improvise
Improvise (verb) means to create or perform something on the spot without preparation, often using whatever is available. Example: “When the power went out, they had to improvise dinner by candlelight.”
How to use improvise
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo make something up or do something without any planning, often using what's at hand.
Word forms
improvised past tense, improvises singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
When the power went out, they had to _____ dinner by candlelight.
Etymology
From French improviser, ultimately from Latin improvisus ("unforeseen").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for improvise
See all rhymes for improvise →Frequently asked questions
What does “improvise” mean?
The word “improvise” means to create or perform something on the spot without preparation, often using whatever is available. In plain terms, to make something up or do something without any planning, often using what's at hand.
How do you pronounce “improvise”?
“Improvise” is pronounced IHM-pruh-vyz (/ˈɪm.pɹə.vaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “improvise” in a sentence?
Here is “improvise” used in a sentence: “When the power went out, they had to improvise dinner by candlelight.”
What part of speech is “improvise”?
“Improvise” is a verb.
Where does the word “improvise” come from?
The word “improvise” comes from Latin. From French improviser, ultimately from Latin improvisus ("unforeseen").