Impromptu Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ɪmˈprɒmptuː/

Part of Speech

Noun or Adverb

Definition

A spontaneous or unexpected event or performance, especially in music or theatre; to do something without prior planning or preparation.

Examples

The band played an impromptu set at the street festival.
She decided to write an impromptu poem about the sunset.

Synonyms

Improvisation
Spontaneity
Off-the-cuff

Antonyms

Preplanned
Scripted
Edited

Etymology

From French ‘impromptu’, from Latin ‘improvisus’, past participle of ‘improvisare’, from ‘im-‘ (not) + ‘provisus’ (taken beforehand).

Usage Notes

Impromptu can be used as either a noun or an adverb. As a noun, it refers to a spontaneous event or performance. As an adverb, it means to do something without prior planning.

Cultural References

Impromptu has been used in various forms of media, including music, theatre, and film. For example, in the movie “La La Land”, the main characters play an impromptu duet at a jazz club.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Impromptu speech
Impromptu performance
Thinking on one’s feet

Related Words or Phrases

Improvisation
Spontaneity
Off-the-cuff

Collocations

Impromptu gig
Impromptu speech
Impromptu decision

Frequency of Use

Impromptu is a relatively rare word, but its usage has increased in recent years due to its association with improvisation and spontaneity.