spur-of-the-moment

American  

[spur-uhv-thuh-moh-muhnt] / ˈspɜr əv ðəˈmoʊ mənt /

adjective

1. occurring or done without advance preparation or deliberation; extemporaneous; unplanned.

   a spur-of-the-moment decision.

---

Etymology

Origin of spur-of-the-moment

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

But, while she may no longer feel able to wear the T-shirt which inspired her "corny" spur-of-the-moment quote, it has since become clear that the impact was worth the sacrifice.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

Everything in that seemingly spur-of-the-moment scene would have had to have been carefully arranged, which is why it comes off as clumsily showy rather than truly delightful.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 13, 2025

Beyond the open-ended questions, he saw how the techniques encouraged investigators to prepare for interviews, rather than relying on spur-of-the-moment intuition or tricks.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2024

Liu, who lives in Manhattan, elaborated on why her library card, spur-of-the-moment theatergoing and riding her bicycle are essential to her well-being.

From New York Times • Nov. 23, 2024

Still, spur-of-the-moment jobs could land you in trouble.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover