Word
improv
Phoneticsim·prov, stress on the first syllable
/ˈɪmˌpɹɑv/
Uncountable noun InformalTheater
Definition
n. a style of acting or music where the performers make everything up as they go. There is no script, so they have to react quickly to each other.
n. performance art, particularly comedy or theatre, created spontaneously without a script or prior preparation. Often used as a modifier in compound nouns like 'improv group' or 'improv class'.
Examples
“We went to see an improv show last night.”
“The actors asked the audience for a location and a random object to start their improv scene.”
“While improv appears entirely chaotic to the uninitiated, it actually relies on a strict set of internal rules, such as the 'yes, and' principle, to maintain narrative momentum.”
Examples
simple
“We went to see an improv show last night.”
contextual
“The actors asked the audience for a location and a random object to start their improv scene.”
complex
“While improv appears entirely chaotic to the uninitiated, it actually relies on a strict set of internal rules, such as the 'yes, and' principle, to maintain narrative momentum.”
Usage
Commonly functions as an attributive modifier before other nouns; informal shortening of 'improvisation'.
Etymology
Clipping of improvisation and improvise.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/improv