wing it
Wing it (verb phrase) means to do something without preparation, improvising as you go along instead of following a plan or script. Example: “I hadn't read the report, so I just winged it in the meeting.”
How to use wing it
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo do something without preparing first.
Informal but very widely used, including in professional settings. Fine in speech and casual writing; avoid in formal reports.
The past tense is normally "winged it", not "wung it". The object "it" cannot be dropped.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
We'll _____ — nobody's going to notice we haven't rehearsed.
Etymology
From theatrical slang: an under-rehearsed actor learned lines in the wings of the stage, or was prompted from them.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between winging it and playing it by ear?
Winging it means you have done no preparation at all and are improvising the whole thing. Playing it by ear means you have a rough idea but are deliberately leaving the details until you see how things unfold. Winging it is usually a confession; playing it by ear is usually a choice.
Is the past tense "winged it" or "wung it"?
"Winged it" is the standard past tense, because the verb comes from the noun "wing" and is regular. "Wung it" is a jokey non-standard form some speakers use for comic effect.
Is "wing it" rude or unprofessional?
It is informal but not rude, and it is common in workplaces. Saying it about yourself sounds self-deprecating; saying it about someone else's work can sound like criticism of their preparation.
What is the meaning of wing it?
"wing it" (verb phrase) means to do something without preparation, improvising as you go along instead of following a plan or script.