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Illustration for riddle: Tool of thief, toy of queen.
Always used to be unseen.
Sign of joy, sign of sorrow.
Giving all liken — Can you figure out this riddle?

Tool of thief, toy of queen. Always used to be unseen. Sign of joy, sign of sorrow. Giving all likeness borrowed.

A mask

Why this works

This riddle cleverly plays on the dual meanings and uses of the word "mask." The "tool of thief" refers to how thieves often wear masks to conceal their identities, while "toy of queen" hints at masks used in royal masquerade balls, adding a playful element. The lines "always used to be unseen" and "giving all likeness borrowed" emphasize how masks hide one's true face, allowing the wearer to take on different identities or personas, whether in joy or sorrow, such as in theater. Thus, the answer "a mask" beautifully ties together the various contexts in which it is used.

Common Wrong Answers

“A crown”

While a crown can be associated with royalty (the queen), it does not fit the descriptions of being unseen or a tool of a thief.

“A mirror”

A mirror reflects likeness but does not serve as a tool for a thief, nor is it typically associated with the themes of joy or sorrow in the same way a mask is.

“A costume”

Although a costume can be related to play and disguise, it does not specifically fulfill the criteria of being always unseen or directly linked to a thief.

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