Adlibbing

Adlibbing, or ad-libbing, refers to the practice of improvising content during a performance, presentation, or recording that is not part of the written script or score. Ad-libs can be spoken lines, musical phrases, jokes, or physical actions introduced by the performer to fill gaps, respond to the audience, cover for missing material, or adapt to changing circumstances.

The term derives from the Latin ad libitum, meaning “at one’s pleasure” or “as you like,” and is widely used across theater, film, television, music, and broadcasting. In written scripts, performers may see an ad-lib cue or instruction indicating freedom to improvise within agreed boundaries.

Contexts: In theatre and cinema, actors may ad-lib to heighten realism or humor; directors and editors may approve or later remove ad-libs to maintain continuity. In music, ad-lib refers to improvisation within a given style, such as a jazz solo or ornamental flourishes, and some classical works include sections marked ad libitum. In radio and television, presenters or interviewers often ad-lib to respond to live events or unscripted moments.

Practical considerations: Ad-libbing can enrich performances but carries risks, including tonal inconsistency, misquotation, or disruptiveness. It may require rehearsal, established safety lines, or later editing; legally, quotes or copyrighted content should be handled carefully if ad-libs are drawn from scripts. Because of its spontaneous nature, ad-libbing is a common skill for professional performers.