Welcome back to the Proper British Expressions Podcast! Today, we’re exploring a phrase that Brits use a lot: “play it by ear.” It’s a handy one to know and can make you sound more like a native speaker. Let’s dive in!
Meaning:
“Play it by ear” means handling things without a strict plan. Instead, you’re open to adjusting as you go along, being flexible and adaptable.
Origin:
This phrase comes from music. It’s like when musicians jam together without sheet music, just playing what feels right in the moment. So, you’re kind of doing the same thing—figuring things out as you go.
Usage:
Brits use this expression in all sorts of situations, from casual chats to more formal settings. It’s great for talking about future plans when you’re not set on anything specific yet.
Pronunciation:
To say it right, stress the words”play” and “ear”. We also use some linking between the words so it sounds more like “pla-yit-bi-year”
Examples:
- “We don’t have a plan for the trip. Let’s just play it by ear and see where we end up.”
- “The meeting schedule isn’t fixed, so we’ll play it by ear depending on everyone’s availability.”
- “I don’t know what I’ll do this weekend. I’ll just play it by ear and see how it goes.”
You can also get my FREE British slang guide on the link below!
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