English vocabulary · B2
Impromptu
/ɪmˈprɑːmptuː/ · adj., adv.
It means done without any planning or preparation. Made up on the spot.
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Example sentences
- She gave an impromptu speech at the wedding.
- The band played an impromptu show downtown.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- im — in (from Latin)
- prompt — ready (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- UNPLANNED — not planned ahead (Simple & Direct)
- SPONTANEOUS — done on impulse (Natural & Sudden)
- OFFHAND — without preparation (Casual & Quick)
Words with the same root
prompt — ready
- prompt — quick and ready
Lesson notes
Impromptu. It means done without any planning or preparation. Made up on the spot.
Related: unplanned, spontaneous, offhand. Use impromptu when there is no time to plan.
She gave an impromptu speech at the wedding. The band played an impromptu show downtown.
From Latin. Im- means in. Prompt- means ready. Made from what is ready right now — that is impromptu.