up in the air
Meaning
Uncertain, undecided, or not yet settled; the outcome or plan is still unknown.
Origin
From the idea of something literally suspended in the air—hanging without support—used figuratively for plans or outcomes that are not fixed or settled.
Notes
Common, informal-to-neutral. Usually a factual, neutral way to say plans or outcomes aren’t decided yet, implying a lack of clarity/confirmation rather than criticism.
Examples
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Our vacation plans are still up in the air because we haven’t picked dates yet.
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The merger is up in the air while the lawyers review the final terms.
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With the storm coming, whether the concert happens tonight is up in the air.
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After the budget cuts, my role at the company is up in the air.
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The decision about where to live next year is up in the air until she gets her job offer.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used predicatively with “be” (e.g., “Plans are up in the air”). Can modify nouns (“an up-in-the-air decision”); hyphenate before a noun. Tense varies via “be.”
Synonyms
- uncertain
- undecided
- unresolved
- up for grabs
- in doubt
Antonyms
- settled
- decided
- confirmed
- certain
- finalized