adjective
ad hoc
ad HOK
Ad hoc (adjective) means Created or done for one particular purpose only, rather than planned in advance or intended to last. Example: “An ad hoc committee was set up to handle the complaint.”
adjective
1
Created or done for one particular purpose only, rather than planned in advance or intended to last.
"An ad hoc committee was set up to handle the complaint."
"Cover was arranged on an ad hoc basis."
adverb
1
In a way that addresses only the case at hand.
"Decisions were taken ad hoc."
How to use ad hoc
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDone just for this one situation, not planned in advance.
When to use it
Latin phrase, fully naturalised in English. Normally written without italics or a hyphen when used as two words.
Common pairings
ad hoc basis
ad hoc committee
ad hoc arrangement
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An _____ committee was set up to handle the complaint.
Etymology
From Latin "ad hoc," literally "for this" — that is, for this particular purpose.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does ad hoc mean?
Made or done for one specific situation only, without being part of a wider plan. An ad hoc solution deals with the problem in front of you and is not meant to be permanent.
Is ad hoc negative?
Not inherently. It is neutral when describing something purpose-built for one occasion, but it can imply a lack of planning when contrasted with a proper system.
What is the meaning of ad hoc?
"ad hoc" (adjective) means created or done for one particular purpose only, rather than planned in advance or intended to last.
What is another word for ad hoc?
Other words for "ad hoc" include improvised, makeshift, impromptu.
