improvise
IM-pruh-vyze
/ˈɪm.prə.vaɪz/
To create and perform music or drama spontaneously without previous preparation.
Highlights spontaneous creativity and real-time adaptation during a performance.
The story behind the word. From French 'improviser', from Italian 'improvvisare', rooted in Latin 'improvisus' meaning 'unforeseen' (in- 'not' + provisus 'foreseen'). Literally, to improvise is to act on what was not foreseen.
Word relationships
- extemporize: Extemporize is more formal and used frequently for public speaking or classical performance.
- ad-lib: Ad-lib often refers to spoken dialogue or quick improvised remarks.
- script: To script is to plan and write out every detail in advance.
- rehearse: To rehearse is to practice prepared material beforehand.
Commonly confused with
- compose: Compose involves deliberate, written creation over time; improvise is spontaneous live creation.
Word family
- improvisation (noun): The act of creating music or drama spontaneously.
- improvisational (adjective): Characterized by spontaneous creation.
Collocations
- improvise a solo
- improvise freely
- forced to improvise
- ability to improvise
Idioms & expressions
- wing it
- play it by ear
Example sentences
- "When the power temporarily flickered, the saxophonist began to improvise an acoustic solo." Jazz Concert
Memory hook
IM-PROVISE: IM (not) PROVIded in advance—made up on the spot! Unforeseen creation.
When not to use
Do not use when following a strictly written musical score note for note.
Fun facts
- In jazz, improvising over standard chord progressions is called 'jamming'.
Related words
Explore more words
improvisation, impromptu, spontaneous, provisional, impulsive, extemporaneous
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