English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
In the air
Meaning
The idiom "in the air" is a figurative expression that means something is uncertain or undecided, and it has not yet been determined or finalized. It can also refer to something that is pending or ongoing, but not yet complete. The idiom may originate from the literal meaning of "in the air," which refers to something that is suspended in the atmosphere or unconfined by any physical boundaries.
The literal meaning of the idiom "in the air" refers to something that is floating, hovering, or hanging in mid-air. It can also refer to something that is being circulated or discussed publicly, such as a rumor or speculation. However, the figurative meaning of the idiom "in the air" is to describe something that is uncertain or undecided and has not yet been determined or finalized.
Usage
Here are five examples of how the idiom "in the air" can be used in different contexts:
- The acquisition of the new contract is still in the air, and we don't know if we will get it or not.
- The outcome of the election is still in the air, as no one knows who will win.
- The date of the concert has not been confirmed yet, so it's still in the air.
- The final decision on whether to shut down the factory is still in the air, and we don't know what will happen.
- The status of our proposal is still in the air, and we're waiting to hear back from the committee.
Roots and History
The idiom "in the air" has been used in English since at least the 14th century. It originally refers to something that is suspended in the atmosphere or unconfined by any physical boundaries. Over time, the figurative meaning of the idiom has evolved to describe something that is uncertain or undecided and has not yet been determined or finalized.
Synonyms in English
Here are three synonyms for "in the air" in English:
- Up in the air
- Undetermined
- Pending
Synonyms in other languages
Here are five synonyms with translations and descriptions in other languages:
- suspendu (Spanish) - Suspended or delayed indefinitely
- לאהם (Hebrew) - Uncertain or unclear
- أخرى نعرى برهمك (Arabic) - We will see what happens later
- فضولات (Arabic) - Delayed or postponed indefinitely
- أردوغان (Persian) - Uncertain or undetermined