impromptu
An impromptu performance is one that's not planned ahead, but happens spontaneously. It can be anything from music or dance to a speech.
When people talk about an impromptu situation, they usually mean something unplanned and often a bit unexpected. For example, if someone asks you to give a short presentation on the spot, it's likely to be an impromptu thing. You might have some ideas already in mind, but you're not going to prepare a long speech beforehand. In music or theater, an impromptu performance can happen when musicians are jamming together or actors decide to improvise a scene on stage.
How common is "impromptu"?
Word impromptu is considered rare in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
Definitions
adjective
Improvised; without prior preparation, planning or rehearsal.
Example: The party began with an impromptu rendition of 'Happy Birthday'.
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Real examples of "impromptu" in context
