tall story
Synonym of tall tale (“a tale or story which is fantastic and greatly exaggerated; also, an account of questionable veracity; a lie, an untruth”).
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He told a tall story about catching a giant fish.”
“Nobody believed his tall story about meeting a famous actor at the local grocery store.”
“The explorer regaled the tavern with a tall story concerning hidden gold, though most listeners dismissed his claims as pure fabrication.”
From tall (“exaggerated”) + story.
- 01
Banbury story of a cock and a bull
A roundabout, nonsensical story.
- 02
break the story
To be the first to address or publicize an issue, often a news story.
- 03
change one's story
To give an account of events different from the one previously recounted.
- 04
cock-and-bull story
A far-fetched and fanciful story or tale of highly dubious validity.
- 05
cut down the tall poppy
To belittle or undermine someone who is perceived as superior or more successful and accomplished.
- 06
long story short
Introducing a short version of, or simply the conclusion of, a relevant story.
- 07
moral of the story
The key lesson or message that an incident, situation or other happening conveys; a general takeaway point.
- 08
ride tall in the saddle
To act or conduct oneself in a manner that is imposing, impressive, resolute, or manly.
Last updated August 10, 2026