# make it up as one goes along

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/make-it-up-as-one-goes-along
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To improvise continuously.

## Examples

- I forgot my speech, so I made it up as I went along.
- The project plan was unclear, so the team had to make it up as they went along to finish on time.
- Without a formal script or rehearsal, the actors made it up as they went along, creating a surprisingly compelling performance for the audience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.