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When pigs fly

Idiomatic Phrase
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

An idiomatic expression meaning something that will never happen, using the absurd image of pigs flying to emphasize impossibility, improbability, or complete disbelief in occurrence.

Detailed Definition
When pigs fly means never, or only when something impossible happens. In poetry, the idiom uses comic impossibility to express disbelief, sarcasm, or stubborn refusal. The image of pigs flying is absurdly visual, making it useful in humorous verse, satire, quarrels, or fantastical contrast. A poet may use it to dismiss a hope, expose cynicism, or playfully imagine a world where impossibilities occur. The phrase is useful for exploring scepticism, fantasy, and the boundary between realism and wonder.
Example
Example in poetry:
Kenn Nesbitt's children's poem "When Pigs Fly" humorously declares "I've heard it said that pigs will fly" to explore impossibility with playful irony.; Educational use: Adds sarcasm in satirical poetry about unrealistic hopes.; "When pigs fly across divided skies" dismisses ideals in protest verses.; Cynical lines use it for social commentary on unattainable equality or peace.
Additional Notes
Humorous hyperbolic dismissal from rural folklore, excellent for satirical or protest poetry mocking unrealistic ideals. Professors can use it to teach irony and exaggeration techniques. Tip for students: Contrast with hopeful visions in couplets for comedic effect; relates to "when hell freezes over," enabling critique of social promises or personal dreams, adding levity while underscoring cynicism in political or relational verses.
Also Known As
When hell freezes over Not in a million years Never going to happen Over my dead body Till the cows come home ad kalendas graecas
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