Definition

To perform or create something without preparation or planning, often in an impromptu manner.

Example

During the meeting, she had to extemporise her presentation when the projector failed.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how he had to extemporise during the presentation?

Yeah, it was impressive how he handled it without any notes.

I don’t think I could extemporise like that on the spot.

Same here! I’d probably just freeze up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Extemporise → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of) and "temporarius" (from Latin, meaning temporary or of time). The word means to speak or perform without preparation, as if coming out of the moment or time.

Memory Tip

Think of speaking or performing 'out of' ('ex-') the 'moment' ('temporarius') — that's why extemporise means to do something spontaneously.

Visually Confused Words