improvise
Translation
to improvise, to ad-lib, to make do
Examples
The pianist had to improvise a solo.
The pianist had to improvise a solo.
We had no script, so we had to improvise.
We had no script, so we had to improvise.
I forgot my tools, so I improvised with a coin.
I forgot my tools, so I improvised with a coin.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to create or perform (sth.) spontaneously The jazz musician improvised a beautiful melody.
((on sth.)) to improvise on a particular subject The speaker improvised on the topic of creativity.
Similar Words
Synonyms: ad-lib, extemporize, make do; Antonyms: plan, prepare, rehearse
Etymology
From Latin 'improvisus' (unforeseen), from 'in-' (not) + 'provisus' (foreseen). Meaning 'not foreseen'.
Memory Tips
Think 'in-' (not) + 'provide'. When things are not provided for you, you have to improvise.