- Means that a statement, claim, analogy, or conclusion is exaggerated, unlikely, or goes beyond what is reasonable or logical.
- It implies that someone is stretching the truth or the facts too far.
Explanation
Origin
- Metaphorical use of stretch, like stretching an elastic material beyond its normal limits.
- Implies pushing the boundaries of credibility or logic. Common in modern English.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- You're reaching.
- That's a bit much.
- Okay, buddy. (Can be dismissive/skeptical)
- Long shot. (Referring to something unlikely)
Vulgar/Emphatic (Strongly dismissing the claim as illogical/exaggerated):
- That's fucking ridiculous.
- What kind of bullshit is that?
- Don't pull that crap.
Milder/More Formal:
- That seems somewhat exaggerated.
- I'm not sure the evidence fully supports that conclusion.
- That interpretation might be overly broad.
- That requires a significant inferential leap.
Situational Appropriateness
- Generally acceptable in informal and semi-formal discussions.
- It's a relatively polite way to criticize an argument or claim as being exaggerated, less confrontational than saying That's wrong or That's ridiculous.
- Can be used in professional settings, especially if softened (That might be a bit of a stretch).
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might understand stretch literally (physical stretching).
- They might miss the nuance that it's criticizing exaggeration or weak logic, not necessarily outright falsehood.
Examples
- Saying this minor issue will bankrupt the company? That's a stretch.
- He claims his distant cousin makes him royalty. That's a stretch.
- Comparing this movie to Citizen Kane? That's a bit of a stretch, don't you think?
Dialogue
Analyst 1: Based on one good quarter, I predict 500% growth next year!
Analyst 2: Whoa, that's a stretch. Let's be more realistic.
Analyst 1: Okay, maybe 500% is optimistic, but the potential is huge.
Friend 1: This coffee tastes exactly like the one we had in Italy!
Friend 2: That's a stretch. It's good, but not *that* good.
Social Media Examples
- Reply to an overly optimistic prediction: That's a stretch. Let's see the data first.
- Comment on a weak analogy in an article: Comparing X to Y? That's a stretch.
- Forum discussion: Claiming this proves the whole theory? That's a stretch based on this evidence alone.
Response Patterns
- Why do you say that?
- Maybe, but I think... (Defending the point)
- Okay, perhaps I exaggerated slightly. (Conceding)
- Fair enough. (Acknowledging the criticism)
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone says That's a stretch:
- They might explain why they think the claim is exaggerated (There's no real evidence for that.).
- The person whose claim was questioned might try to provide justification or modify their statement.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a critical response to a previous statement or claim.
Intonation
- Often said with a skeptical or critical tone.
- Can be softened with a bit of a stretch.
- Stress usually falls on stretch. That's a STRETCH.
Generation Differences
- Used across most adult generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in American English and generally understood elsewhere. Variants like That's a bit much might be more common in UK English.