improvisation
An improvisation is when someone makes something up as they go along, like music or comedy.
When people talk about improvisation, they often mean that it's an art form where someone creates something on the spot, without planning ahead. It can be acting, dance, singing - anything that requires thinking and doing at the same time. Think of a comedian who makes jokes based on what just happened in the room, or a musician who starts playing a new melody as soon as they pick up their instrument. Improvisation is all about being creative and spontaneous, often relying on instinct rather than careful planning.
The word "improvisation" can also refer to the act of improving something by making small changes, like in cooking where you adjust flavors as you go along. In this case, it's not about creating something completely new but refining what already exists.
How common is "improvisation"?
It appears most frequently in academic texts and less often in other writings.
noun
The act or art of composing and making music, poetry, and the like, extemporaneously
Example: He played a quick improvisation on the keyboard.
Real examples of "improvisations" in context
