happy as a pig in shit

The idiom "happy as a pig in mud" is a related phrase that carries a similar connotation to "happy as a pig in shit." Both idioms depict a state of extreme happiness or contentment. While "happy as a pig in shit" emphasizes the pig's joy in a less-than-desirable environment, "happy as a pig in mud" focuses on the pig's satisfaction from wallowing in mud. The addition of mud as the context in this idiom adds a layer of playfulness and imagery to the expression. Just like the original idiom, "happy as a pig in mud" is informal and colloquial, making it more suitable for casual conversations rather than formal language.

"Sick as a parrot" is another related idiom that is used to convey the opposite emotion of extreme happiness. While "happy as a pig in shit" and "happy as a pig in mud" express joy and contentment, "sick as a parrot" conveys disappointment, frustration, or sadness. This idiom originates from the world of sports and is often associated with a person or team losing a game or missing out on an opportunity. The comparison to a parrot emphasizes the feeling of being unwell, unhappy, or disheartened. Like the other idioms discussed, "sick as a parrot" is commonly used in casual conversations and has become widely recognized and understood.