English Idiom – Pigs might fly.
Meaning – This idiom is said about something that has no chance of happening. This expression is usually used in a humorous or sarcastic way. This is a very common idiom.
In common culture the pig is known as a fat or lazy animal. It is difficult to imagine them growing wings and flying – hence the expression.
We can use the phrasal verb pig out if somebody is eating far too much. Children might store their pocket money in a piggy bank.
As featured on Top 10 Animal Idioms!
Example:
- “Has your brother tidied his room yet? Pigs might fly!”
In the News
Spotted in the newsTougher action from government and Ofcom on broadband providers? Pigs might fly!diginomica.comListen to how it’s used in a sentence:
What is an idiom?
An idiom is a word or phrase that is not taken literally. An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its individual words, but has a separate meaning of its own.
Love animal idioms? See our full list of 50 animal idioms in English, with meanings and examples.
Frequently Asked Questions
It means something has almost no chance of happening — usually said sarcastically or humorously.
Almost always — it’s a doubtful, tongue-in-cheek response to a claim or promise you don’t believe will come true.
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