Up in the Air — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

When a situation is up in the air, no one knows what will happen — plans haven’t been confirmed and things could still go in any direction.

People use this when they’re waiting for information, a decision, or an event to settle things.

Use it when…

When plans haven’t been confirmed and could still change.
When a decision is being delayed and the outcome is still unknown.
When someone asks about a situation that hasn’t been resolved yet.

Don’t confuse with...

"On the Fence"

—

Personally undecided between two options

"In Limbo"

—

Stuck waiting with no movement or resolution possible

"Up in the Air"

—

A situation with no confirmed plan or outcome yet

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Up in the Air" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Meetings

The product launch date is still up in the air — the team hasn’t finalized the timeline.

Relationships & Social Life

Romantic Partners

Their summer travel plans were up in the air because neither of them had booked time off work.

Media & Everyday Life

News

The future of the merger remains up in the air as regulators continue their review.

‹›

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Up in the Air" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Raising Concerns

You

The timeline for the new feature is still up in the air — can we get a decision this week?

Boss

Fair point. Let’s get everyone aligned by Friday.

Relationships

Honest Conversations

Partner

Are we still going to your parents for the holidays?

You

It’s up in the air. I haven’t heard back from my mom yet.

Everyday Conversations

Describing Events

Friend

Are you moving to the new apartment?

You

Still up in the air. I’m waiting to hear if I got the job first.

‹›

Last updated:

April 20, 2026

Become an Insider

Get exclusive invitations to try our new English online courses FOR FREE.

Enjoy special discounts and unique offers for club members only!

Become an Insider

Tell us a bit about you to unlock more relevant content and insider perks.

Where do you want to improve your English?*

Helps us tailor content to you.

Select an option

Where are you based? (optional)

Select country

What's your native language? (optional)

Select language

First Name (optional)

I consent to theidiomdaily.com collecting and storing my data for the purpose of sending newsletters, updates, and promotional content. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time by using the link provided in the emails. By checking this box, I agree to the Privacy Policy.

You’re in! Welcome to
the Insider Club.

Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again.

Unsubscribe
anytime.

Trusted by

1.5M+

English learners &
teachers worldwide