When pigs fly Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈhwɛn/, /ˈhwɪn/, /ˈwɛn/, /ˈwɪn/ /ˈpɪɡz/ /ˈfɫaɪ

HWEN pigz FLY or WIN pigz FLY

UK

wˈɛn/ /pˈɪɡz/ /flˈaɪ

WEN pigz FLY

Definition

This is a humorous expression meaning that something will never happen or is impossible.

Usage & Nuances

Used informally or jokingly to show disbelief or strong doubt. Often responds to unrealistic suggestions. Alternatives in English include 'not in a million years'. Do not use in formal writing.

• Spanish: cuando las vacas vuelen - jamás (expresión idiomática)
• Portuguese (BR): nem que a vaca tussa - nunca (expressão idiomática)
• Portuguese (PT): nem que a vaca tussa - nunca (expressão idiomática)
• Chinese (Simplified): 等到猪会飞的时候（比喻永远不会发生的事）
• Chinese (Traditional): 等到豬會飛的時候（比喻永遠不會發生的事）
• Hindi: जब सुअर उड़ेंगे (असंभव होने का मुहावरा)
• Arabic: عندما تطير الخنازير (تعبير يعني "مستحيل")
• Bengali: যখন শুকর উড়ে - অসম্ভব হবে
• Russian: когда рак на горе свистнет
• Japanese: 豚に翼（ぶたに つばさ）が生えたら - 絶対にありえない
• Vietnamese: khi lợn biết bay - bao giờ cho đến
• Korean: 돼지가 하늘을 날 때
• Turkish: balık kavağa çıkınca - deve hendek atlayınca
• Urdu: جب سور کے پر نکل آئیں
• Indonesian: saat babi bisa terbang

Example Sentences

He will apologize when pigs fly.

basic

I will believe you when pigs fly.

basic

You’ll finish the project on time? Sure, when pigs fly.

basic

She’ll move out of her parents' house when pigs fly.

natural

You think he’ll finally quit smoking? Yeah, when pigs fly.

natural

He said he’d pay me back—when pigs fly!

natural