idiom

play it by ear

3Sections

To decide what to do as the situation develops, rather than making detailed plans

Definition

To decide what to do as the situation develops, rather than making detailed plans

Examples

  • I don't know if we'll go out - let's just PLAY IT BY EAR
  • We haven't made definite plans - we're PLAYING IT BY EAR
  • I'll PLAY IT BY EAR and see how I feel tomorrow

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms:

  • improvise
  • decide as you go
  • wing it

Antonyms:

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