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The Idiom 'When Pigs Fly': Origins and Cultural Significance

At a Glance

Title: The Idiom 'When Pigs Fly': Origins and Cultural Significance

Total Categories: 5

Category Stats

  • Understanding the Idiom: 6 flashcards, 13 questions
  • Historical Roots and Early Mentions: 4 flashcards, 7 questions
  • Global Parallels: 12 flashcards, 20 questions
  • Literary and Media Adaptations: 11 flashcards, 15 questions
  • Symbolism and Related Concepts: 9 flashcards, 16 questions

Total Stats

  • Total Flashcards: 42
  • True/False Questions: 40
  • Multiple Choice Questions: 31
  • Total Questions: 71

Instructions

Click the button to expand the instructions for how to use the Wiki2Web Teacher studio in order to print, edit, and export data about The Idiom 'When Pigs Fly': Origins and Cultural Significance

Welcome to Your Curriculum Command Center

This guide will turn you into a Wiki2web Studio power user. Let's unlock the features designed to give you back your weekends.

The Core Concept: What is a "Kit"?

Think of a Kit as your all-in-one digital lesson plan. It's a single, portable file that contains every piece of content for a topic: your subject categories, a central image, all your flashcards, and all your questions. The true power of the Studio is speed—once a kit is made (or you import one), you are just minutes away from printing an entire set of coursework.

Getting Started is Simple:

  • Create New Kit: Start with a clean slate. Perfect for a brand-new lesson idea.
  • Import & Edit Existing Kit: Load a .json kit file from your computer to continue your work or to modify a kit created by a colleague.
  • Restore Session: The Studio automatically saves your progress in your browser. If you get interrupted, you can restore your unsaved work with one click.

Step 1: Laying the Foundation (The Authoring Tools)

This is where you build the core knowledge of your Kit. Use the left-side navigation panel to switch between these powerful authoring modules.

⚙️ Kit Manager: Your Kit's Identity

This is the high-level control panel for your project.

  • Kit Name: Give your Kit a clear title. This will appear on all your printed materials.
  • Master Image: Upload a custom cover image for your Kit. This is essential for giving your content a professional visual identity, and it's used as the main graphic when you export your Kit as an interactive game.
  • Topics: Create the structure for your lesson. Add topics like "Chapter 1," "Vocabulary," or "Key Formulas." All flashcards and questions will be organized under these topics.

🃏 Flashcard Author: Building the Knowledge Blocks

Flashcards are the fundamental concepts of your Kit. Create them here to define terms, list facts, or pose simple questions.

  • Click "➕ Add New Flashcard" to open the editor.
  • Fill in the term/question and the definition/answer.
  • Assign the flashcard to one of your pre-defined topics.
  • To edit or remove a flashcard, simply use the ✏️ (Edit) or ❌ (Delete) icons next to any entry in the list.

✍️ Question Author: Assessing Understanding

Create a bank of questions to test knowledge. These questions are the engine for your worksheets and exams.

  • Click "➕ Add New Question".
  • Choose a Type: True/False for quick checks or Multiple Choice for more complex assessments.
  • To edit an existing question, click the ✏️ icon. You can change the question text, options, correct answer, and explanation at any time.
  • The Explanation field is a powerful tool: the text you enter here will automatically appear on the teacher's answer key and on the Smart Study Guide, providing instant feedback.

🔗 Intelligent Mapper: The Smart Connection

This is the secret sauce of the Studio. The Mapper transforms your content from a simple list into an interconnected web of knowledge, automating the creation of amazing study guides.

  • Step 1: Select a question from the list on the left.
  • Step 2: In the right panel, click on every flashcard that contains a concept required to answer that question. They will turn green, indicating a successful link.
  • The Payoff: When you generate a Smart Study Guide, these linked flashcards will automatically appear under each question as "Related Concepts."

Step 2: The Magic (The Generator Suite)

You've built your content. Now, with a few clicks, turn it into a full suite of professional, ready-to-use materials. What used to take hours of formatting and copying-and-pasting can now be done in seconds.

🎓 Smart Study Guide Maker

Instantly create the ultimate review document. It combines your questions, the correct answers, your detailed explanations, and all the "Related Concepts" you linked in the Mapper into one cohesive, printable guide.

📝 Worksheet & 📄 Exam Builder

Generate unique assessments every time. The questions and multiple-choice options are randomized automatically. Simply select your topics, choose how many questions you need, and generate:

  • A Student Version, clean and ready for quizzing.
  • A Teacher Version, complete with a detailed answer key and the explanations you wrote.

🖨️ Flashcard Printer

Forget wrestling with table layouts in a word processor. Select a topic, choose a cards-per-page layout, and instantly generate perfectly formatted, print-ready flashcard sheets.

Step 3: Saving and Collaborating

  • 💾 Export & Save Kit: This is your primary save function. It downloads the entire Kit (content, images, and all) to your computer as a single .json file. Use this to create permanent backups and share your work with others.
  • ➕ Import & Merge Kit: Combine your work. You can merge a colleague's Kit into your own or combine two of your lessons into a larger review Kit.

You're now ready to reclaim your time.

You're not just a teacher; you're a curriculum designer, and this is your Studio.

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Text content is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 License (opens in new tab). Additional terms may apply.

Disclaimer: This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute any kind of advice. The information is not a substitute for consulting official sources or records or seeking advice from qualified professionals.


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Study Guide: The Idiom 'When Pigs Fly': Origins and Cultural Significance

Study Guide: The Idiom 'When Pigs Fly': Origins and Cultural Significance

Understanding the Idiom

The phrase 'when pigs fly' is linguistically classified as which type of figure of speech, characterized by extreme exaggeration to denote impossibility?

Answer: True

The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a rhetorical device employing extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What Latin expression is employed to signify an event that will never occur?: The Latin expression is 'ad kalendas graecas,' meaning 'to the Greek calends,' signifying a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'

Does the idiom 'when pigs fly' suggest that the situation under discussion is highly probable or imminent?

Answer: False

Contrary to implying likelihood, the idiom 'when pigs fly' signifies that the situation is impossible and will not occur.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

Is the phrase 'when pigs fly' typically employed as a sincere expression of optimism?

Answer: False

The phrase 'when pigs fly' is generally used sarcastically or humorously to denote impossibility, not as a genuine expression of optimism.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

Besides indicating impossibility, does the phrase 'when pigs fly' serve other functions, such as humor or mocking excessive ambition?

Answer: True

The phrase 'when pigs fly' is frequently employed for humorous effect and to satirize over-ambition, in addition to denoting impossibility.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

If someone with a history of failure unexpectedly succeeds, might onlookers sarcastically remark 'A flying pig!'?

Answer: True

Onlookers might sarcastically exclaim 'A flying pig!' to acknowledge an unexpected success, highlighting its improbability.

Related Concepts:

  • In what manner might observers employ the phrase 'when pigs fly' in response to an individual with a history of failure achieving unexpected success?: Observers might sarcastically exclaim 'A flying pig!' to acknowledge the unexpected success, highlighting its improbability.

Is the variation 'And pigs will fly' used to express agreement with an outlandish statement?

Answer: False

The variation 'And pigs will fly' is typically used in response to an outlandish statement, implying agreement with its absurdity rather than genuine affirmation.

Related Concepts:

  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.

The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as which specific type of figurative language, characterized by extreme exaggeration to denote impossibility?

Answer: Adynaton, using extreme exaggeration for an impossibility.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.

What is the primary implication when someone uses the phrase 'when pigs fly'?

Answer: That the event is impossible and will never happen.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

How is the phrase 'when pigs fly' typically used in conversation?

Answer: As a sarcastic remark indicating impossibility.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.

Besides stating impossibility, what other function does the phrase 'when pigs fly' often serve?

Answer: For humorous effect and to satirize over-ambition.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

What is the meaning of the variation 'And pigs will fly'?

Answer: It is used in response to an outlandish statement.

Related Concepts:

  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.

The phrase 'when pigs fly' is an example of which type of figurative language?

Answer: Adynaton

Related Concepts:

  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.

Beyond signifying impossibility, for what additional purpose is the phrase 'when pigs fly' frequently employed?

Answer: For humorous effect and to satirize excessive ambition.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

Historical Roots and Early Mentions

Are variations of the phrase 'when pigs fly' documented as being in use since the early 1700s?

Answer: False

Evidence suggests that variations of the phrase have been in use since the 17th century, not the early 18th century.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.

Is the idiom 'when pigs fly' believed to originate from an ancient Greek proverb?

Answer: False

The idiom's origins are not traced to ancient Greek proverbs but rather to older European expressions of impossibility, possibly including Scottish proverbs.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What Latin expression is employed to signify an event that will never occur?: The Latin expression is 'ad kalendas graecas,' meaning 'to the Greek calends,' signifying a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'
  • What is the meaning conveyed by the Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas'?: The Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas' means 'to the Greek calends,' and it is used to signify a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'

Did François Rabelais, in his 1553 work, describe a winged swine that bore a resemblance to a windmill?

Answer: True

François Rabelais's 1553 publication, 'Gargantua and Pantagruel,' includes a depiction of a large, winged swine, likened to a windmill.

Related Concepts:

  • In what manner did François Rabelais depict a winged swine in his literary works?: In his 1553 work 'Gargantua and Pantagruel,' Rabelais described a large, winged swine that bore a resemblance to a windmill.

Did John Moore-Brabazon, 1st Baron Brabazon of Tara, fly with a piglet in 1909, an event referenced in an image caption?

Answer: True

An image caption references John Moore-Brabazon, the 1st Baron Brabazon of Tara, who undertook an aeroplane flight accompanied by a piglet in 1909.

Related Concepts:

  • What historical event is referenced by an image caption concerning aviation and pigs?: An image caption references John Moore-Brabazon, the 1st Baron Brabazon of Tara, who took a piglet with him on an aeroplane flight in 1909.

Approximately since which century have variations of the idiom 'when pigs fly' been in circulation?

Answer: The 17th century

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.
  • What is the classification of the phrase 'when pigs fly' within the study of figurative language?: The phrase 'when pigs fly' is classified as an adynaton, a figure of speech that employs extreme exaggeration to signify an impossibility.

What is the purported origin of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?

Answer: A historical Scottish proverb.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • Does a direct literal translation of 'when pigs fly' exist in the Spanish language?: Yes, the Spanish phrase 'Cuando los chanchos vuelen' literally translates to 'when pigs fly.'
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

In which work did François Rabelais describe a winged swine?

Answer: Gargantua and Pantagruel

Related Concepts:

  • In what manner did François Rabelais depict a winged swine in his literary works?: In his 1553 work 'Gargantua and Pantagruel,' Rabelais described a large, winged swine that bore a resemblance to a windmill.

Global Parallels

Do similar English idioms expressing improbability include 'when hell freezes over' and 'monkeys might fly out of my butt'?

Answer: True

Idioms such as 'when hell freezes over' and 'monkeys might fly out of my butt' are comparable English expressions used to denote impossibility, similar to 'when pigs fly'.

Related Concepts:

  • What are two analogous English idioms used to express improbability?: Two analogous English idioms are 'when hell freezes over' and 'monkeys might fly out of my butt,' the latter popularized by 'Wayne's World.' These are examples of adynata.

Is the Spanish phrase 'Cuando los chanchos vuelen' a literal translation of 'when pigs fly'?

Answer: True

The Spanish phrase 'Cuando los chanchos vuelen' directly translates to 'when pigs fly,' serving as a parallel expression of impossibility.

Related Concepts:

  • Does a direct literal translation of 'when pigs fly' exist in the Spanish language?: Yes, the Spanish phrase 'Cuando los chanchos vuelen' literally translates to 'when pigs fly.'
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

Does the Romanian expression 'La Paștele cailor' signify an impossible event, similar to 'when pigs fly'?

Answer: True

The Romanian expression 'La Paștele cailor,' meaning 'on horses' Easter,' is used to denote an impossible event, functioning similarly to 'when pigs fly'.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the Romanian expression used to convey impossibility, analogous to 'when pigs fly'?: In Romanian, 'Când o zbura porcul' (When the pig shall fly) is used, along with 'La Paștele cailor' (on horses' Easter).
  • What Latin expression is employed to signify an event that will never occur?: The Latin expression is 'ad kalendas graecas,' meaning 'to the Greek calends,' signifying a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'

Does the Latin expression 'ad kalendas graecas' mean 'when pigs fly' and refer to a possible future event?

Answer: False

The Latin expression 'ad kalendas graecas' signifies a date that will never occur, akin to 'when pigs fly,' but it does not mean 'when pigs fly' and refers to an impossible, not possible, future event.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the meaning conveyed by the Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas'?: The Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas' means 'to the Greek calends,' and it is used to signify a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'
  • What Latin expression is employed to signify an event that will never occur?: The Latin expression is 'ad kalendas graecas,' meaning 'to the Greek calends,' signifying a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.

Does the German equivalent 'Wenn Schweine fliegen können!' translate to 'If pigs could fly, everything would be possible.'?

Answer: False

The German phrase 'Wenn Schweine fliegen können!' directly translates to 'When pigs can fly!'. The phrase 'If pigs had wings, everything would be possible' is a related, older proverb.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the German equivalent of 'when pigs fly,' and what is an older, related proverbial expression?: The German equivalent is 'Wenn Schweine fliegen können!' (When pigs can fly!). An older proverb is 'Wenn Schweine Flügel hätten, wäre alles möglich' (if pigs had wings, everything would be possible).
  • What specific event prompted the Irish secret agent's exclamation, 'Mother of God! Flying pigs!' in 'The Eagle Has Landed'?: He exclaimed this upon witnessing German soldiers parachuting, an event he considered as improbable as pigs flying.

In Finnish, is the expression 'kun lehmät lentävät' (when cows fly) used primarily due to its literal meaning?

Answer: False

The Finnish expression 'kun lehmät lentävät' (when cows fly) is employed primarily for its alliterative quality, not for its literal meaning.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the reason for the usage of the Finnish phrase 'when cows fly'?: In Finnish, the expression 'kun lehvät lentävät' (when cows fly) is used because of its alliterative quality.

Does the Swedish phrase 'när grisar flyger' have the same meaning as the English idiom 'when pigs fly'?

Answer: True

The Swedish phrase 'när grisar flyger' is identical in meaning to the English idiom 'when pigs fly,' signifying impossibility.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the Swedish phrase that carries the identical meaning to the English idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The Swedish phrase is 'när grisar flyger,' which is identical in meaning to the English saying.
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is the German equivalent of 'when pigs fly,' and what is an older, related proverbial expression?: The German equivalent is 'Wenn Schweine fliegen können!' (When pigs can fly!). An older proverb is 'Wenn Schweine Flügel hätten, wäre alles möglich' (if pigs had wings, everything would be possible).

Is the common French expression for impossibility 'quand les poules auront des dents', meaning 'when the hens have teeth'?

Answer: True

The prevalent French expression for an impossible event is 'quand les poules auront des dents,' which translates to 'when the hens have teeth.'

Related Concepts:

  • What is the prevalent French expression used to denote an impossible event?: The most prevalent French expression is 'quand les poules auront des dents' (when the hens have teeth).

Does the Russian expression 'kogda rak na gore svistnet' literally mean 'when the crab whistles on the mountain'?

Answer: False

The Russian expression 'kogda rak na gore svistnet' literally translates to 'when the crayfish will whistle on the mountain,' signifying an impossible event.

Related Concepts:

  • What is a widely recognized Russian expression for impossibility, and what is its literal translation?: A widely recognized Russian expression is 'когда рак на горе свистнет' (kogda rak na gore svistnet), which literally means 'when the crayfish will whistle on the mountain.'

Does a medieval Hebrew expression for something that will never happen involve a donkey climbing a ladder?

Answer: True

A medieval Hebrew expression found in manuscripts signifies impossibility by referring to 'until the donkey ascends the ladder.'

Related Concepts:

  • What medieval Hebrew expression is used to signify an event that is destined never to occur?: A medieval Hebrew expression attested in manuscripts is 'until the donkey ascends the ladder.'

Does the Egyptian Arabic proverb 'bukra fil mish-mish' refer to an event that is certain to happen tomorrow?

Answer: False

The Egyptian Arabic proverb 'bukra fil mish-mish' signifies an event that will never happen, literally meaning 'tomorrow when the apricots bloom,' referencing their brief and perishable season.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the Egyptian Arabic proverb that denotes an impossible event, and what is its literal interpretation?: The Egyptian Arabic proverb is 'bukra fil mish-mish' (tomorrow when the apricots bloom), referring to something that will never happen because apricots have a very short, perishable season in Egypt.

Does the Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas' signify a date that is guaranteed to occur?

Answer: False

The Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas' signifies a date that will never occur, functioning as an idiom for impossibility.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the meaning conveyed by the Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas'?: The Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas' means 'to the Greek calends,' and it is used to signify a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'
  • What Latin expression is employed to signify an event that will never occur?: The Latin expression is 'ad kalendas graecas,' meaning 'to the Greek calends,' signifying a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a similar English idiom expressing improbability?

Answer: When the moon turns blue

Related Concepts:

  • What is the typical context in which 'when pigs fly' is used as a remark?: It is typically employed as a sarcastic remark to indicate that something is impossible.

What is the literal translation of the Spanish phrase 'Cuando los chanchos vuelen'?

Answer: When the pigs fly

Related Concepts:

  • Does a direct literal translation of 'when pigs fly' exist in the Spanish language?: Yes, the Spanish phrase 'Cuando los chanchos vuelen' literally translates to 'when pigs fly.'

What is the Romanian expression for impossibility that means 'on horses' Easter'?

Answer: La Paștele cailor

Related Concepts:

  • What is the Romanian expression used to convey impossibility, analogous to 'when pigs fly'?: In Romanian, 'Când o zbura porcul' (When the pig shall fly) is used, along with 'La Paștele cailor' (on horses' Easter).

The Latin expression 'ad kalendas graecas' is used to signify:

Answer: A date that will never occur.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the meaning conveyed by the Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas'?: The Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas' means 'to the Greek calends,' and it is used to signify a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'
  • What Latin expression is employed to signify an event that will never occur?: The Latin expression is 'ad kalendas graecas,' meaning 'to the Greek calends,' signifying a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'

What is the German equivalent of 'when pigs fly'?

Answer: Wenn Schweine fliegen können!

Related Concepts:

  • What is the German equivalent of 'when pigs fly,' and what is an older, related proverbial expression?: The German equivalent is 'Wenn Schweine fliegen können!' (When pigs can fly!). An older proverb is 'Wenn Schweine Flügel hätten, wäre alles möglich' (if pigs had wings, everything would be possible).
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.
  • What is an alternative variation of the 'when pigs fly' idiom, and under what circumstances is it typically employed?: Another variation is 'And pigs will fly,' which is typically used in response to an outlandish statement.

The Egyptian Arabic proverb 'bukra fil mish-mish' refers to something that will happen:

Answer: Never.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the Egyptian Arabic proverb that denotes an impossible event, and what is its literal interpretation?: The Egyptian Arabic proverb is 'bukra fil mish-mish' (tomorrow when the apricots bloom), referring to something that will never happen because apricots have a very short, perishable season in Egypt.

What is the literal meaning of the Egyptian Arabic proverb 'bukra fil mish-mish'?

Answer: When the apricots bloom.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the Egyptian Arabic proverb that denotes an impossible event, and what is its literal interpretation?: The Egyptian Arabic proverb is 'bukra fil mish-mish' (tomorrow when the apricots bloom), referring to something that will never happen because apricots have a very short, perishable season in Egypt.

What is the meaning of the Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas'?

Answer: A date that will never occur.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the meaning conveyed by the Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas'?: The Latin phrase 'ad kalendas graecas' means 'to the Greek calends,' and it is used to signify a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'
  • What Latin expression is employed to signify an event that will never occur?: The Latin expression is 'ad kalendas graecas,' meaning 'to the Greek calends,' signifying a date that will never occur, similar to 'when pigs fly.'

Literary and Media Adaptations

Does the phrase 'when pigs fly' appear in Lewis Carroll's 'Through the Looking-Glass'?

Answer: False

While Lewis Carroll utilized related concepts, the specific phrase 'when pigs fly' does not appear verbatim in 'Through the Looking-Glass,' though similar sentiments are present in his works.

Related Concepts:

  • In what context does the phrase 'pigs have wings' manifest within Lewis Carroll's 'Through the Looking-Glass'?: In 'Through the Looking-Glass,' the Walrus asks, 'And whether pigs have wings,' as part of a conversation.
  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.

In Lewis Carroll's 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland,' does the Duchess tell Alice that pigs have the same right to fly as she does?

Answer: False

In 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland,' the Duchess states, 'Pigs have the same right to fly as I have,' implying impossibility, not equality of right.

Related Concepts:

  • Could you provide an instance of the phrase 'when pigs fly' as it appears in Lewis Carroll's 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'?: In Chapter 9, the Duchess states to Alice, 'Pigs have the same right to fly as I have,' implying impossibility.

Does the phrase 'pigs have wings' appear in Lewis Carroll's 'Through the Looking-Glass'?

Answer: True

In 'Through the Looking-Glass,' the Walrus asks, 'And whether pigs have wings,' as part of a conversation, referencing the concept.

Related Concepts:

  • In what context does the phrase 'pigs have wings' manifest within Lewis Carroll's 'Through the Looking-Glass'?: In 'Through the Looking-Glass,' the Walrus asks, 'And whether pigs have wings,' as part of a conversation.

In the film 'The Eagle Has Landed,' did an Irish agent use 'Pigs may fly' to dismiss a German general's unrealistic claim about winning World War II?

Answer: True

In 'The Eagle Has Landed,' an Irish secret agent responded to a German general's unrealistic claim about winning World War II by stating, 'Pigs may fly, General, but I doubt it!'

Related Concepts:

  • In the film 'The Eagle Has Landed,' how was the expression 'pigs may fly' utilized?: An Irish secret agent responded to a German general's unrealistic claim about winning World War II by stating, 'Pigs may fly, General, but I doubt it!'

Did the Irish secret agent in 'The Eagle Has Landed' exclaim 'Flying pigs!' upon witnessing German tanks arriving?

Answer: False

The Irish secret agent exclaimed 'Flying pigs!' upon witnessing German soldiers parachuting, an event he considered as improbable as pigs flying, not upon seeing tanks.

Related Concepts:

  • In the film 'The Eagle Has Landed,' how was the expression 'pigs may fly' utilized?: An Irish secret agent responded to a German general's unrealistic claim about winning World War II by stating, 'Pigs may fly, General, but I doubt it!'

Did the mobile game 'Bad Piggies' feature an episode titled 'When Pigs Fly' in 2012?

Answer: True

The mobile game 'Bad Piggies' included an episode titled 'When Pigs Fly' as part of its third episode update in 2012.

Related Concepts:

  • In which year and specific context did the mobile game 'Bad Piggies' present an episode titled 'When Pigs Fly'?: The mobile game 'Bad Piggies' featured an episode titled 'When Pigs Fly' in its third episode update in 2012.

Did a winged pig character named Pigasus appear in the Oz books written by L. Frank Baum?

Answer: False

The winged pig character Pigasus appeared in the Oz books authored by Ruth Plumly Thompson, not L. Frank Baum.

Related Concepts:

  • In which literary series did the character of Pigasus, a winged pig, make its appearance?: A winged pig character named Pigasus appeared in the Oz books authored by Ruth Plumly Thompson in the 1930s.
  • Specify the two Oz books in which the character Pigasus played a significant role.: Pigasus first appeared in 'Pirates in Oz' (1931) and played a significant role in 'The Wishing Horse of Oz.'

Did Pigasus, the winged pig, first appear in 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz'?

Answer: False

Pigasus, the winged pig, first appeared in 'Pirates in Oz' (1931), not 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz'.

Related Concepts:

  • In which literary series did the character of Pigasus, a winged pig, make its appearance?: A winged pig character named Pigasus appeared in the Oz books authored by Ruth Plumly Thompson in the 1930s.
  • Specify the two Oz books in which the character Pigasus played a significant role.: Pigasus first appeared in 'Pirates in Oz' (1931) and played a significant role in 'The Wishing Horse of Oz.'
  • What is 'Pigasus,' and how is this term etymologically constructed?: 'Pigasus' is a portmanteau word combining 'pig' and 'Pegasus' (the winged horse), used to refer to a pig with wings.

Did Mark Kistler's drawing instruction videos sometimes feature a Pigasus?

Answer: True

Mark Kistler's drawing instruction videos are noted for occasionally featuring the character Pigasus.

Related Concepts:

  • Who else is noted for featuring Pigasus in their instructional drawing videos?: Mark Kistler's drawing instruction videos are noted for occasionally featuring the character Pigasus.

Is an image related to 'when pigs fly' depicted as a weather vane shaped like a pig?

Answer: True

One visual representation associated with the phrase 'when pigs fly' depicts a weather vane fashioned in the shape of a flying pig.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.

In 'The Eagle Has Landed,' what event caused the Irish secret agent to exclaim 'Flying pigs!'?

Answer: The sight of German soldiers parachuting.

Related Concepts:

  • In the film 'The Eagle Has Landed,' how was the expression 'pigs may fly' utilized?: An Irish secret agent responded to a German general's unrealistic claim about winning World War II by stating, 'Pigs may fly, General, but I doubt it!'

Which mobile game featured an episode titled 'When Pigs Fly' in 2012?

Answer: Bad Piggies

Related Concepts:

  • In which year and specific context did the mobile game 'Bad Piggies' present an episode titled 'When Pigs Fly'?: The mobile game 'Bad Piggies' featured an episode titled 'When Pigs Fly' in its third episode update in 2012.

In which literary series did the character of Pigasus, a winged pig, make its appearance?

Answer: The Oz series authored by Ruth Plumly Thompson

Related Concepts:

  • In which literary series did the character of Pigasus, a winged pig, make its appearance?: A winged pig character named Pigasus appeared in the Oz books authored by Ruth Plumly Thompson in the 1930s.

Specify the two Oz books in which the character Pigasus played a significant role.

Answer: Pirates in Oz and The Wishing Horse of Oz

Related Concepts:

  • Specify the two Oz books in which the character Pigasus played a significant role.: Pigasus first appeared in 'Pirates in Oz' (1931) and played a significant role in 'The Wishing Horse of Oz.'
  • In which literary series did the character of Pigasus, a winged pig, make its appearance?: A winged pig character named Pigasus appeared in the Oz books authored by Ruth Plumly Thompson in the 1930s.

What object is depicted in one of the visual representations associated with the phrase 'when pigs fly'?

Answer: A weather vane shaped like a flying pig.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary implication conveyed by the usage of the idiom 'when pigs fly'?: The primary implication of employing the phrase 'when pigs fly' is that the circumstances or event being discussed are impossible and will not materialize.

Symbolism and Related Concepts

Is Pigasus a term combining 'pig' and 'Pegasus' to describe a winged horse?

Answer: False

Pigasus is a portmanteau combining 'pig' and 'Pegasus' to describe a pig with wings, not a winged horse.

Related Concepts:

  • What is 'Pigasus,' and how is this term etymologically constructed?: 'Pigasus' is a portmanteau word combining 'pig' and 'Pegasus' (the winged horse), used to refer to a pig with wings.
  • In which literary series did the character of Pigasus, a winged pig, make its appearance?: A winged pig character named Pigasus appeared in the Oz books authored by Ruth Plumly Thompson in the 1930s.

Did John Steinbeck use the motto 'Ad astra per alia porci' (to the stars on the wings of a pig) after his professor doubted his writing career?

Answer: True

John Steinbeck adopted the motto 'Ad astra per alia porci' after his professor expressed doubt about his literary aspirations, signifying achievement against skepticism.

Related Concepts:

  • In what manner did John Steinbeck incorporate the concept of a winged pig into his academic and professional trajectory?: Steinbeck's professor told him he would become an author when pigs flew. After achieving success, Steinbeck printed his books with the Dog Latin motto 'Ad astra per alia porci,' meaning 'to the stars on the wings of a pig.'

Is Steinbeck's motto 'Ad astra per alia porci' grammatically correct Latin for 'to the stars on the wings of a pig'?

Answer: False

Steinbeck's motto 'Ad astra per alia porci' contains a grammatical error; 'alia' should be 'alas' to correctly signify 'wings' in this context.

Related Concepts:

  • In what manner did John Steinbeck incorporate the concept of a winged pig into his academic and professional trajectory?: Steinbeck's professor told him he would become an author when pigs flew. After achieving success, Steinbeck printed his books with the Dog Latin motto 'Ad astra per alia porci,' meaning 'to the stars on the wings of a pig.'

Did John Steinbeck view Pigasus as a symbol of someone earthbound but aspiring, despite limited means?

Answer: True

John Steinbeck described Pigasus as a symbol representing an individual who is grounded yet aspirational, possessing limited capacity but strong intention.

Related Concepts:

  • How did John Steinbeck characterize his symbolic creation, Pigasus?: Steinbeck regarded Pigasus as a symbol representing an individual who was earthbound yet aspiring, possessing limited wingspan but considerable intent.

Did RFC 1925 humorously suggest that pigs cannot fly, regardless of thrust?

Answer: False

RFC 1925 humorously posits that 'with sufficient thrust, pigs fly just fine,' contrary to suggesting they cannot fly.

Related Concepts:

  • What humorous assertion regarding the flight capabilities of pigs is presented in RFC 1925?: RFC 1925, a humorous internet memorandum, asserts that 'with sufficient thrust, pigs fly just fine.'

Does the domestic pig's scientific classification include the genus 'Sus' and species 'domesticus'?

Answer: True

The scientific classification of the domestic pig includes the genus 'Sus' and the species 'domesticus' (Sus domesticus).

Related Concepts:

  • What is the scientific classification of the domestic pig, as detailed in the provided text?: The domestic pig belongs to the Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Mammalia, Order Artiodactyla, Suborder Suina, Family Suidae, Subfamily Suinae, Genus Sus, and the species Sus domesticus.

Are common pork cuts mentioned including ham hock, pork belly, and pork chops?

Answer: True

Common culinary cuts of pork listed include ham hock, pork belly, and pork chops, among others.

Related Concepts:

  • What are some commonly recognized culinary cuts of pork that are listed in the text?: Common cuts of pork listed include back bacon, Boston butt, fatback, ham hock, pigs trotters, pork belly, pork chop, pork jowl, loin, tenderloin, ribs, spare ribs, pork rind, pork steak, ear, and tail.

Do cultural references to pigs include characters like Miss Piggy, Porky Pig, and the story 'The Three Little Pigs'?

Answer: True

Notable cultural references to pigs include fictional characters such as Miss Piggy and Porky Pig, and the narrative 'The Three Little Pigs'.

Related Concepts:

  • What are some notable cultural references involving pigs that are mentioned in the text?: Cultural references include fictional characters like Freddy the Pig, Miss Piggy, Porky Pig, Piglet, and characters from 'Animal Farm' and 'Babe,' as well as stories like 'The Three Little Pigs' and 'Charlotte's Web.'

John Steinbeck used the motto 'Ad astra per alia porci' which translates to:

Answer: To the stars on the wings of a pig.

Related Concepts:

  • In what manner did John Steinbeck incorporate the concept of a winged pig into his academic and professional trajectory?: Steinbeck's professor told him he would become an author when pigs flew. After achieving success, Steinbeck printed his books with the Dog Latin motto 'Ad astra per alia porci,' meaning 'to the stars on the wings of a pig.'

What grammatical error exists in Steinbeck's motto 'Ad astra per alia porci'?

Answer: The use of 'alia' instead of 'alas' for 'wings'.

Related Concepts:

  • In what manner did John Steinbeck incorporate the concept of a winged pig into his academic and professional trajectory?: Steinbeck's professor told him he would become an author when pigs flew. After achieving success, Steinbeck printed his books with the Dog Latin motto 'Ad astra per alia porci,' meaning 'to the stars on the wings of a pig.'

How did John Steinbeck describe his symbolic creation, Pigasus?

Answer: A symbol of an earthbound yet aspiring individual, possessing limited wingspan but considerable intent.

Related Concepts:

  • How did John Steinbeck characterize his symbolic creation, Pigasus?: Steinbeck regarded Pigasus as a symbol representing an individual who was earthbound yet aspiring, possessing limited wingspan but considerable intent.

What humorous assertion regarding the flight capabilities of pigs is presented in RFC 1925?

Answer: With adequate thrust, pigs can indeed fly.

Related Concepts:

  • What humorous assertion regarding the flight capabilities of pigs is presented in RFC 1925?: RFC 1925, a humorous internet memorandum, asserts that 'with sufficient thrust, pigs fly just fine.'

Which of the following is identified as a common culinary cut derived from pork?

Answer: All of the above

Related Concepts:

  • What are some commonly recognized culinary cuts of pork that are listed in the text?: Common cuts of pork listed include back bacon, Boston butt, fatback, ham hock, pigs trotters, pork belly, pork chop, pork jowl, loin, tenderloin, ribs, spare ribs, pork rind, pork steak, ear, and tail.

Which of the following is cited as a notable cultural reference involving pigs?

Answer: All of the above

Related Concepts:

  • What are some notable cultural references involving pigs that are mentioned in the text?: Cultural references include fictional characters like Freddy the Pig, Miss Piggy, Porky Pig, Piglet, and characters from 'Animal Farm' and 'Babe,' as well as stories like 'The Three Little Pigs' and 'Charlotte's Web.'

The scientific classification of a domestic pig includes which genus?

Answer: Sus

Related Concepts:

  • What is the scientific classification of the domestic pig, as detailed in the provided text?: The domestic pig belongs to the Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Mammalia, Order Artiodactyla, Suborder Suina, Family Suidae, Subfamily Suinae, Genus Sus, and the species Sus domesticus.

Which of the following is NOT listed as a farming-related term associated with pigs?

Answer: Piggy bank

Related Concepts:

  • What are some terms related to pig husbandry and farming that are mentioned in the text?: Terms related to pig husbandry include intensive farming, sty, pannage, pig toilet, hog oiler, gestation crate, cross-fostering, swineherd, and feedback in the pork industry.

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