MacGyver
/mækˈɡaɪ.vər/ IELTSAcademic
verb
to make or fix something in a clever way using whatever is available. It often suggests quick, improvised problem-solving, especially in a difficult situation.
- She MacGyvered a phone stand from cardboard.
- He MacGyvered the broken handle with tape.
- They MacGyvered a solution before the meeting.
noun
a person who is very good at clever improvising and fixing things with limited materials.
- My uncle is a real MacGyver.
- We need a MacGyver on this team.
- She's the office MacGyver.
Adinary Nuance
MacGyver is more playful and specific than improvise or jury-rig. It often suggests a clever, hands-on fix using odd materials, and it can sound slightly admiring. Use it when the solution is inventive, not neat or professional.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- ứng biến khéo
- Spanish
- arreglar improvisando
- Chinese
- 灵机应变
- Japanese
- 応急処置する
- Korean
- 응급으로 고치다
Etymology
The word comes from Angus MacGyver, the clever TV hero in the American series MacGyver, first shown in the 1980s. People later turned the name into a verb for improvised fixing.
Common phrases
MacGyver a solutionMacGyver something togethera MacGyver fix
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is MacGyver formal or informal?
- It is informal and often playful. It fits speech, stories, and casual writing better than formal reports.
- What is the difference between MacGyver and improvise?
- Improvise is broader. MacGyver suggests a clever physical fix using nearby things.
- Can I use MacGyver as a noun?
- Yes. It can mean a person who fixes things cleverly with little help or few tools.
- Is MacGyver common in business writing?
- Not usually. It sounds too casual for formal business writing, unless you want a light tone.