What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extemporaneous
Example
The speaker gave an extemporaneous speech on the topic of climate change. [extemporaneous: adjective]
Example
The band played an extemporaneous jazz piece that they had never rehearsed before. [extemporaneous: adjective]
spontaneous
Example
The children broke into spontaneous laughter at the sight of the clown. [spontaneous: adjective]
Example
The couple decided to take a spontaneous road trip to the beach. [spontaneous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spontaneous is more commonly used than extemporaneous in everyday language. Spontaneous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while extemporaneous is less common and typically used in formal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extemporaneous and spontaneous?
Extemporaneous is more formal than spontaneous. It is often used in academic or professional contexts to describe speeches or presentations that are given without prior preparation or rehearsal. Spontaneous, on the other hand, is more informal and casual in tone and can be used in a variety of contexts.
