tall one
C1informal
Definition
Meaning
An idiom meaning a lie, falsehood, or improbable story, typically one that is elaborate and difficult to believe.
Can also refer to any exaggerated or boastful statement, or an excuse that is clearly fabricated.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The phrase is often used in the context of catching someone in a lie ('telling tall ones' or 'spinning a tall one'). It implies a degree of creativity or effort in the fabrication.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More common in British English than in American English, though understood in both. In American English, 'tall tale' is a more frequent near-equivalent.
Connotations
In British English, it often carries a slightly humorous or dismissive tone. In American English, it may sound dated or literary.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, but higher in UK informal spoken English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
SUBJ + tell/be telling + (OBJ) + a tall oneThat/It + is + a tall oneVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “tall tale”
- “tall story”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Might be used humorously to dismiss an unrealistic projection or excuse.
Academic
Extremely rare, except perhaps in literary analysis of idiom.
Everyday
Primary context. Used informally among friends, family, or colleagues in casual conversation.
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- He told a tall one about seeing a lion in the park.
- That's a tall one – you expect me to believe your dog ate your homework again?
- She's been spinning tall ones about her weekend adventures to impress her new colleagues.
- The minister's claim that the policy would have no negative effects was widely dismissed as a tall one.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine someone telling a story so tall it reaches the clouds – it's as unbelievable as its height.
Conceptual Metaphor
FALSEHOOD IS A LARGE/EXAGGERATED OBJECT (the 'size' of the lie corresponds to its improbability).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not translate literally as 'высокий один'. The idiom is not compositional.
- Avoid confusing with 'tall person'.
- The closest direct equivalent is 'байка' or 'небылица', but 'tall one' implies intent to deceive.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'tall one' to refer to a physically tall person (incorrect).
- Saying 'high one' instead of 'tall one'.
- Using it in formal writing.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'tall one' be most appropriately used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Very similar. 'Tall one' is a more informal, idiomatic phrase, while 'tall tale' can also refer to a genre of folk story.
Yes, it's informal but not offensive. It's gentler than directly calling something a 'lie'.
A truthful account, a fact, or a plausible story.
It is understood but considered somewhat dated or British-leaning. 'Tall tale' or simply 'lie' are more common.