The idiom “when pigs fly” is a colorful expression used across the English-speaking world to denote something that is utterly impossible or highly improbable. It’s a humorous and often sarcastic way to express disbelief that a certain event will ever occur. But where did this whimsical phrase come from? Let’s delve into the fascinating origins and history of “when pigs fly,” exploring its literary roots, cultural context, and enduring appeal.
Meaning and Usage
At its core, “when pigs fly” simply means “never.” It’s a figurative statement that emphasizes the unlikelihood of a situation, often in response to an overly optimistic or unrealistic prediction. The phrase is versatile and can be used in various informal contexts to express skepticism or disbelief. Whether it’s a friend claiming they’ll clean their room or a politician promising lower taxes, responding with “when pigs fly” conveys a strong sense of doubt.
Here are a few examples of how “when pigs fly” is used in sentences:
- She’ll start enjoying horror movies when pigs fly; she’s terrified of anything scary.
- My neighbor said he’s going to start exercising daily, but that will happen when pigs fly.
- Do you think they’ll ever release a new season of that show? Pigs may fly!
- He promised to pay me back next week, but pigs might fly before I see that money.
- They expect us to finish this project by Friday? Flying pigs are more likely!
Origins and History
The idiom “when pigs fly” boasts a history that stretches back centuries, with hints and precursors appearing in early literature and proverbs. Its staying power is likely due to its vivid and comical imagery, making it easily memorable and universally relatable. While pinpointing an exact origin is challenging, several historical references and theories shed light on its development.
Early Literary Mentions
One of the earliest intriguing references can be found in François Rabelais’ 16th-century satirical masterpiece, Gargantua and Pantagruel. In the Fourth Book (published in 1552), amidst the fantastical battle against the Chitterlings, Rabelais describes a bizarre creature:
“From the north, a big, fat, gray pig came flying up, with wings as long and wide as those of a windmill… Its eyes were as red and flaming as those of a carbuncle.”
While not the exact phrase, this vivid image of a flying pig from centuries ago suggests the concept was already present in the cultural imagination. Later, in 1616, lexicographer John Withals included “pigs fly in the ayre with their tayles forward” in his dictionary, further solidifying the notion of this impossible event.
Proverbs and Folklore
The idiom also has roots in older proverbs. A Scottish proverb from 1639, “and Pigs May Fly Away with the Tod” (tod being a fox), similarly illustrates an improbable scenario. This proverb uses the image of pigs flying away with a fox, an unnatural and impossible occurrence, to convey the unlikelihood of something happening. The simpler version, “If a pig had wings, it could fly,” also circulated, emphasizing the inherent earthbound nature of pigs.
19th Century Popularity
The 19th century saw the idiom gain more widespread recognition and usage. Lewis Carroll notably popularized a variation in his iconic 1865 novel, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. The Duchess famously quips, “Just about as much right as pigs have to fly,” during a nonsensical conversation with Alice.
This whimsical literary usage undoubtedly contributed to the idiom’s spread and cemented its place in the English language. Furthermore, variations like “pigs might fly” appeared in print, such as in Bell’s Life in London in 1834 and The Liverpool Mercury in 1849, indicating its established presence in common parlance.
Cultural Significance of Pigs
The effectiveness of the idiom “when pigs fly” is also linked to the cultural perception of pigs. Historically, pigs have been associated with grounded, earthly qualities. Unlike birds, they are heavy, land-bound creatures, making the idea of them flying inherently absurd. In various cultures, pigs symbolize different things, from wealth and fertility to gluttony and stubbornness. However, across many traditions, they are firmly rooted in the terrestrial realm.
In Greek mythology, while not directly associated with flying, pigs were linked to Dionysus, often representing earthly pleasures and abundance. Norse mythology features wild boars symbolizing strength and courage, again emphasizing their powerful, grounded nature. This cultural understanding of pigs as decidedly non-flying animals reinforces the impossibility conveyed by the idiom.
Cross-Cultural Equivalents
Interestingly, the concept of expressing impossibility through absurd animal imagery is not unique to English. Many languages have their own colorful idioms that convey the same meaning. For example, the French say “quand les poules auront des dents,” which translates to “when hens have teeth.” Similarly, Spanish speakers use “cuando las ranas críen pelo,” meaning “when frogs grow hair.” These cross-cultural equivalents highlight the universal human tendency to use vivid, impossible scenarios to express disbelief.
Modern Usage and Legacy
“When pigs fly” remains a popular and humorous idiom in modern English. Its enduring appeal lies in its simple yet striking imagery. The phrase effectively and sarcastically conveys skepticism, and its lighthearted tone makes it suitable for informal conversation.
The idiom has even inspired creative adaptations, such as “Pigasus,” the winged pig. Author John Steinbeck famously adopted Pigasus as a personal symbol, representing the aspiration to achieve the impossible and reach beyond perceived limitations.
Synonyms
If you’re looking for alternative ways to express the same sentiment as “when pigs fly,” here are a few synonyms:
- when hell freezes over
- not in a million years
- that will be the day
- over my dead body
- fat chance
In conclusion, “when pigs fly” is a timeless idiom with a rich history and cross-cultural resonance. From its early literary hints to its modern-day usage, the phrase continues to be a witty and effective way to express the impossible. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of vivid imagery and the universal human experience of skepticism.
