# improvisation

/ˌɪmpɹɑvɪˈzeɪʃən/ (US) · /ˌɪmpɹəvaɪzˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/improvisation
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the act of making something up as you go along, rather than following a plan. You use this when you have to solve a problem quickly or perform without practice.

For teachers: the creation or performance of something spontaneously without previous preparation. Often refers to creative arts like music and acting, or to solving a problem using only available resources.

## Examples

- The actor's improvisation made the whole audience laugh.
- When the microphone failed, the speaker's improvisation kept the crowd engaged until the technical issue was resolved.
- While jazz relies heavily on improvisation, the performers must still adhere to an underlying harmonic structure to ensure the collective sound remains coherent and purposeful.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general skill or concept; countable when referring to a specific instance or performance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.