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Everyday Object Words for the Imposter Game

Ordinary objects make surprisingly good secret words. Use these 60 prompts when you want a round that needs no specialist knowledge.

Choose words everyone can use

Choose objects with more than one possible association. Umbrella can suggest rain, a handle or a forgotten item on a bus. An unfamiliar technical tool often has only one clue available to most players, which makes the round either obvious or frustrating.

20 objects around the home

Use the generic name people know. Mug and cup can be separate prompts, but avoid placing both in a first pack if that distinction will cause arguments.

  • Spoon
  • Fork
  • Plate
  • Mug
  • Kettle
  • Toaster
  • Fridge
  • Microwave
  • Pan
  • Whisk
  • Colander
  • Pillow
  • Blanket
  • Mirror
  • Lamp
  • Remote control
  • Clock
  • Key
  • Toothbrush
  • Hairbrush

20 school and work objects

Clues can describe a use, a sound or an annoying habit. Do not require a particular brand or software product to make the connection.

  • Pencil
  • Pen
  • Eraser
  • Ruler
  • Notebook
  • Stapler
  • Paperclip
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Backpack
  • Calculator
  • Whiteboard
  • Marker
  • Desk
  • Chair
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
  • Headphones
  • Printer
  • Calendar

20 things to take outside

These work well as a travel or outdoors pack. Check regional names: torch and flashlight refer to the same sort of object.

  • Umbrella
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
  • Scarf
  • Glove
  • Boot
  • Helmet
  • Water bottle
  • Thermos
  • Map
  • Compass
  • Torch
  • Binoculars
  • Tent
  • Sleeping bag
  • Picnic basket
  • Frisbee
  • Kite
  • Bicycle lock
  • Walking stick

Six clues to try

These are starting points, not answers to memorise. A clue works only if the people playing can make the connection. The imposter should hear the clue, not the secret word.

  • Umbrella → Forecast: Connects the object to planning for weather.
  • Stapler → Refill: A practical clue without naming paper.
  • Kettle → Whistle: A familiar sound, though not every model makes it.
  • Mirror → Reflection: Quite direct; useful as an easier teaching example.
  • Headphones → Commute: Describes an occasion rather than a feature.
  • Kite → String: A component shared with other objects.

Build a fair round

Agree whether synonyms count before play. Nobody should be accused because they call a torch a flashlight or an eraser a rubber. When a clue relies on one kind of object, explain that connection after voting instead of interrupting the round to settle it.

Try a small room-based pack first, then mix objects from different lists. Keep all names concrete. Adding abstract words such as comfort or organisation changes the kind of clue players need and can make otherwise sensible answers sound suspicious.

Want to mix themes? Start with the main Imposter game word list or make a custom word pack.