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Definitions

impromptu

[im-promp-too, -tyoo] / ɪmˈprɒmp tu, -tyu /
ADJECTIVE
unrehearsed, improvised
Synonyms
STRONGEST
offhand spontaneous unscripted
STRONG
ad-lib fake
WEAK
dashed off extemporaneous extempore extemporized faked improv improviso off the cuff played by ear shot from the hip spur-of-the-moment thrown off tossed off unpremeditated unprepared unstudied vamped whipped up winged
Antonyms
STRONGEST
deliberate planned
ADVERB
unrehearsed, improvised
Synonyms
STRONGEST
offhand spontaneous unscripted
STRONG
ad-lib fake
WEAK
dashed off extemporaneous extempore extemporized faked improv improviso off the cuff played by ear shot from the hip spur-of-the-moment thrown off tossed off unpremeditated unprepared unstudied vamped whipped up winged

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Impromptu barricades block off both ends of the block.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

Impromptu left tackle Christian Hilborn did a nice job of clearing pathways, as did redshirt sophomore Rod Tialavea, who subbed in for injured tackle Esa Pole.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 21, 2023

Others could blend in with a chamber music program, like Serenade in E flat, or Impromptu No. 1 in C minor, which shares its name with one of Schubert’s most famous piano solos.

From New York Times • May 25, 2023

Alexei Lubimov was nearing the end of Franz Schubert’s Impromptu No. 2 when Moscow police burst into the hall and ordered him to stop his performance.

From Washington Post • May 3, 2022

Mademoiselle had glided from the Chopin into the quivering love notes of Isolde’s song, and back again to the Impromptu with its soulful and poignant longing.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin

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