Meaning & Definition of word "Improvise"
to
Improvise
/ˈɪmprəvaɪz/
verb:
- 1. To create or perform something spontaneously or without preparation.
- Example: During the talent show, she had to improvise her dance routine when the music stopped unexpectedly.
- 2. To make something up on the spot using whatever resources are available.
- Example: When the team lost their props for the skit, they had to improvise using everyday items from around the classroom.
- 3. To perform music or a theatrical piece without written notes or a script.
- Example: The jazz musicians love to improvise, creating new melodies as they play.
Etymology
From French 'improviser', from Latin 'improvisus', meaning 'unforeseen'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
improvise on the spot:
to create something in a spontaneous manner without planning.
improvise a solution:
to quickly come up with a way to solve a problem using available resources.
Related Words
extemporize:
to compose or perform something without preparation.
ad-lib:
to perform or speak without preparing or planning ahead.
Slang Meanings of improvise
Meaning: Wing it
Example Sentence: I didn't study for the exam, so I'm just going to wing it.
Meaning: Make it up as you go
Example Sentence: We didn't have a plan for the meeting, so we just made it up as we went.