Lateral Thinking Riddles

Lateral thinking puzzles involve solving problems through an indirect and creative approach, using reasoning that is not immediately obvious, thinking out of the box and involving ideas that may not be obtainable by using only traditional step-by-step logic.

The Soldier

A soldier has been captured by the enemy. He is so brave that they offer to let him choose how he wants to be killed. They tell him, “If you tell a lie you will be shot, and if you tell the truth you will be hanged.” He can only make one statement. He makes a statement and goes free. What could he have said?

Riddle Answer

Timepiece

A sundial is the type of timepiece that has the fewest moving parts. What type of timepiece has the most moving parts?

Riddle Answer

A Doctor’s Son’s Father

A doctor’s son’s father was not a doctor. How is this possible?

Riddle Answer

Silver Coin

An explorer found a silver coin marked 7 BC. He was told it was a forgery. Why?

Riddle Answer

Alone on an Island

A man is alone on an island with no food and no water, yet he does not fear for his life. Why is it so?

Riddle Answer