Prepare
/prɪˈpɛər/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo make something ready or suitable for a particular purpose or activity.
/prɪˈpɛər/
To make ready or fit for a particular purpose.
I need to prepare dinner before my family arrives.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're getting ready for a party! Preparing means you're making everything ready: setting up decorations, getting the snacks, and putting on your best outfit. It's all about getting ready for something fun!
👶 For kids: To get ready.
More Examples
She prepared for the interview by researching the company.
The team is preparing the report for the board meeting.
The students diligently prepared for their final exams.
How It's Used
"The chef prepared the meal."
"Students prepare for exams."
"Prepare a presentation for the meeting."
To provide or equip someone or something with what is needed or required.
/prɪˈpɛər/
To provide with what is necessary.
The chef prepared the dish with fresh herbs and spices.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're baking a cake. Preparing means you have all the ingredients ready: the flour, the sugar, and the eggs. It's like gathering everything you need to make something happen.
👶 For kids: To get the things you need.
More Examples
They prepared the ground for planting the seeds.
The technician prepared the machine for operation.
How It's Used
"She prepared the ingredients for the cake."
"The doctor prepared the patient for surgery."
Idioms & expressions
prepare for
To get ready or take action in advance of an event or situation.
"We need to prepare for the upcoming storm."
From Middle English *parayren*, from Old French *preparer*, from Latin *praeparare* ('to make ready beforehand'), from *prae* ('before') + *parare* ('to furnish, provide').
The word 'prepare' has been used since the 14th century and was a standard term in English language usage for the past centuries.
Memory tip
Think of 'pre' as before and 'pare' as getting things in order. Prepare means to get things ready before something else.
Word Origin
"to make ready"