What Is Another Way to Say “On the Fly”?

Looking for synonyms for on the fly? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say on the fly.

  • Spontaneously
  • Impromptu
  • On the spur of the moment
  • Without planning
  • Ad-lib
  • In the moment
  • Off the cuff
  • Unrehearsed
  • Improvisationally
  • Without preparation
  • Extemporaneously
  • In an instant
  • On a whim
  • At a moment’s notice
  • Freestyle

Want to learn how to say on the fly professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Spontaneously

Used to describe actions or decisions made without prior planning or preparation.
Example: “The team had to respond spontaneously to the unexpected software failure.”

2. Impromptu

Appropriate for something done without being planned, organized, or rehearsed.
Example: “The CEO gave an impromptu speech to address the sudden changes in the company.”

3. On the Spur of the Moment

Used to describe a decision or action taken suddenly and without forethought.
Example: “He decided on the spur of the moment to attend the overseas conference.”

4. Without Planning

Suitable for actions or decisions made without prior preparation or organization.
Example: “The marketing strategy was developed quickly and without planning due to the market shift.”

5. Ad-Lib

Used when something is performed without preparation, using one’s creativity and spontaneity.
Example: “During the presentation, she had to ad-lib when the projector failed.”

6. In the Moment

Appropriate for actions or decisions made in direct response to the situation at hand, without premeditation.
Example: “The manager made a decision in the moment to resolve the client’s complaint.”

7. Off the Cuff

Used to describe remarks or actions made without previous thought or preparation.
Example: “His off-the-cuff remarks during the meeting captured everyone’s attention.”

8. Unrehearsed

Suitable for actions or performances that occur without practice or preparation.
Example: “The team’s response to the crisis was effective, despite being unrehearsed.”

9. Improvisationally

Used when actions or responses are created spontaneously, without a script or plan.
Example: “The team leader spoke improvisationally when asked about future project plans.”

10. Without Preparation

Appropriate for actions or decisions made without the usual necessary preparation.
Example: “The report was delivered without preparation due to the tight deadline.”

11. Extemporaneously

Used to describe speaking or performing in a spontaneous or improvised manner.
Example: “She answered the investor’s questions extemporaneously, drawing on her extensive experience.”

12. In an Instant

Suitable for quick decisions or actions taken immediately.
Example: “In an instant, the safety officer initiated the emergency protocol.”

13. On a Whim

Used to describe actions taken spontaneously and impulsively.
Example: “The CEO changed the meeting agenda on a whim, focusing on new priorities.”

14. At a Moment’s Notice

Appropriate for actions or decisions made very quickly and with little warning.
Example: “The IT team is accustomed to responding to issues at a moment’s notice.”

15. Freestyle

Used in contexts where actions or performances are done without specific structure or rules, relying on one’s creativity.
Example: “In the brainstorming session, we encouraged everyone to think and speak freestyle.”

Linda Brown