Put lipstick on a pig
/pʊt ˈlɪpstɪk ɒn ə pɪɡ/informalUS · UK
What does “Put lipstick on a pig” mean?
Put lipstick on a pig means to hide serious faults with surface improvements
New packaging will not fix a product that keeps breaking. Calling it lipstick on a pig says the effort misses the underlying problem.
Aim the criticism at a plan, product or policy, not someone’s looks. The pig comparison can be especially insulting when directed at a person.
When do people say it?
Use it to criticise a change that improves appearances but leaves the real problem untouched. It is blunt and dismissive.
“Repainting the leaking boat is just putting lipstick on a pig.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in US and UK.
Where does it come from?
Lipstick changes the pig’s appearance without changing what it is. The image mocks an attempt to make something poor look better.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Put lipstick on a pig” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-10-01