All Ears English Podcast AEE 2112: When Can You Say 'When Pigs Fly?'
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Dec 13, 2023 The hosts dive into the idiom 'when pigs fly,' highlighting its significance in everyday language. They explore the nuances of using idioms in formal versus informal settings, especially within professional environments. Comedy is discussed through the lens of a recent performance, emphasizing the clever use of language. A special focus on learning idioms in context reveals the value of conversational practice over rote memorization. They also compare it to the expression 'don't hold your breath,' underscoring the importance of tone in communication.
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Trevor Noah on Textbooks
- Aubrey went to a Trevor Noah comedy show and was inspired by a joke about textbooks.
- Noah joked that no one reads textbooks, highlighting their irrelevance to real-world learning.
Formal vs. Informal Language
- Avoid mixing formal and informal vocabulary, especially idioms like "when pigs fly," in professional communication.
- Such inconsistency can break connection and appear disrespectful, especially in official notices.
Using "When Pigs Fly"
- "When pigs fly" means never and is used to express negativity or frustration.
- It is best used as a response to a question and is not suitable for positive contexts.