English Idiom – Up in the air.
Meaning – Uncertain or undecided. This expression can refer to a situation or a plan that has not yet been finalised or that is still being discussed, and where it is unclear what the outcome will be. It can also be used to describe a feeling of being uncertain or unsure about something.
Related Idioms:
- Choppy waters (idiom) – This expression refers to troublesome, difficult or uncertain times.
- Cold feet (idiom) – A fear of doing something.
- Play it by ear (idiom) – To decide what to do as a situation develops.
- Rain check (idiom) – To politely refuse an offer or invitation, on the implication that you may accept it some time in the future.
- Throw a spanner in the works (idiom) – To do something that prevents an activity or plan from happening or being successful.
Usage:
When could you use this idiom?
- You are unable to finalise your plan for something.
- You want to arrange a meeting at work, but you cannot until somebody gives you some information.
- A friend is struggling to organise a night out.
- You are expecting to go out with your family, but you do not know where or when you are going!
Example:
- “I’m supposed to be going out with Dave tonight but he’s up to his neck in work. My plans are up in the air!”
In The News:
Southwest Airlines’ plans for Hawaii flights up in the air
Discuss:
- Is there an idiom like this in your country?
What is an idiom?
An idiom is a word or phrase that is not taken literally. An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its individual words, but has a separate meaning of its own.
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