adjective

makeshift

/ˈmeɪkʃɪft/ · say it: MAYK·shift

serving as a temporary substitute

In Describing & Comparing

In more detail

1. (adjective) made or provided quickly as a temporary solution, usually because something better is not available

2. (noun) something that is made or used temporarily as a solution

Examples

1. We used a makeshift shelter made from branches and cloth when we got lost hiking.
2. After the storm damaged our fence, we put up a makeshift until we could repair it properly.

How to use makeshift

Makeshift describes something hastily assembled or improvised due to necessity or lack of better alternatives, often with a connotation of being crude or functional rather than ideal. It is more common as an adjective than as a noun and carries a neutral to slightly informal tone, frequently used in contexts describing emergency situations, poverty, or resourcefulness.

Common phrases

makeshift shelter
makeshift solution
makeshift repairs
makeshift arrangement
makeshift camp

Synonyms

temporary · improvised · stopgap · provisional · ad hoc

Opposites

permanent · planned · professional

Word family

make · shift

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use makeshift to mean simply 'temporary' without the implication of improvisation or necessity; makeshift specifically suggests a quick, improvised solution made from available materials, not merely something that will only last a short time.

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