ENGLISH
REFERENCE

improv

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɪmˌpɹɑv// im·prov Informal

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'.


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.

Origin

Clipping of improvisation and improvise.

Usage

Commonly functions as an attributive modifier before other nouns; informal shortening of 'improvisation'.

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