When pigs fly

Definition

An expression meaning "never" or "that will never happen," used to indicate that something is impossible or extremely unlikely to occur.

Etymology

This phrase dates back to the early 17th century, with variations appearing in different cultures throughout history. The impossibility of pigs flying made it a perfect metaphor for something that could never happen, and it became a common way to express skepticism about unlikely events.

Kelly Says

Interestingly, this phrase has inspired actual attempts to make pigs "fly" - from catapulting pigs in medieval times to modern promotional stunts where pigs are put on airplanes. The phrase has become so iconic that it's spawned countless variations and parodies across different languages and cultures.

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