Extemporaneous Versus Impromptu Speaking

Most dictionaries equate extemporaneous and impromptu speaking, suggesting that both are “speaking off the cuff” with little or no preparation. But those who teach public speaking skills have long maintained there is a difference. They do define impromptu speaking as speaking off the cuff with little or no preparation. But they define extemporaneous speaking as speaking that appears to be off the cuff and therefore spontaneous, but that requires preparation and rehearsal—especially to be effective.

Here are links that explain this difference and provide tips on how to deliver extemporaneously:

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