improvise
/ˈɪmpɹəvaɪz/
Group 16Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To create and perform spontaneously or without preparation GRE
Example in Context
When the teleprompter failed, the seasoned politician was able to improvise a speech that proved more compelling than the prepared text.
Synonyms
wing itad-libmake up
Etymology
To create something spontaneous, without prior planning or foresight.
- im- (Latin) — not
- provisus (Latin) — foreseen
Memory Aid
👀Sounds like “improve eyes”
When I had to IMPROVISE a speech, my eyes popped out like cartoon characters!
Visual Association
🎭A performer on stage, pulling random props from a box to create a hilarious scene on the spot.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “improvise” mean on the GRE?
improvise (verb) means “To create and perform spontaneously or without preparation”. When the teleprompter failed, the seasoned politician was able to improvise a speech that proved more compelling than the prepared text.
How to remember “improvise” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “improvise” sounds like “improve eyes”. When I had to IMPROVISE a speech, my eyes popped out like cartoon characters!
What are synonyms for “improvise”?
Common synonyms: wing it, ad-lib, make up.