Expressions for Describing Improbability in English
Idiomatic expressions are phrases that convey figurative meanings different from their literal interpretations. They can make your conversations sound more natural and fluent. In this post, we’ll explore some common idiomatic expressions in English that express the idea of something being very unlikely to happen, along with their meanings and examples.
1. Like Searching for a Needle in a Haystack
Meaning: This expression describes a situation that is very difficult or almost impossible to achieve.
Example: Finding my lost earring in this crowded room is like searching for a needle in a haystack.
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| haystack |
2. As Likely as Snow in July
Meaning: This phrase indicates that something is very unlikely to happen.
Example: She will attend the meeting as likely as snow in July.
3. A Long Shot
Meaning: This expression refers to a risky attempt that has a low probability of success.
Example: Winning the championship is a long shot for our team this year, but we’ll give it our best.
4. When Pigs Fly
Meaning: This idiom signifies that something is impossible or will never happen. It is particularly popular in casual conversation, often used humorously to emphasize disbelief about a situation.
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| pigs are flying? |
Example: I’ll believe he’ll start exercising when pigs fly.
5. A Drop in the Ocean
Meaning: This phrase describes something that is a small part of a much larger issue, often making it seem insignificant.
Example: The amount we collected for charity is just a drop in the ocean compared to what we need.
6. A Camel Going Through the Eye of a Needle
Meaning: This expression refers to an extremely difficult or impossible task. It highlights the unlikelihood of a particular outcome.
Example: Getting him to change his mind is like a camel going through the eye of a needle.
Conclusion
Using idiomatic expressions can greatly enhance your English conversation skills. Among these expressions, "when pigs fly" is particularly popular in everyday conversation, often used to express skepticism or humor. By incorporating these phrases into your daily speaking and writing, you can sound more like a native speaker. Remember, practice makes perfect!
