When pigs fly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when pigs fly" is part of correct and usable written English.
You can use it to signify something that is impossible or unlikely to happen. For example, "I don't think I'll ever win the lottery - it's about as likely as when pigs fly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

"When pigs fly".

TechCrunch

"When pigs fly," University of Kansas political science professor Burdett Loomis said of Kobach.

Huffington Post

Sharon: Sure I can, when pigs fly.

grammar-example

Given the trends so far, in this worst-ever year for flight delays, one might be tempted to scoff: When pigs fly.

The New York Times

One Democratic legislator vowed that Sandy Springs would incorporate "when pigs fly," a phrase that Mayor Galambos has since adopted as the name of her blog.

The New York Times

In one StarBand radio spot, a cheerful saleswoman from a cable modem provider tells a prospective customer: "Let's see, I can schedule an installation when hell freezes over or when pigs fly.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

This could also mean Zune sync software for the Mac, something that we expected when pigs flew.

TechCrunch

When truffle pigs fly.

Forbes

Amid reflections on fame, failed relationships, and what sounds like an allusion to an abortion or miscarriage on All Things Go, Minaj can still sound fierce, for example when bellowing: "Is pigs flying?

The Guardian - Music

Can pigs fly? .

Huffington Post

And pigs fly.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "When pigs fly" to add emphasis or humor when describing something you believe is impossible or extremely unlikely.

Common error

Avoid using "When pigs fly" in contexts where literal flight of pigs is being discussed; the phrase is an idiom and should be reserved for expressing impossibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "When pigs fly" functions as an adverbial clause, modifying a verb or an entire sentence to express extreme improbability or impossibility. Ludwig indicates that the expression is part of usable written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

32%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academic Institutions & Universities

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiom "When pigs fly" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something is highly unlikely or impossible. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is part of correct English usage. While predominantly found in news and media contexts, its informal register makes it more suitable for casual settings. Remember to use it to add emphasis or humor, but avoid misinterpreting its idiomatic meaning in literal contexts. Alternatives like "never going to happen" can be used for similar effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Never going to happen

This alternative directly states the impossibility of an event.

Not a chance

A concise way to express that something is not possible.

Impossible

A direct statement of impossibility.

It will never be

Simple statement of the impossibility of an event.

When hell freezes over

Similar idiomatic expression emphasizing impossibility.

Highly unlikely

Indicates a very low probability of occurrence.

A snowball's chance in hell

Implies no possibility of success or occurrence.

Not in a million years

Emphasizes the extreme length of time before something could happen.

That'll be the day

Sarcastic expression implying disbelief that something will ever happen.

Over my dead body

Indicates strong opposition and unlikelihood of permission.

FAQs

How can I use "When pigs fly" in a sentence?

Use "When pigs fly" to express that something is highly improbable or impossible. For instance, "He'll clean his room "when pigs fly"!"

What does "When pigs fly" actually mean?

"When pigs fly" is an idiomatic expression signifying that something will never happen. It's used to express disbelief or impossibility.

Are there any similar expressions to "When pigs fly"?

Yes, you can use expressions like "when hell freezes over", "not a chance", or "impossible" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "When pigs fly" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "When pigs fly" is generally considered informal. It's better suited for casual conversations or less formal writing. Consider using more direct language, such as "it is unlikely" or "it is impossible", in formal contexts.