The phrase “play it by ear” means to decide how to deal with a situation as it develops rather than planning in advance. It’s similar to saying “make it up as you go” or “adjust to the situation”. This phrase is often used when there is uncertainty about future events or plans.
Here are two examples in sentences:
Example 1:
Our weekend plans are not set in stone, we’ll just play it by ear and see what the weather is like.
Example 2:
Susan doesn’t have a specific itinerary for her trip, she prefers to play it by ear and decide on her activities day by day.
Here are two examples in conversation:
Example 3:
Tom: What time do you want to start our project meeting tomorrow?
Amy: Let’s play it by ear, we can decide based on when everyone finishes their work today.
Example 4:
Bob: Have you decided on the details for your birthday party?
Sara: Not yet, I think I’ll play it by ear. It depends on who can make it that day.
So, when someone says “play it by ear”, they are implying that they will decide their actions based on the circumstances and conditions at the time, rather than planning in detail in advance. It’s a relaxed and adaptable approach to planning.
