When Pigs Fly Idiom Meaning with Example

  • Updated on  
  • February 6, 2026
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when pigs fly idiom meaning

The idiom “when pigs fly” is used to express that something is highly unlikely or improbable to happen. It implies that the event being discussed is so unlikely that even if pigs were to sprout wings and fly, it still wouldn’t occur or happen. Sometimes, we get confused about how to use the idiom, this article is for you. Here, we have mentioned in detail the meaning, examples, quiz, and more for the idiom, When Pigs Fly.

Also Read: Look Before You Leap

Usage with Examples

Overall, the phrase “when pigs fly” is used to convey a sense of impossibility or disbelief regarding the occurrence of a particular event or action.

Mentioned below are some examples where you can use the idiom when pigs fly:

  • Oh, you think they’ll solve world hunger? Only when pigs fly!
  • I’ll clean my room when pigs fly.
  • You think politicians will keep their promises? Ha, that’ll happen when pigs fly.
  • “When pigs fly, I’ll start enjoying brussels sprouts.

Also Read: Play By the Ear

Synonyms and Similar Words To When Pigs Fly

However, mentioned below are a few synonyms and related words to when pigs fly:

  • blue moon
  • dog’s age
  • eternity
  • indefinitely long period

When Pigs Fly Idiom Quiz

Q1. What does the idiom “when pigs fly” mean?
a) Something that will happen soon
b) Something that is impossible or very unlikely
c) Something surprising
d) Something funny

Q2. Choose the correct sentence:
a) I finished my homework when pigs fly.
b) He will wake up early every day, when pigs fly.
c) She eats pigs when pigs fly.
d) When pigs fly, the sky is blue.

Q3. In which situation would you use “when pigs fly”?
a) Talking about daily routines
b) Describing a past event
c) Saying something will probably never happen
d) Giving instructions

Q4. “I’ll stop using my phone all day—when pigs fly.” This sentence shows:
a) Excitement
b) Certainty
c) Impossibility
d) Advice

Q5. Is “when pigs fly” a literal or figurative expression?
a) Literal
b) Scientific
c) Figurative
d) Historical

Answer Key:
Q1–b

Q2–b

Q3–c

Q4–c

Q5–c

Also Read: Rain On My Parade

FAQs

1. When pigs fly idiom example?

One of the examples of when pigs fly idiom includes: “I’ll do my homework, and I’ll clean my room when pigs fly”. It means it is an idiom that is used to describe something that will never happen

2. How to explain when pigs fly to a child?

It means something that cannot happen, because pigs can’t actually fly. It’s a more humorous way of saying probably never.

3. When was when pigs fly first used?

Use of the phrase dates back to at least the 17th century in England when the phrase was used to humorously describe an impossible situation.

4. How to use time flies idiom in a sentence?

Here is the example where a time flies idiom is used in a sentence: “Time flies when you’re at a family reunion.” It means that time seems to pass very quickly.

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This was all about the when pigs fly idiom meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.

Vaishnavi has 2+ years of experience in SEO and Content Marketing. She is highly proficient in English, possessing exceptional language skills and a deep understanding of English grammar and communication. Currently working on Ed Tech, Finance, Lifestyle, and other niches. All her works are infused with love for writing!

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