English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
When pigs fly
Meaning
The idiom "when pigs fly" is used to indicate that something is extremely unlikely to happen or never will happen. It is a figurative expression that uses the image of a pig, which is considered an animal that cannot fly, as a way to convey the idea that something is highly improbable.
The literal meaning of "when pigs fly" is that it refers to a situation where pigs are flying in the sky. However, this phrase has taken on a metaphorical meaning, which means that if someone says they will do something when pigs fly, it means that it will never happen. For example:
- "I'll never go to the moon, it's not going to happen," said John, when asked about his dream of traveling to space. In this context, John is saying that he will never go to the moon because it is extremely unlikely to happen.
Usage
Here are five sentences using the idiom "when pigs fly":
- "He promised me he would finish his project by yesterday, but I think he's just stalling," said Sarah.
- "I told him I'd be here early, but when pigs fly," said John.
- "She said she was going to write a novel, but we've been waiting for years and it still hasn't happened," said David.
- "He promised me he would learn to play the guitar, but I don't think he's serious about it," said Emily.
- "I told him I was going to run a marathon, but when pigs fly," said Lisa. The usage of the idiom can vary depending on the context. For example, in formal settings, it may be considered impolite or inappropriate to use this expression. However, in informal settings, it is commonly used and understood as a way to convey sarcasm or humor.
Roots and History
The idiom "when pigs fly" dates back to the 16th century and was first recorded by William Shakespeare in his play "Henry V." In the play, a character says, "I will not see such a thing till I have wings and can touch the sky," which is similar in meaning to "when pigs fly." Over time, the idiom has evolved to mean something entirely different. Today, it is used to indicate that something is extremely unlikely to happen or never will happen. Its origins are rooted in the idea of impossibility, and its metaphorical use as a way to convey this idea has become a common expression in contemporary language.
Synonyms in English
Here are three synonyms for "when pigs fly" in English:
- Never
- Not ever
- Forget about it
Synonyms in other languages
Here are five synonyms with translations and descriptions in other languages:
- French: Jamais (Never) - This idiom is used to convey the idea that something will never happen, just as "when pigs fly" does in English.
- Spanish: Nunca (Never) - Like "never" in English, "nunca" is used to indicate that something will never happen or is extremely unlikely to happen.
- German: Niemals (Never) - This idiom is similar in meaning to "never" and "nunca" in other languages, indicating that something will never happen or is highly improbable.
- Italian: Mai (Never) - "Mai" is used to convey the idea of impossibility or that something will never happen, just as "when pigs fly" does in English.
- Japanese: いきなり (Suddenly) - While not directly related to impossibility, this idiom can be used to indicate that something is extremely unlikely to happen because it is sudden and unexpected.