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impromptu

[ im-promp-too, -tyoo ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

made or done without previous preparation:
an impromptu address to the unexpected crowds.
suddenly or hastily prepared, made, etc.:
an impromptu dinner.
improvised; having the character of an improvisation.

adverb

without preparation:
verses written impromptu.

noun

something impromptu; an impromptu speech, musical composition, performance, etc.
a character piece for piano common in the 19th century and having, despite its title, a clear-cut form.

impromptu

/ ɪ��ˈ��ɒ��ː /

adjective

unrehearsed; spontaneous; extempore
produced or done without care or planning; improvised

adverb

in a spontaneous or improvised way
he spoke impromptu

noun

something that is impromptu
a short piece of instrumental music, sometimes improvisatory in character

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Word History and Origins

Origin of impromptu¹

First recorded in 1660–70; from French, from Latin in promptū “in readiness”; in, prompt

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Word History and Origins

Origin of impromptu¹

C17: from French, from Latin in promptū in readiness, from promptus (adj) ready, prompt

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Synonym Study

See extemporaneous.

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

I’d heard about his style of working and it is very impromptu.

From

But they may also use the Pope's funeral as a rare and unexpected opportunity to conduct a little impromptu diplomacy.

From

Bridges recalls a particularly surreal moment when the music icon came knock-knock-knockin’ on his trailer door, guitar in hand, for an impromptu jam.

From

One leans back on the other while they’re in line to collect their paycheck, creating an impromptu embrace that goes unseen by anyone nearby.

From

The three of them become an impromptu family.

From

Related Words

improbity improper

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