Makeshift
/ˈmeɪkʃɪft/
adjectivenounB2
Definition
Makeshift describes something made quickly and simply to be used for a short time, usually because the real or better thing is not available. It can be a temporary tool, shelter, or plan used in an emergency or unexpected situation.
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See It in Action
Temporary and quickly made object or tool
- •We used a makeshift table by stacking boxes during the party.
- •The hikers built a makeshift shelter to protect themselves from the rain.
- •His chair was a makeshift seat made from an old crate.
Temporary or informal solution or plan
- •They made a makeshift plan to finish the work before the deadline.
- •The school used a makeshift classroom while the main building was repaired.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "makeshift" like "temporary" (A2 word), but with the idea that it is made fast and not perfect, just enough to work now
- ✓Picture a small tent made from a blanket and sticks when you don’t have a real tent
- ✓It’s the feeling when you fix something quickly with tape because you don’t have the right parts
- ✓Sounds like "make-shift" → imagine someone MAKING a SHIFT (change) from normal to temporary, fast solution
- ✓Imagine a story where people build a shelter after a storm with whatever they find around
- ✓NOT like "permanent" (lasts a long time), makeshift only lasts a short time
- ✓NOT like "professional" (made well and carefully), makeshift is rough and simple
- ✓NOT like "planned" (prepared in advance), makeshift is made quickly when needed
Try Other Words
- •Temporary: lasting only a short time (Use when focusing on time, not how it was made)
- •Improvised: made without preparation, quickly done (Use when emphasizing the quick, unplanned creation)
- •Provisional: arranged for now but likely to change later (Use in formal or official contexts for temporary arrangements)
- •Ad hoc: made for a special purpose, often quickly (Use in formal contexts for solutions created for one situation)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "make" (to create) + "shift" (move or change) → meaning a created change or quick fix
- •Etymology: English origin, combining two simple words to describe something made by shifting or changing from normal
- •Historical development: Used since the early 19th century to describe temporary or emergency solutions
- •Modern usage: Commonly used to describe quick, temporary objects or plans made when needed, especially in emergencies or unexpected situations
Reflect & Connect
•Have you ever made a makeshift solution for a problem? What did you use, and how did it work?
•How do you decide when a makeshift solution is good enough or when you need a better, permanent fix?
Fill in the blanks
1.When the power went out, we used a makeshift ___ made from candles and jars to see in the dark.
2.The team created a makeshift plan because the original ___ was not ready.
3.Makeshift shelters are often built quickly after a ___ or natural disaster.
4.Unlike a permanent chair, a makeshift seat is usually ___ and not very comfortable.
5.They had to make a makeshift repair ___ the broken window until a professional could fix it.
6.A makeshift solution works ___ but might not last for a long time.
7.When you use a makeshift tool, it usually means you ___ the right tool for the job.