One app for all your study abroad needs
Pie-in-the-sky idiom refers to a promise or concept that sounds good but is either unrealistic or unlikely to materialise. It implies that something is ideal in theory but impractical in actuality. Make sure to continue reading to find out more about the pie-in-the-sky idiom and how you can use it in the English language. We’ve included a quiz at the end for you to complete.
This Blog Includes:
Pie in the Sky Idiom: Meaning & Origin
“Pie in the sky idiom” means an unrealistic or impossible goal or dream. It often implies something highly unlikely to happen.
Here are a few instances of the pie-in-the-sky idiom to help you see how it might be used in sentences:
- Becoming a millionaire overnight is just pie in the sky.
- His dream of becoming a professional astronaut is just pie in the sky. He doesn’t have the necessary qualifications or experience.
The exact origin of the idiom “pie in the sky” is unclear. It’s believed to have originated in the 19th or early 20th century, possibly from religious or spiritual contexts.
There’s no definitive person or event attributed to its creation. It’s a common idiom that has been used and passed down through generations.
Pie in the Sky Idiom Example Sentences
Let’s look at a few sample sentences on pie in the sky idiom to gain a better understanding of their meaning.
- He’s promising a promotion, but that’s just pie in the sky.
- Thinking we’ll win the lottery is just pie in the sky.
- His dream of owning a private island is pie in the sky.
- The idea of flying cars is pie in the sky.
- Hoping for world peace is pie in the sky.
Synonyms of Pie in the Sky Idiom
If you’re a writer and want to use the pie in the sky in your writing, it could be a good idea for you to be aware of other synonyms for it. You’ll be able to write better and at a higher level thanks to these.
| Utopian | Illusory |
| Fanciful | Chimerical |
A quick look at the image below should help you identify more synonyms for this term. You can always save and save this image for later use.
Must Read: Most Commonly Used Idioms in English
Quiz on Pie in the Sky Idiom
After going through all the information about the pie in the sky idiom, you must check your understanding through this quiz which we have prepared for you. You can check all your answers provided at the end.
What does the “pie in the sky idiom” typically refer to?
A. A delicious dessert
B. A highly improbable or unrealistic goal
C. Something that is very expensive
D. A dream that is easily achievable
Answer: B
Which of the following is a synonym for “pie in the sky”?
A. Down-to-earth
B. Feasible
C. Utopian
D. Practical
Answer: C
In the phrase “pie in the sky,” what does the word “pie” symbolize?
A. A tasty treat
B. A desirable goal
C. A challenge
D. A disappointment
Answer: B
Where does the “pie” exist in the phrase “pie in the sky”?
A. On a plate
B. In a bakery
C. In the clouds
D. In a dream
Answer: C
5. Which of the following is an example of using the idiom “pie in the sky”?
A. “I’m going to bake a pie for dessert.”
B. “He thinks he can become a millionaire overnight. It’s just pie in the sky.”
C. “The pie was delicious.”
D. “She’s always dreaming of pie.”
Answer: B
Short Answer Questions:
6. Explain the meaning of the idiom “pie in the sky” in your own words.
This idiom refers to an unrealistic or impossible goal, often a dream that is unattainable.
7. What is the origin of the idiom “pie in the sky”?
The exact origin of the idiom is unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the 19th century. It might be connected to religious or spiritual beliefs about a heavenly reward or utopia.
8. Can you think of a real-life example of a “pie in the sky” goal?
Some examples of “pie in the sky” goals include winning the lottery, becoming a famous actor, or achieving world peace.
9. How can the idiom “pie in the sky” be used to describe a person’s attitude or outlook?
If someone is described as having “pie in the sky” aspirations, it means they have unrealistic or overly optimistic goals.
10. What is the opposite of “pie in the sky”?
The opposite of “pie in the sky” is “down-to-earth” or “practical.”
Related Reads on Proverbs and Idioms
FAQs
The expression “pie in the sky” refers to an impractical or unattainable objective or aspiration. It frequently suggests something very improbable to occur.
The specific origin of the phrase “pie in the sky” is unclear. It’s believed to have originated in the 19th or early 20th century, possibly from religious or spiritual contexts.
Two examples of this idiom are: “This is a complex and challenging goal that involves numerous factors and countries”, and “While space exploration is advancing, it’s still a distant dream for most people.” These are all examples of goals that are considered “pie in the sky” because they are highly improbable or even impossible to achieve.
You can also follow the Learn English page of Leverage Edu for more exciting and informative blogs related to English grammar and the English language.
45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today.
