play (something) by ear
US /pleɪ ˈsʌm.θɪŋ baɪ ɪr/
UK /pleɪ ˈsʌm.θɪŋ baɪ ɪr/
1.
to decide how to deal with a situation as it develops, rather than by having a fixed plan
:
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We don't have a set schedule for the trip; we'll just play it by ear.
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I can't give you a definite answer now, let's just play it by ear and see how things go.
2.
to play a piece of music without having seen it written down
:
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She can play any song by ear after hearing it once.
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Many jazz musicians prefer to play by ear rather than read sheet music.