Play it by ear

usgb
verb

To decide or act according to the situation and not following a plan.

We don't have a plan for the trip, we will play it by ear.
Visual representation of "play it by ear" - To decide or act according to the situation and not following a plan

Often appears as...

  • let's play it by ear
  • i'll play it by ear

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "play it by ear"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Flexibility Required

Use when outcomes are uncertain or when you want to show willingness to adjust to situations.

Illustration for Flexibility Required
The weather might change our plans, so let's play it by ear.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Setting

Best used in casual conversations rather than in formal or professional scenarios.

Illustration for Informal Setting
It's just a casual meet-up, we'll play it by ear.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Planless

Doesn't mean there's no plan at all, just that the plan is flexible.

Illustration for Not Planless
We have a few ideas for our holiday, but mostly we're playing it by ear.
Visual representation of the word "Play it by ear"

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