a likely story crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on "a likely story crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "a likely story crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
BALONEY: A common exclamation of disbelief, often used colloquially to mean 'nonsense' or 'absurdity'.
HOGWASH: Refers to something that is meaningless, false, or nonsensical, fitting the sarcastic tone of 'a likely story'.
8 Letters
NONSENSE: Directly translates to 'a likely story' in the context of something unbelievable or absurd.
TALLTALE: A story that is difficult to believe because it is exaggerated or untrue, often used to describe 'a likely story'.
9 Letters
YEAHRIGHT: A sarcastic interjection indicating strong disbelief, perfectly capturing the essence of 'a likely story'.
10 Letters
INCREDIBLE: Describes something so extraordinary or unusual as to be hard to believe, aligning with the implied skepticism.
More About "a likely story crossword clue"
"A likely story" is a classic crossword clue that often trips up solvers due to its idiomatic and sarcastic nature. It's not asking for a story that is probable, but rather one that is highly improbable or completely false, delivered with a tone of disbelief or derision. This phrase is a staple in everyday English to dismiss an excuse, an explanation, or a claim that is clearly untrue or fabricated.
In crosswords, this type of clue falls into a category that requires understanding colloquialisms and indirect meanings. Solvers need to recognize the implied sarcasm rather than taking the words literally. The answers typically convey a sense of 'untruth,' 'absurdity,' or a dismissive interjection. Recognizing this nuance is key to unlocking many such clues in a puzzle.
Common themes for answers include words that express disbelief, such as "BALONEY," "HOGWASH," or "NONSENSE." Sometimes, the answer might be a direct sarcastic retort like "YEAH RIGHT." The clue tests not just vocabulary but also cultural understanding of English phrases and their common sarcastic uses.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Interpret Sarcasm: Always be on the lookout for clues that seem to have a hidden meaning or sarcastic tone. Phrases like "a likely story," "sure thing," or "you don't say" often imply the opposite of their literal meaning.
- Consider Common Idioms: Crosswords frequently use idioms and common phrases. If a clue sounds like an everyday saying, consider its conventional, often non-literal, interpretation.
- Check Letter Count First: Before brainstorming answers, always check the number of letters required. This instantly narrows down your options and can help you discard answers that don't fit the grid.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck on this clue, solve surrounding words first. The letters filled in from intersecting words can provide crucial hints for the trickier clues like "a likely story."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'a likely story' imply in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'a likely story' is typically a sarcastic or dismissive phrase. It signals that the answer will be a synonym for something unbelievable, absurd, untrue, or a colloquial exclamation of disbelief. Think words like 'nonsense,' 'baloney,' or 'yeah right!'
Are there common answer patterns for sarcastic crossword clues?
Yes, clues with a sarcastic or ironic tone often lead to colloquialisms or exclamations. Look for answers that express disbelief, dismissal, or a humorous rejection of an idea. The number of letters in the grid can significantly narrow down possibilities.
How can I distinguish 'a likely story' from a genuinely plausible tale clue?
The key is the phrasing and punctuation. 'A likely story' with an exclamation mark, or implying sarcasm, points to disbelief. If the clue suggests a 'plausible' or 'credible' story, it's likely looking for synonyms of 'truth,' 'fact,' or 'account.' Context is everything in crosswords.