learn on the fly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "learn on the fly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the ability to acquire knowledge or skills quickly while engaged in a task or activity. Example: "In this fast-paced work environment, employees are expected to learn on the fly to keep up with the demands of their roles."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"You learn on the fly," said one student.

Princeton University

We just have to learn on the fly".

The New York Times - Sports

"They need to learn on the fly," Rosenstein said.

The New York Times - Sports

On a small innovation team, you do quick sprints every day and learn on the fly.

The New York Times

Until then, fans attending games for the first time are likely to learn on the fly.

The New York Times - Sports

He recalled a day on the set when she was handed a new scene to learn on the fly.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

The projects are constructed in hopes of fostering the ability to think flexibly and learn on-the-fly, rather than try to predict what knowledge will be valuable.

TechCrunch

When we consider how supercomputers can simulate human brain functions, these machines need to be able to learn on-the-fly and process the extreme amounts of data needed to create the 'implanted memory' for human-like machine brains, let alone for a fully functional robot.

Forbes

It can also learn on-the-fly whenever user feedback is available in the form of correct labels of the predicted states.

Emerging Health Threats Journal

The simple answer is that many of the new skills must be learned on-the-fly, online, in executive training courses, and from experts and thought leaders.

Forbes

"We have talked to our young ones about learning fast and learning on the fly and having the older players provide examples for them".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scenario where someone learns new skills or information while actively engaged in a task, use "learn on the fly" to emphasize the real-time and practical nature of the learning process. For instance, instead of saying "She learned the software quickly", you could say "She had to "learn on the fly" to master the new software during the project".

Common error

Avoid using "learn on the fly" when referring to planned or structured learning experiences. This phrase is best suited for situations where learning is unplanned and driven by immediate needs. Don't say "He "learned on the fly" by attending a week-long training seminar"; instead, use it when someone quickly adapts to unexpected challenges during a task.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "learn on the fly" functions as a verbal phrase describing the process of acquiring knowledge or skills quickly and efficiently while engaged in a task or activity. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is usable in written English, fitting into various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "learn on the fly" is a versatile expression that describes the ability to acquire knowledge or skills quickly and efficiently in real-time situations. Ludwig confirms the usability of this phrase in different contexts. It is grammatically correct and commonly used across various fields, including news media, academia, and science. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it is more suited for informal or neutral settings, with more formal alternatives available for professional writing. When using the phrase, it is important to emphasize the real-time and practical nature of the learning process. Remember to avoid using this phrase when referring to planned learning experiences. Consider alternatives such as "learn as you go" or "pick up as you go" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

learn as you go

Focuses on the continuous learning process during the execution of a task, rather than immediate adaptation.

pick up as you go

Emphasizes the act of gradually acquiring knowledge while progressing.

adapt in real-time

Highlights the adaptive aspect of learning, focusing on immediate response to changes.

improvise knowledge

Indicates creating or inventing knowledge during a task, similar to improvisation.

gain knowledge dynamically

Stresses the dynamic aspect of acquiring knowledge, indicating that the process is not static but is evolving.

acquire skills spontaneously

Highlights the spontaneity involved in gaining the skills.

develop expertise instantly

Focuses on the rapid development of expertise, indicating immediate competence.

grasp on the move

Implies understanding or seizing concepts rapidly.

absorb information rapidly

Highlights the quick absorption of information, with a focus on input rather than application.

assimilate knowledge swiftly

Emphasizes the assimilation of knowledge, but it's more about quickly integrating it rather than learning during the task.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "learn on the fly" in a sentence?

Use "learn on the fly" to describe situations where someone acquires knowledge or skills quickly while actively engaged in a task or dealing with unexpected challenges. For instance, "The team had to "learn on the fly" to meet the project's rapidly changing requirements".

What are some alternatives to "learn on the fly" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "learn as you go", "pick up as you go", or "adapt in real-time" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "learn on the fly" in formal writing?

While "learn on the fly" is acceptable in many contexts, it's best suited for informal or neutral settings. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "acquire skills rapidly" or "develop expertise dynamically" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "learn on the fly" and "study in advance"?

"Learn on the fly" refers to acquiring knowledge or skills in real-time while actively engaged in a task, whereas "study in advance" involves preparing for a task by acquiring knowledge beforehand. The former is reactive and immediate, while the latter is proactive and planned.