# wrestle with a pig

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/wrestle-with-a-pig
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To engage in a struggle with an opponent that benefits from the struggle even without winning it.

## Examples

- Do not wrestle with a pig, because you will only get dirty.
- Arguing with that rude customer is like wrestling with a pig; he enjoys the chaos while you just lose your patience.
- He realized that engaging in a public debate with his dishonest rival was akin to wrestling with a pig, as the conflict only served to damage his own reputation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.