Crossword Genius

Last in exam? Currently woman’s first in exam (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nowhere

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'last in exam?' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adverbs. Perhaps you can see an association between them that I don't see?

'currently woman's first in exam' is the wordplay.
'currently' becomes 'now' (right now).
'woman' becomes 'her' (her refers to a woman).
'first in exam' becomes 'e' (1st letter of 'exam').
'now'+'her'+'e'='NOWHERE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nowhere that I've seen before include "News from - (William Morris)" , "in limbo" , "no prospect of success" , "In no particular place" , "remote location" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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