!!!
1
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G
I stopped watching the wheel long ago because of these miss categories, it really takes the fun out of the game.
1
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G
I think she was cheated by the clue, place, and answer, gravel walkway. The clue should have been thing, not place. Your home is a place. The Lincoln Memorial is a place. A driveway is a thing. Be fair. Bring her back.
1
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R
Can't blame them...they get paid to make it improbable that the winners guess the phrase, so anything towards that end is fine with them...
1
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G
They should be given another chance. With the correct subject. so screwed
1
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R
Not a place. Seems like they want to "rob" the contestants on the final puzzle all the time.
1
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P
Not a place.!
1
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O
No way is bumpy path or gravel walkway a place!! Definitely a “thing” category. You guys missed the mark on that!! Not fair for sure! ☹️
1
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R
I solved it easily, could be a place or a thing
1