Question

1. can a match box?

yes
no
no, but a tin can
yes, one beat mike tyson

lives: 3

Explanation:

Analyze the literal question

The question asks: "CAN A MATCH BOX?"
Literally, a matchbox is a small cardboard box used to hold matches. A box cannot box (as in the sport of boxing).

Identify the wordplay

Using Wordplay, we look at the double meanings of the words.
The word "CAN" is capitalized. It can be an auxiliary verb ("Is it able to?") or a noun (a metal container, like a tin can).
The word "MATCH" can be a noun (a small stick for starting a fire) or a verb (to compete against or equal someone).
The word "BOX" can be a noun (a container) or a verb (to fight with fists in a match).

Interpret the pun

Using Lateral Thinking, we re-read the sentence not as "Can a matchbox [do something]?" but rather as "Can a match box?" meaning "Is a tin can able to participate in a boxing match?"
If a "can" (tin can) cannot box, what about other objects?
The option "No, but a tin can" is a humorous play on the word "can".
The option "Yes, one beat Mike Tyson" plays on the idea of a "match" (a boxing match) where a "can" (or someone) boxed.
Specifically, "No, but a tin can" directly answers the question by playing on the noun "can" versus the verb "can". "Can a match box?" -> "No, but a tin can" (a tin can can box / a tin can is a can).

Evaluate the correct riddle answer

This question is from the famous "Impossible Quiz".
In the context of this specific riddle:
"Can a match box?"

Answer:

• YES
• NO
• NO, BUT A TIN CAN (Correct answer)
• YES, ONE BEAT MIKE TYSON