Learning English idioms with video lessons by BBC Learning English video lessons. In this English video lesson, we are going to learn English idioms related to pigs.
Key points
- pigs might fly – something will never happen (US: when pigs fly)
- a pigsty – a very dirty, untidy place
- make a pig’s ear of something – do something badly (British)
In this episode, The Teacher introduces you to three idiomatic phrases connected with pigs.
1. Pigs might fly
2. This place is a pigsty
3. To make a pig’s ear of something
English subtitle of the lesson:
Meanings and examples
| Idiom | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| pigs might fly | that will never happen (US: when pigs fly) | “He’ll be on time tomorrow.” – “Yes, and pigs might fly!” |
| a pigsty | a very dirty, untidy place | Your room is a pigsty! |
| make a pig’s ear of something | do something badly (British) | I made a pig’s ear of painting the wall. |
In the video, the BBC Learning English “Teacher” acts out each idiom in a funny scene – watch it to hear the pronunciation and see the idioms used in context.
Frequently asked questions
What is the American version of “pigs might fly”?
“When pigs fly”: “He’ll clean his room when pigs fly!”
How do I use “pigsty”?
To describe a messy room or house: “Your bedroom is a pigsty!”
Learning English Idioms video lessons:
