Building a strong vocabulary with idioms is essential for achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test. One commonly used idiom in both academic and conversational English is “up in the air.” Mastering this idiom not only shows a broad vocabulary but also demonstrates your ability to use English fluently and naturally, like a native speaker. In this article, IDP will walk you through the meaning, origin, usage, and practical applications of “up in the air” in different parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
1. What Does “Up in the Air” Mean?
The idiom “up in the air” means undecided, uncertain, or unresolved. It describes a situation where:
Something is still under discussion or consideration
A decision hasn’t been made yet
Many aspects are unclear
Plans may change or be cancelled
Examples:
We’re hoping to move next month, but it’s all still up in the air.
My travel plans are up in the air because I haven’t booked my flights yet.
2. Origin of the Idiom “Up in the Air”
The idiom dates back to the 18th century, originally used in a literal sense to describe something physically suspended in the air. Over time, it evolved into a metaphor for uncertainty.
The metaphor comes from the image of something floating in the air without a stable foundation—similar to an unresolved situation or pending decision. It was first recorded in literature in the 1700s and became widely used by the 19th century.
3. How to Use “Up in the Air” in Different Contexts
In Everyday Conversation
Sorry, I can’t confirm dinner on Friday. My schedule is still up in the air.
We’re thinking about Thailand or Singapore for our vacation, but it’s still up in the air.
We might move to a bigger house, but it’s all up in the air until we get the mortgage approved.
In the Workplace
The contract negotiations are still up in the air, so we can't announce anything yet.
All potential promotions are up in the air after the merger.
In Education or Academic Context
My research topic is still up in the air while I wait for my supervisor's feedback.
The presentation date is up in the air because two teammates have scheduling conflicts.
4. Using “Up in the Air” in the IELTS Speaking Test
IELTS Speaking Part 1
These questions are usually about daily life, studies, family, or work. Using an idiom appropriately can help you stand out.
Question: Do you have any plans for your future career?
Answer: My long-term career path is still a little up in the air. I’m exploring a few different options, so I haven’t made a final decision yet.
Question: What are your plans for your next holiday?
Answer: Honestly, my holiday plans are still a bit up in the air. We’re debating whether to go to the beach or visit relatives in the countryside.
IELTS Speaking Part 2
This part requires you to speak for 1–2 minutes on a given topic. You can use “up in the air” to describe uncertainty in your narrative.
Cue card: Describe a future plan that you have.
Answer: I’d like to talk about my plan to study abroad for my Master’s degree. I’ve chosen the field, but the specific country and university are still up in the air. I’m currently comparing Canada and Australia, considering factors like tuition, living expenses, and visa rules. So, yes, things are still up in the air.
IELTS Speaking Part 3
Here, the questions are more abstract and require you to explain ideas in depth. This idiom fits well in topics like future trends, society, or economics.
Question: How do you think technology will change society in the future?
Answer: That’s a profound question. While technology is advancing rapidly, many of its future effects are still up in the air. For instance, it’s unclear whether AI will create more jobs or lead to mass unemployment. These are big questions we still don’t have answers to.
5. Synonyms and Related Idioms
Expression | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
Undecided | Not yet chosen or resolved | The date of the wedding is still undecided. |
Uncertain | Not known or definite | The election results remain uncertain. |
Pending | Awaiting a decision or approval | The request is still pending approval. |
In limbo | In a state of inaction or uncertainty | The project is in limbo while waiting for funding. |
On hold | Temporarily stopped or delayed | Our travel plans are currently on hold. |
Unresolved | Not settled or concluded | The issue remains unresolved. |
6. Comparing “Up in the Air” and “Undecided”
Criteria | Up in the Air | Undecided |
|---|---|---|
Meaning | Emphasizes a situation that’s uncertain or unresolved | Focuses on a person’s lack of decision |
Formality | Informal, commonly used in speech | Neutral, suitable in both formal and informal contexts |
Connotation | May suggest complexity or external factors | Often suggests personal indecision |
Example | My plans are up in the air because of work obligations. | I’m still undecided about which course to take. |
7. Practice Exercises (with Answers)
Exercise 1: Choose the best synonym for “up in the air”
The details of the agreement are still up in the air. → B. uncertain
With the pandemic, our travel plans were up in the air for months. → C. undecided
Don’t leave such an important matter up in the air. → A. unresolved
The election outcome remains up in the air. → C. unknown
The future of the company was up in the air after the CEO resigned. → B. uncertain
Exercise 2: Write complete sentences using “up in the air”
Our vacation plans are up in the air due to the severe weather forecast.
The future of the research project is up in the air until we receive funding approval.
After the recent merger, employee roles are up in the air.
My choice of university is still up in the air while I wait for scholarship results.
The event schedule is up in the air because the keynote speaker is delayed.
Exercise 3: Fill in the blank with “up in the air” (where appropriate)
After three interviews, the final decision is still up in the air.
The meeting has been scheduled.
She made her choice confidently; nothing was up in the air.
Our expansion plans are up in the air due to new regulations.
The contract terms are finalized.
The project’s future is up in the air while we wait for funding.
Everything is organized for the wedding.
Negotiations have been ongoing for months.
His career path was never up in the air.
After the leadership change, company policies are up in the air.
Expand Your Vocabulary with “Up in the Air”
Mastering and applying idioms like “up in the air” naturally in the IELTS Speaking test shows flexibility in language use and helps boost your Lexical Resource score. Practice it often alongside its synonyms and related expressions to strengthen your fluency and confidence.
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