When Pigs Fly – Idiom of the Day

When Pigs Fly – Idiom of the Day

Meaning:

a way of saying that something will never happen

History: 

The phrases “pigs may fly” or “pigs might fly” have been used in a variety of forms since the 1600s. It was the time when the phrase was first mentioned in the form of “pigs fly with their tails forward.” This was used as a sarcastic remark for something or somebody who was overly optimistic. The current form of this idiom is more commonly used throughout America. However, when it comes to the origin, there are certain arguments. The most general and basic consensus is that this term would have either originated in Scotland or German, where it has been used in several examples throughout history.

Synonyms:

• Not in a million years
• Not on your life
• Not in any circumstances
• Not by a long chalk
• Not in any degree
• When pigs get wings
• Cold day in July
• Not likely to happen
• Cold hell
• If the sky falls
• Getting blood from the stone

Examples:

Go through the examples to understand the usage of the idiom:

1. I will score better in mathematics and science when pigs fly.
2. She plans to clean and organize her cupboard every week, but maybe when pigs fly.
3. With such performance, our team will win the competition when pigs fly.
4. Seems like my boss will give me an appraisal when pigs fly.
5. Without hardwork and required efforts, you can become a millionaire the day when pigs fly.
6. I asked my boss if I can get a holiday for a week, his response was “when pigs fly.”