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until hell freezes over
01
used to refer to a span of time that has no fixed or specific duration, making it uncertain when it will end
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "until hell freezes over" and when to use it?
The phrase "until hell freezes over" is an idiom that is used to signify a time frame without a defined or known endpoint, making its duration unpredictable or without a set limit. The origin of this expression likely stems from the perception that hell, being a place of extreme heat and torment, would never experience freezing temperatures.
Examples
The possibility of her forgiving her ex-husband is about as remote as until hell freezes over.
Getting the notoriously frugal boss to increase the budget is as improbable as until hell freezes over.
