how long is a piece of string - Definition & Meaning

used to say that it is impossible to answer a question concerning the size, length, or amount of something

The phrase "how long is a piece of string" is a humorous idiom used to highlight the vagueness or impossibility of providing a precise answer to a question. The origin of this expression is not precisely documented, but it likely developed as a playful way of emphasizing the difficulty in measuring or determining something that lacks clear parameters.

When asked how long it will take to complete a complex project, the project manager replied, "How long is a piece of string?"
In response to the question, "How many different ways can you solve this problem?"the teacher said, "It's like asking how long a piece of string is."
When inquired about the number of possible variations for the design, the architect humorously asked, "How long is a piece of string?"
Trying to determine how many people will attend the event is akin to figuring out how long a piece of string is; it's uncertain.
The chef was asked how much salt to add to the dish, and he quipped, "It depends on how long a piece of string you have."