Pluck something out of the air

usgb
verb

To come up with an idea or answer by guessing or without careful thought.

When he was asked for the budget estimate, he just plucked a figure out of the air.
Visual representation of "pluck something out of the air" - To come up with an idea or answer by guessing or without careful thought

Often appears as...

  • pluck a figure out of the air
  • pluck a name out of the air

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pluck something out of the air"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Guesswork Implication

The phrase suggests the speaker is guessing and is unsure about the exact details.

Illustration for Guesswork Implication
He plucked an excuse out of the air to avoid going to the party.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Spontaneity

Use it when someone makes a spontaneous or sudden decision without much thought.

Illustration for Spontaneity
She plucked a destination out of the air for her random weekend getaway.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Lack of Evidence

It implies that there isn't substantial evidence or reasoning supporting the statement.

Illustration for Lack of Evidence
The accused plucked an alibi out of the air, which didn't hold up in court.
Visual representation of the word "Pluck something out of the air"

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