play by ear

VERB

extemporize

Synonyms

STRONG

ad-lib devise invent

WEAK

dash out do offhand improvisate knock off make up toss off

Antonyms

WEAK

plan prepare read rehearse

VERB

make up

Synonyms

WEAK

ad-lib blend coin combine compose compound concoct construct contrive cook up devise dream up fabricate fabulize fake it fashion fictionalize fix formulate frame fuse hatch improv improvise invent join knock off make meld merge mingle mix originate prepare pretend put together ready storify trump up whip up wing it write

Antonyms

WEAK

be real tell the truth

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He was plunked before a piano at age 3 and by 5 could play by ear.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

Goolsbee said the Fed would need to "play by ear" whether any further rate increases are needed.

From Reuters • Sep. 25, 2023

So I just taught myself more in church how to play by ear.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 2, 2023

In his teaching Tony often encourages his students to play by ear, without sheet music.

From BBC • Sep. 9, 2021

Could she play by ear, like he did, or did she only read notes?

From "Clayton Byrd Goes Underground" by Rita Williams-Garcia