Language is full of colorful expressions and idioms that often leave us scratching our heads. One such intriguing phrase is The devil is an ass when pigs fly. It sounds amusing, mysterious, and a bit confusing all at once. What does it really mean? Where does it come from? And how do we use it today?
In this article, we’re going to unpack this phrase in detail—exploring its origins, meaning, and the wisdom it holds. Whether you’re a language lover, a curious reader, or someone who just stumbled upon this odd expression, you’ll find valuable insights here. Let’s dive in!
TRENDING
Understanding 164.68111.161: What You Need To Know
What Does The Devil Is An Ass When Pigs Fly Mean?
At first glance, the phrase looks like a combination of two well-known idioms:
- When pigs fly — a humorous way to say something is impossible or will never happen.
- The devil is an ass — an old expression suggesting the devil is foolish, stubborn, or ridiculous.
Putting them together — “The devil is an ass when pigs fly” — basically means that something will never happen, or a certain belief or event is absurd or impossible.
It’s a playful and exaggerated way to say: “That will never come true, just like pigs flying or the devil acting foolish.”
Breaking Down The Two Main Parts
When Pigs Fly
This part is the more familiar one. Saying something will happen “when pigs fly” is a sarcastic way of saying it’s impossible or extremely unlikely. After all, pigs are grounded creatures, and flying pigs don’t exist in reality.
This idiom has been around for centuries in various forms. It’s used to highlight skepticism or doubt about a statement or a promise.
Examples:
- “I’ll clean my entire room — when pigs fly!”
- “She’ll apologize for that — yeah, when pigs fly.”
The Devil Is an Ass
This phrase is older and less common in modern usage but has roots in historical literature, particularly in Shakespearean times. Calling the devil “an ass” refers to the devil being foolish, stubborn, or laughably wrong.
The word “ass” here is used as a metaphor for stupidity or foolishness, as donkeys (asses) have traditionally been seen as stubborn and not very smart animals.
Putting it together, calling the devil “an ass” can mean the devil’s behavior or tricks are silly or doomed to fail.
The Origins Of The Phrase
To understand the full context, let’s explore where this phrase might have come from.
- The “pigs fly” idiom dates back to at least the 17th century, appearing in various humorous writings and folk sayings to describe impossible things.
- The phrase “the devil is an ass” is famously used in Shakespeare’s play “The Devil Is an Ass” (published in 1616). In this comedy, the devil is depicted as a foolish character, making the phrase popular in English literature.
- Combining these two elements is likely a later creative twist, blending two idioms to emphasize impossibility and folly together.
So, while the phrase “the devil is an ass when pigs fly” may not have a precise historical origin, it’s a playful fusion of two well-established expressions from English folklore and literature.
How To Use This Phrase Today
Since the phrase is a bit old-fashioned and quirky, you won’t hear it every day in casual conversation, but it can still be a fun and creative way to express disbelief or skepticism.
Examples of use:
- Friend 1: “Do you think the boss will give us a day off next week?”
Friend 2: “Ha! The devil is an ass when pigs fly.” - Parent: “I promise I’ll never lose my keys again.”
Teen: “Yeah, the devil is an ass when pigs fly.”
Using it in this way can add a humorous or literary flair to your speech or writing.
Why Do People Use Such Odd Expressions?
Idioms and phrases like this one add color to language. They help convey emotions and attitudes in a compact and memorable way. Saying “the devil is an ass when pigs fly” carries a stronger punch than simply saying “that won’t happen.”
Moreover, these phrases connect us to cultural history, folklore, and literature. Using them keeps the language rich and engaging.
Variations And Similar Expressions
You might find similar phrases or idioms that share the same meaning:
- When hell freezes over — also meaning something will never happen.
- Not in a million years — emphasizing impossibility.
- Once pigs fly — the more common, simpler version without the devil part.
Each variation has its own nuance and flavor but serves the same general purpose: to say something is highly unlikely or impossible.
The Deeper Meaning: What Does This Tell Us About Language?
This phrase reflects a few interesting things about how humans communicate:
Creativity: Combining vivid images (devils, asses, flying pigs) creates memorable and imaginative expressions.
Cultural Storytelling: These idioms carry stories and beliefs that span centuries.
Humor and Sarcasm: The phrase uses exaggeration and humor to make a point more engaging.
Shared Understanding: Idioms rely on shared cultural knowledge to be understood, making them a bonding tool in language communities.
Conclusion
Language is a living, breathing art form, full of curious and creative expressions like the devil is an ass when pigs fly. Understanding these phrases gives us a window into history, humor, and human nature.
Whether you use this phrase to add color to your speech or just enjoy knowing where it comes from, now you’re equipped with the knowledge to appreciate this quirky piece of English heritage.
Remember: some things are truly impossible — or at least as unlikely as the devil turning foolish while pigs soar through the sky!
ALSO READ: How Ezaction777 Makes Your Online Adventure Easier
FAQs
What is the meaning of The devil is an ass when pigs fly?
It means that something is impossible or extremely unlikely to happen, combining the idea of the devil being foolish and pigs flying, which is an impossible event.
Where does the phrase come from?
It’s a combination of two older idioms: “when pigs fly,” meaning impossible, and “the devil is an ass,” a phrase popularized by Shakespeare referring to the devil’s foolishness.
Can I use this phrase in everyday conversation?
Yes, but it’s a bit old-fashioned and literary, so it might be best suited for informal, playful contexts or to add humor.
Are there similar idioms to express impossibility?
Yes, phrases like “when hell freezes over” or “not in a million years” also express something that is unlikely or impossible.
Why do people use idioms like this?
Idioms add creativity, humor, and cultural richness to language, helping people communicate emotions and ideas in memorable ways.
