What Is Another Way to Say “Ad Hoc”?

Looking for synonyms for ad hoc? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say ad hoc.

  • Improvised
  • Impromptu
  • Spontaneous
  • Unplanned
  • Makeshift
  • On-the-spot
  • Off-the-cuff
  • Extemporaneous
  • As-needed
  • Casual
  • Informal
  • Non-permanent
  • Temporary
  • Provisional
  • Special-purpose
  • For-the-moment
  • Occasional
  • Situational
  • On-the-fly

Want to learn how to say ad hoc professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Improvised

Appropriate Usage: Used when something is created or done without preparation.
Example: “The team improvised a solution during the unexpected system outage.”

2. Impromptu

Appropriate Usage: Describes something done without being planned or rehearsed.
Example: “He gave an impromptu speech at the conference when the keynote speaker was delayed.”

3. Spontaneous

Appropriate Usage: Indicates something done without pre-planning, arising naturally.
Example: “A spontaneous meeting was called to discuss the urgent issue.”

4. Unplanned

Appropriate Usage: Describes an event or action that was not scheduled or expected.
Example: “The unplanned audit revealed several important insights.”

5. Makeshift

Appropriate Usage: Used for something that is a temporary substitute, made from what is available.
Example: “They set up a makeshift office while the main building was being renovated.”

6. On-the-Spot

Appropriate Usage: Indicates a decision or action taken immediately at the time and place.
Example: “The manager had to make an on-the-spot decision to resolve the client issue.”

7. Off-the-Cuff

Appropriate Usage: Refers to something done without preparation or planning.
Example: “His off-the-cuff remarks at the meeting sparked a lot of interesting ideas.”

8. Extemporaneous

Appropriate Usage: Describes speaking or performing without prior preparation.
Example: “Her extemporaneous presentation at the workshop was highly praised.”

9. As-Needed

Appropriate Usage: Used when something is done according to when it is necessary.
Example: “Additional staff will be hired on an as-needed basis for the project.”

10. Casual

Appropriate Usage: Indicates an informal or relaxed manner, not planned in advance.
Example: “A casual brainstorming session led to the breakthrough idea.”

11. Informal

Appropriate Usage: Refers to a lack of formal structure or planning.
Example: “The team holds informal weekly check-ins to discuss project progress.”

12. Non-Permanent

Appropriate Usage: Indicates something not intended to last or be enduring.
Example: “They implemented a non-permanent fix until the software could be updated.”

13. Temporary

Appropriate Usage: Used for something intended to last for only a limited time.
Example: “A temporary committee was established to oversee the transition.”

14. Provisional

Appropriate Usage: Describes something arranged or existing for the present, possibly to be changed later.
Example: “Provisional plans have been made for the upcoming product launch.”

15. Special-Purpose

Appropriate Usage: Indicates something made or used for a particular reason or occasion.
Example: “A special-purpose tool was developed to handle the data migration.”

16. For-the-Moment

Appropriate Usage: Describes something done to suit the current situation.
Example: “For-the-moment strategies were employed to deal with the market volatility.”

17. Occasional

Appropriate Usage: Used for something that happens or is done infrequently.
Example: “Occasional team retreats are organized to foster team bonding.”

18. Situational

Appropriate Usage: Indicates something that is dependent on the current situation or circumstances.
Example: “The company adopts a situational approach to project management.”

19. On-the-Fly

Appropriate Usage: Describes something done quickly and without formal planning.
Example: “Adjustments to the project plan were made on-the-fly due to changing requirements.”

Linda Brown