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Region: US | Usage example: Not in a million years would I agree to that.

Not in a million years

Meaning

Absolutely never.

Usage

Used for strong refusals.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Explains impossibility by referencing an enormous time span.

Popularized in American speech after WWII.

Related Idioms

Feel like a million dollars

Feel extremely well.

One in a million

Exceptionally rare or special.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.