Translation guide
Describes something that is uncertain, undecided, or unresolved. The most natural Japanese expressions depend on whether you are talking about plans, decisions, or outcomes.
Express that a plan, decision, or situation is not yet settled and the outcome is unknown.
The date for the meeting is still up in the air. · Our vacation plans are up in the air right now.
Express that a problem, issue, or result is not yet resolved and could go different ways.
The outcome of the trial is still up in the air. · Whether we'll get funding is up in the air.
Do not translate 'up in the air' literally as 空中に (in the sky). That would mean something is physically floating, not uncertain.
The schedule is still up in the air.
The most straightforward way to say something is not decided. Natural in everyday conversation.
来週の予定はまだ決まっていない。
Next week's plans are still up in the air.
Emphasizes that something is unclear or vague. Works for both plans and abstract situations.
彼の意向はまだはっきりしていない。
His intentions are still up in the air.
Formal term for 'uncertain' or 'indeterminate'. Used in business or technical contexts.
プロジェクトの終了日は不確定です。
The project end date is up in the air.
Means 'unresolved' or 'pending'. Suitable for problems, questions, or disputes.
その問題はまだ未解決だ。
That issue is still up in the air.
Literally 'left floating in the air'. A vivid, slightly metaphorical way to say something is unresolved or in limbo.
交渉は宙に浮いたままだ。
The negotiations are still up in the air.
Specifically means a conclusion has not been reached. Good for discussions or decisions.
まだ結論が出ていない。
The conclusion is still up in the air.
Means 'shelved' or 'put on hold'. Used when a matter is deliberately left unresolved for the time being.
その計画は棚上げ状態だ。
The plan is up in the air (shelved).