WordGarden.iopreparation
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /prˌɛpərˈeɪʃən/
US
- /ˌprɛpərˈeɪʃən/
Meanings
Noun
the act or process of getting ready for something
a prepared medicinal substance or formulation
Beyond the definition
Preparation isn't just about packing a suitcase before a trip; it's the entire process of getting ready for something – anything! Think of a chef carefully chopping vegetables, or an athlete training for a marathon. Both are engaged in preparation. It can be physical, like building a fort, or mental, like studying for a test. Sometimes preparation is obvious, like writing a speech, and sometimes it's subtle, like quietly gathering your thoughts before a difficult conversation. A little preparation can make all the difference between success and scrambling at the last minute!
Consider the story of Little Red Riding Hood – if she'd had better preparation (perhaps telling someone exactly where she was going!), things might have gone very differently with the wolf. Preparation is about anticipating what's to come and taking steps to handle it effectively.
Preparation refers to the actions taken to make something ready for a specific purpose, situation, or event. It's more than just last-minute scrambling; it involves thoughtful planning, gathering resources, and practicing skills in advance. For example: "Months of preparation went into launching the new product," or "The soldiers underwent rigorous preparation before deployment."
Preparation can be both practical and mental. Practical preparation might involve assembling materials, creating a schedule, or learning a new skill. Mental preparation could include visualizing success, managing anxiety, or developing a strategy.
The level of preparation needed depends on the task at hand. A simple meal requires minimal preparation – chopping some vegetables and heating up water. But complex endeavors like surgery, space travel, or writing a novel demand extensive and meticulous preparation.
We often talk about "adequate preparation," meaning enough has been done to ensure success. Lack of preparation can lead to mistakes, delays, and even failure. As the old saying goes, "Proper preparation prevents poor performance." Think of an artist sketching before painting – that's preparation! Or a musician practicing scales – also preparation! It's the unseen work that often determines the visible outcome.
So, whether you're facing a big challenge or simply planning your day, remember that preparation is key to achieving your goals and navigating life with confidence.
Examples
- 1
Job interview
Good preparation helped her feel calm before the interview.
- 2
Travel planning
He made careful preparations for the long trip.
- 3
Presentation planning
The team met every day in preparation for the final presentation.
- Patternin preparation for + event
as part of getting ready for it
- 4
Report writing
The preparation of the report took longer than expected.
- Patternpreparation of + thing
the work of creating or putting it together
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Food safety
Wash your hands before food preparation.
- 6
Herbal medicine
This herbal preparation is not safe for children.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- improvisation
- unpreparedness
Used with (collocations)
- make preparations
- in preparation for
- careful preparation
- exam preparation
Word family
Explore
- readiness
- contingency planning
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- preparationnoun
Forms
- preparationspluralnoun