play it by ear

1. To improvise: “Rather than plan an elaborate strategy, Andy decided to play it by ear.” Music played by ear does not follow written notes.

Example Sentences

“But at the same time if I’m not here I know somebody else would be happy to take me. We’ll see how it all plays out. Just play it by ear.”

From Seattle Times

“As long as he’s in relatively good shape, you work him in and get him playing, and you play it by ear and eyes and see where he is after that.”

From Washington Times

“We’d like to get a little rhythm going and accomplish certain things, so we will play it by ear,” Reich said.

From Washington Times

"You've got to play it by ear. But yeah, realistically, three or four out of five would be more realistic than five."

From BBC

“We’ll just play it by ear every day. And that’s the thing. And yes, I know I’m not going to rush back before I have to,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times