student asking question

What does "makeshift" mean? Can I use "temporary" instead of "makeshift"? Is it different from "extraordinary"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"Makeshift" means "temporary", however, it usually means that it is a temporary solution that came together last-minute or during a time of need or emergency. So you can use "temporary" instead of "makeshift", but "makeshift" has a slightly different meaning. Ex: We've turned these extra buildings into makeshift hospitals so there is more room for patients. Ex: Pillows can be used as makeshift chairs when you don't have enough chairs. However, "extraordinary" has a different meaning from both of these words as it describes something that is both very unusual and amazing. Ex: This coffee is extraordinary. Ex: Your piano skills are extraordinary.

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