verb
improvise
IHM-pruh-vyz
verb
1
To create or perform something on the spot without preparation, often using whatever is available.
"When the power went out, they had to improvise dinner by candlelight."
"The actor improvised a line when he forgot the script."
How to Use Improvise
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo make something up or do something without any planning, often using what's at hand.
Common pairings
improvise a solution
forced to improvise
Word Forms
improvised past tense, improvises singular
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When the power went out, they had to _____ dinner by candlelight.
Etymology
From French improviser, ultimately from Latin improvisus ("unforeseen").