poised
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
having a calm and controlled manner, even in difficult situations.
possessing self-assurance and composure; exhibiting a dignified and controlled manner.
Simple“The young pianist appeared poised and calm as she walked onto the stage.”
In context“Despite the aggressive questioning from the press, the diplomat remained poised, answering each point with measured clarity.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
completely ready to do something or for something to happen.
prepared and ready to take immediate action; often followed by an infinitive or the preposition 'for'.
Simple“The company is poised to launch its new product early next year.”
In context“With the final signatures secured, the two nations are now poised for a historic breakthrough in trade relations.”
UsageCommonly followed by 'to' + verb (e.g., 'poised to strike') or 'for' + noun.
- 03 C1 Advanced
staying still in a balanced position.
held in a state of equilibrium or suspended balance.
Simple“The bird remained poised on the thin branch, waiting for a fish to appear.”
In context“The massive boulder looked dangerously poised on the edge of the cliff, as if a single gust of wind might send it crashing down.”
Antonyms
“Vieira looks poised to join Hamburg, where he was on loan last season, for £8.6m.”
“El Hadji Malick Diouf is poised to join Brentford in a deal worth up to £40m.”