Adults Baffled by Kids' Riddle on Closest Time to Midnight

A seemingly simple children's riddle has confounded adults: 'What is the closest time to midnight?' Given choices include 11:55 a.m., 12:06 a.m., 11:50 a.m., and 12:03 a.m. The debate centers on whether 12:03 a.m., just three minutes past midnight, or 11:55 a.m., 12 hours and 5 minutes away, is correct.
The riddle's ambiguity has led to varied interpretations. Some argue 12:03 a.m. is closest, being minutes after midnight. Others contend 11:55 a.m. is nearer, as time moves forward, making it the closest to the next midnight. This debate highlights how a simple question can reveal complex perceptions of time.
One participant humorously noted, 'This question makes me wonder how people survive,' reflecting the widespread confusion and amusement the riddle has caused.