Idioms for “Never Going to Happen”: A Comprehensive Guide
Idioms enrich the English language, adding color and depth to our communication. Understanding idioms is crucial for both native speakers and English language learners.
This article focuses on idioms that express the idea of something being impossible or highly improbable. Mastering these idioms will enhance your comprehension of spoken and written English, allowing you to express yourself more vividly and accurately.
This guide is designed for learners of all levels, from beginners seeking to expand their vocabulary to advanced speakers aiming to refine their idiomatic expression.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of Idioms for “Never Going to Happen”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of Idioms for “Never Going to Happen”
Idioms are expressions whose meanings cannot be understood from the literal meanings of the individual words. They are a type of figurative language where the overall meaning is different from the combined literal meanings of its elements.
Idioms for “never going to happen” are phrases that convey the idea that something is impossible, highly improbable, or unrealistic. They often add humor, emphasis, or a cultural nuance to the expression of impossibility.
These idioms are used to dismiss an idea, a plan, or a prediction as something that has no chance of success or realization.
These idioms function as adverbs or adverbial phrases, modifying the verb and indicating the unlikelihood or impossibility of the action described. They are classified as fixed expressions, meaning their form is generally consistent and should not be altered.
Understanding the context in which these idioms are used is crucial, as misinterpreting them can lead to communication errors.
Structural Breakdown
The structure of idioms for “never going to happen” varies, but they generally consist of a combination of words that, when taken literally, have a different meaning. They often involve metaphors, similes, and hyperbole to emphasize the impossibility.
Some idioms are short and concise, while others are longer and more descriptive. The key is that the entire phrase, rather than the individual words, carries the meaning of impossibility.
Many of these idioms follow a pattern of conditional clauses or comparisons. For instance, “When pigs fly” implies that something will only happen under an impossible condition.
Similarly, “Not in a million years” uses hyperbole to express extreme improbability. Recognizing these structural patterns can aid in understanding and remembering these idioms.
Types and Categories
Idioms for “never going to happen” can be categorized based on the imagery or concepts they employ. Here are some common categories:
Animal-Based Idioms
These idioms use animals to symbolize impossibility. Animals are often associated with specific characteristics or behaviors, and these idioms leverage these associations to express the idea that something is unrealistic.
For example, pigs are not known to fly, hence the idiom “When pigs fly” signifies something that will never occur.
Celestial-Based Idioms
These idioms use celestial bodies or events to express impossibility. They often involve impossible astronomical phenomena or scenarios.
The vastness and perceived permanence of the celestial realm make these idioms particularly effective in conveying the idea that something is highly unlikely.
Physical Impossibility Idioms
These idioms describe scenarios that are physically impossible, highlighting the unrealistic nature of a situation. They often involve breaking the laws of physics or defying common sense.
These idioms are direct and easily understood, as they rely on universally recognized impossibilities.
Conditional Idioms
These idioms use conditional clauses to express impossibility. They often set up a hypothetical situation that is highly unlikely or impossible, implying that the desired outcome will never occur.
These idioms emphasize the dependence of the outcome on an impossible condition.
Examples
Understanding idioms requires seeing them in context. The following tables provide examples of idioms for “never going to happen” categorized by type.
Animal-Based Idiom Examples
The following table provides examples of animal-based idioms that signify something will never occur. Each example is followed by a sentence that illustrates the idiom’s usage in context.
| Idiom | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| When pigs fly | He’ll clean his room when pigs fly. |
| A snowball’s chance in hell | He doesn’t have a snowball’s chance in hell of winning the election. |
| When hell freezes over | She’ll apologize when hell freezes over. |
| Not if hell freezes over | I will not go out with him, not if hell freezes over. |
| When fish grow legs | They’ll agree on that issue when fish grow legs. |
| When cows come home | You can wait for him to finish, but that’ll be when cows come home. |
| A cat in hell’s chance | He has a cat in hell’s chance of passing the exam without studying. |
| When turkeys fly | He’ll admit he’s wrong when turkeys fly. |
| As likely as finding rocking horse manure | Finding that document is as likely as finding rocking horse manure. |
| When chickens have teeth | She’ll admit she was wrong when chickens have teeth. |
| When sheep knit sweaters | He’ll start exercising when sheep knit sweaters. |
| When pigs have wings | They’ll pay me back when pigs have wings. |
| When dogs meow | She’ll start liking him when dogs meow. |
| When donkeys fly | He will be on time when donkeys fly. |
| When cats bark | She will tell the truth when cats bark. |
| When snakes wear shoes | I’ll believe it when snakes wear shoes. |
| When birds swim | He will apologize when birds swim. |
| When elephants dance | She will agree with you when elephants dance. |
| When squirrels hibernate in summer | He’ll be happy about the decision when squirrels hibernate in summer. |
| When spiders sing | They’ll understand each other when spiders sing. |
| When wolves wear hats | She will listen to reason when wolves wear hats. |
| When bears fly kites | He’ll take responsibility when bears fly kites. |
| When ducks climb trees | She will be on time when ducks climb trees. |
| When ants build skyscrapers | They will finish the project on time when ants build skyscrapers. |
| When snails run marathons | He will win the race when snails run marathons. |
Celestial-Based Idiom Examples
The following table provides examples of celestial-based idioms that signify something will never occur. Each example is followed by a sentence that illustrates the idiom’s usage in context.
| Idiom | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Not in a million years | Not in a million years would I ever do that. |
| Once in a blue moon | She only visits us once in a blue moon. |
| When the moon turns to cheese | He’ll be honest when the moon turns to cheese. |
| When the stars align | They’ll agree when the stars align. |
| When the sun rises in the west | He will admit he’s wrong when the sun rises in the west. |
| When Mars collides with Earth | She will forgive him when Mars collides with Earth. |
| When the planets reverse their orbits | He will start being punctual when the planets reverse their orbits. |
| When the comets stop coming | She’ll retire when the comets stop coming. |
| When the universe shrinks | They will understand each other when the universe shrinks. |
| When the galaxies dance | He’ll be happy when the galaxies dance. |
| When the moon is made of green cheese | He’ll give up smoking when the moon is made of green cheese. |
| When Jupiter cries | She will listen when Jupiter cries. |
| When Neptune smiles | They will agree when Neptune smiles. |
| When Saturn sings | He will be there for you when Saturn sings. |
| When Uranus laughs | She will call him when Uranus laughs. |
| When Mercury sleeps | He’ll understand when Mercury sleeps. |
| When Venus blinks | She will trust him when Venus blinks. |
| When the asteroids unite | They will reconcile when the asteroids unite. |
| When the constellations crumble | He will apologize when the constellations crumble. |
| When the sky falls | She will change her mind when the sky falls. |
Physical Impossibility Idiom Examples
The following table provides examples of physical impossibility idioms that signify something will never occur. Each example is followed by a sentence that illustrates the idiom’s usage in context.
| Idiom | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| When water runs uphill | He’ll admit he’s wrong when water runs uphill. |
| When rocks start to float | She will believe you when rocks start to float. |
| When mountains move | They will change their minds when mountains move. |
| When the dead come back to life | He will pay me back when the dead come back to life. |
| When ice burns | She will agree when ice burns. |
| When stones bleed | He will show emotion when stones bleed. |
| When fire freezes | She will be happy when fire freezes. |
| When the Earth stands still | He will stop working when the Earth stands still. |
| When rivers flow backwards | They will agree when rivers flow backwards. |
| When gravity reverses | He will be on time when gravity reverses. |
| When the seas turn to lemonade | She will stop complaining when the seas turn to lemonade. |
| When trees walk | He will understand when trees walk. |
| When sand turns to gold | She will be rich when sand turns to gold. |
| When the wind stops blowing | He will be quiet when the wind stops blowing. |
| When the sun turns cold | She will be kind when the sun turns cold. |
| When shadows have substance | He will see the truth when shadows have substance. |
| When echoes become voices | She will listen when echoes become voices. |
| When dreams turn to reality | He will be satisfied when dreams turn to reality. |
| When illusions become tangible | She will believe it when illusions become tangible. |
| When fantasies materialize | He will stop hoping when fantasies materialize. |
Conditional Idiom Examples
The following table provides examples of conditional idioms that signify something will never occur. Each example is followed by a sentence that illustrates the idiom’s usage in context.
| Idiom | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| If wishes were horses, beggars would ride | If wishes were horses, beggars would ride, but wishing won’t make it happen. |
| Dream on | You think you’ll win the lottery? Dream on! |
| Over my dead body | You want to borrow my car? Over my dead body! |
| Not a chance in the world | Do you think he’ll apologize? Not a chance in the world. |
| In your dreams | You think she likes you? In your dreams! |
| When I’m six feet under | I’ll agree to that when I’m six feet under. |
| If two and two made five | I would believe him if two and two made five. |
| If hell had central heating | That would happen if hell had central heating. |
| If the sky was always blue | He would be happy if the sky was always blue. |
| If money grew on trees | We would be rich if money grew on trees. |
| If wishes could come true | She would be happy if wishes could come true. |
| If thoughts could materialize | He would be powerful if thoughts could materialize. |
| If words could build castles | She would be a queen if words could build castles. |
| If tears could reverse time | He would undo his mistakes if tears could reverse time. |
| If silence could speak volumes | She would be understood if silence could speak volumes. |
| If laughter could cure all ills | He would be healthy if laughter could cure all ills. |
| If smiles could mend hearts | She would be loved if smiles could mend hearts. |
| If whispers could shake mountains | He would be influential if whispers could shake mountains. |
| If glances could stop wars | She would be a peacemaker if glances could stop wars. |
| If dreams could change reality | He would be content if dreams could change reality. |
Usage Rules
Using idioms correctly requires understanding their nuances and context. Here are some general rules to follow:
- Use idioms in appropriate contexts: Consider the formality of the situation. Idioms are generally more suitable for informal conversations and writing.
- Do not alter idioms: Idioms are fixed expressions, and changing the words can alter their meaning or make them nonsensical.
- Understand the cultural context: Some idioms are specific to certain cultures or regions. Ensure that your audience will understand the idiom you are using.
- Be mindful of your audience: Avoid using idioms that may be offensive or insensitive to certain groups.
- Practice using idioms: The best way to learn idioms is to use them in your own speech and writing.
Common Mistakes
Learners often make mistakes when using idioms. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| When cows fly | When pigs fly | The correct animal is “pigs,” not “cows.” |
| Not in a million year | Not in a million years | The plural form “years” is required. |
| Snowball’s chance in heaven | Snowball’s chance in hell | The correct location is “hell,” not “heaven.” |
| Once at a blue moon | Once in a blue moon | The correct preposition is “in,” not “at.” |
| Over my death body | Over my dead body | The correct adjective is “dead,” not “death.” |
| A cat in haven’s chance | A cat in hell’s chance | The correct location is “hell,” not “heaven.” |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of idioms for “never going to happen” with the following exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct idiom from the list below:
Idiom List: When pigs fly, a snowball’s chance in hell, when hell freezes over, not in a million years, once in a blue moon
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. He’ll clean his room _____. | When pigs fly |
| 2. She visits us _____. | Once in a blue moon |
| 3. He doesn’t have _____ of winning the election. | A snowball’s chance in hell |
| 4. I would never do that, _____. | Not in a million years |
| 5. She’ll apologize _____. | When hell freezes over |
| 6. He’ll admit he was wrong _____. | When pigs fly |
| 7. They get along _____. | Once in a blue moon |
| 8. She’ll agree to that _____. | When hell freezes over |
| 9. He has _____ of getting the job. | A snowball’s chance in hell |
| 10. I will never forgive him, _____. | Not in a million years |
Exercise 2: Sentence Completion
Complete the following sentences using an appropriate idiom for “never going to happen.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. He’ll start exercising _____. | When pigs fly. |
| 2. She’ll agree with you _____. | When the moon turns to cheese. |
| 3. I’ll get a promotion _____. | Not in a million years. |
| 4. They’ll pay me back _____. | When hell freezes over. |
| 5. He’ll tell the truth _____. | When the stars align. |
| 6. She’ll be on time _____. | When pigs fly. |
| 7. I’ll believe it _____. | When water runs uphill. |
| 8. He’ll apologize _____. | When ice burns. |
| 9. She’ll be happy _____. | When mountains move. |
| 10. They’ll understand each other _____. | When the dead come back to life. |
Exercise 3: Rewrite the Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences using an idiom for “never going to happen.”
| Original Sentence | Rewritten Sentence |
|---|---|
| It is extremely unlikely that he will win the race. | He has a snowball’s chance in hell of winning the race. |
| She will never agree to that proposal. | She’ll agree to that when hell freezes over. |
| He will absolutely not clean his room. | He’ll clean his room when pigs fly. |
| I would never, ever do that. | Not in a million years would I ever do that. |
| They rarely visit us. | They visit us once in a blue moon. |
| It’s impossible for her to be on time. | She’ll be on time when pigs fly. |
| He will never admit that he was wrong. | He’ll admit he was wrong when hell freezes over. |
| It’s highly improbable that they will agree. | They’ll agree when the stars align. |
| She will never believe you. | She’ll believe you when water runs uphill. |
| He will definitely not apologize. | He’ll apologize when the moon turns to cheese. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider exploring the origins and cultural contexts of these idioms. Research how similar concepts are expressed in other languages.
Analyzing the figurative language used in these idioms can provide deeper insights into their meaning and impact. Additionally, consider the subtle differences in meaning and usage between seemingly similar idioms.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about idioms for “never going to happen”:
- What is an idiom?
An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be understood from the ordinary meanings of the individual words. It is a figurative expression where the overall meaning is different from the literal meanings of its elements.
- Why is it important to learn idioms?
Learning idioms enhances your understanding of spoken and written English, allows you to express yourself more vividly and accurately, and helps you communicate more effectively with native speakers.
- Can I change the words in an idiom?
No, idioms are fixed expressions and should not be altered. Changing the words can alter their meaning or make them nonsensical.
- Are idioms used in formal writing?
Idioms are generally more suitable for informal conversations and writing. In formal writing, it is best to use more direct and literal language.
- How can I learn idioms effectively?
The best way to learn idioms is to read widely, listen to native speakers, and practice using idioms in your own speech and writing. Pay attention to the context in which idioms are used and try to understand their nuances.
- What does “When pigs fly” mean?
“When pigs fly” is an idiom that means something will never happen. It is used to express disbelief or skepticism about a particular event or outcome.
- What is the origin of the idiom “Once in a blue moon”?
The idiom “Once in a blue moon” refers to the rare occurrence of a second full moon within a single calendar month. This astronomical phenomenon is relatively infrequent, hence the idiom signifies something that happens very rarely.
- Are there similar idioms in other languages?
Yes, many languages have idioms that express the concept of impossibility. However, the specific imagery and expressions may vary. Exploring these cross-linguistic similarities and differences can be a fascinating way to deepen your understanding of language and culture.
Conclusion
Mastering idioms for “never going to happen” can significantly enhance your English language skills. By understanding the definitions, structural patterns, and usage rules of these idioms, you can communicate more effectively and expressively.
Remember to practice using these idioms in context and be mindful of your audience. With consistent effort, you’ll be able to confidently incorporate these colorful expressions into your everyday conversations and writing.
Continue to expand your vocabulary and explore the nuances of the English language. The more you learn, the more confident and fluent you will become.
Embrace the challenge and enjoy the journey of language learning!
