Extempore Meaning and Definition
Extempore
Pronunciation
/ɛksˈtɛm.pɔr/
Part of Speech
Noun, Verb
Definition
A term used in music, dance, and theater to describe a performance or composition that is improvisational, spontaneous, and unplanned; an impromptu speech or composition.
Examples
- The jazz musician’s extempore solo impressed the audience.
- The speaker’s extempore speech was praised for its creativity and wit.
Synonyms
- Improvisational
- Spontaneous
- Unplanned
Antonyms
- Prearranged
- Planned
- Scripted
Etymology
The word “extempore” comes from the Latin “ex tempore”, meaning “from the moment” or “on the spot”. It has been used in the English language since the 16th century to describe a performance or composition that is created without prior planning or preparation.
Usage Notes
Extempore is often used in the context of music, dance, and theater to describe a performance or composition that is improvisational and unplanned. However, it can also be used to describe a speech or written piece that is created on the spot without prior planning or preparation.
Cultural References
Extempore has been used in various forms of media, such as in the context of jazz music, comedy, and spoken word poetry.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“On the spot” is an idiomatic expression that means creating something without prior planning or preparation.
Related Words or Phrases
- Improvisation
- Spontaneity
- Glossa
Collocations
- Extempore speech
- Extempore music
- Extempore dance
Frequency of Use
The word “extempore” is not as commonly used as other words, but it is still used in various contexts, especially in the music, dance, and theater communities.
Common Misspellings
- Extimpor
- Extemper