Up in the Air – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever asked someone about their weekend plans—and they say, “I’m not sure yet”? Or waited for news about a job, a trip, or an event that hasn’t been confirmed? In English, we say those plans are up in the air! This relaxed idiom describes anything that’s uncertain, undecided, or still being figured out.
What Does “Up in the Air” Mean?
“Up in the air” means something is not yet decided or confirmed—like a balloon floating without direction. Think of it as a plan or decision that hasn’t landed yet. The phrase isn’t literal; it’s a simple, visual way to say, “We don’t know for sure yet.”
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or neutral conversations with friends, family, or coworkers when talking about travel plans, work decisions, events, or any situation that’s still uncertain. It’s perfect for responding to “What’s happening with…?” questions. This idiom is informal but widely understood—great for everyday chats, not formal reports.
Example Sentences
- Our vacation plans are still up in the air—we’re waiting for flight prices to drop.
- Don’t book the venue yet; the guest list is still up in the air.
- His job offer is up in the air because they haven’t finalized the budget.
- Everything’s up in the air right now, but I’ll let you know as soon as I decide.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Are you coming to the reunion next month?”
Jamie: “It’s still up in the air. I haven’t heard back from my boss about time off.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use this phrase for things that are clearly decided or fixed. It only applies when there’s genuine uncertainty—not when you’re just being vague.
❌ Don’t say: “My flight leaves at 3 p.m.—it’s up in the air.” (It’s confirmed!)
✅ Do say: “I haven’t booked my flight yet—it’s still up in the air.”
Practice Tip
Next time someone asks about your plans and you’re unsure, say: “It’s still up in the air.” It’s a natural, honest way to express uncertainty in English.
Final Note
Now you can use “up in the air” to talk about uncertain plans like a confident English speaker! It’s a calm, everyday phrase that helps you be honest without over-explaining. Keep using it—and remember, it’s okay for some things to float for a while before they land.