What does “On the fly” mean?
"On the fly" means doing something without any preparation or planning.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He came up with a solution on the fly during the meeting.
Example
I had to make dinner on the fly because I didn't have time to go grocery shopping.
Example
She's really good at thinking on the fly and coming up with creative ideas
Is “On the fly” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“On the fly” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “On the fly” effectively in context?
You can use "On the fly" to describe doing something without preparation or planning. It implies that the action is done quickly and improvisationally. For example, if someone asks how you came up with a solution during a meeting, you might say, 'I had to think on the fly and come up with a solution in the moment.'
- 1Work
He came up with a solution on the fly during the meeting.
- 2Daily Life
I had to make dinner on the fly because I didn't have time to go grocery shopping.
- 3Creativity
She's really good at thinking on the fly and coming up with creative ideas.
Similar phrases to “On the fly”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On the fly” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On the fly" is unknown.
Is “On the fly” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "On the fly" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they have to think quickly and make decisions or take actions without much preparation.
What tone does “On the fly” have?
"On the fly" conveys a tone of adaptability and resourcefulness. It suggests being able to handle unexpected situations and come up with solutions on the spot.
Can “On the fly” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "On the fly" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a situation where something is done quickly and without much planning. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or business meetings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He had to come up with a solution on the fly.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'll do it "on the fly"' to imply doing something quickly and without much preparation.
