"Make up as it goes along" is a colloquial expression that means to invent or create something spontaneously or to improvise as one progresses without any preconceived plans or prior preparation. It refers to the act of fabricating or formulating an idea, story, plan, or solution on the spot, as circumstances dictate, without adhering to set guidelines or predetermined instructions.
This phrase is commonly used to describe situations where someone is making up or conjuring up explanations, rules, or directions as they proceed, often in response to unexpected or unforeseen circumstances. It implies a lack of premeditation or systematic approach and suggests that the person is developing ideas or strategies on the fly, adapting to changing conditions without any preconceived notions.
Typically associated with improvisation or spontaneous thinking, "make up as it goes along" can be applied to various contexts, such as storytelling, problem-solving, or decision-making. It implies a level of flexibility and adaptability, as individuals adjust their plans or actions based on the evolving situation without adhering to a predetermined path.
While this approach can be effective in certain scenarios, it can also lead to uncertainty and lack of consistency, as decisions are made without thorough consideration or careful analysis. Therefore, "make up as it goes along" often implies an element of risk or potential for unpredictability in the outcomes.
