# poised

/ˈpɔɪzd/ (US) · /pˈɔɪzd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/poised
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. calm and confident

adjective · CEFR B2

having a calm and controlled manner, even in difficult situations.

For teachers: possessing self-assurance and composure; exhibiting a dignified and controlled manner.

- The young pianist appeared poised and calm as she walked onto the stage.
- Despite the aggressive questioning from the press, the diplomat remained poised, answering each point with measured clarity.

### 2. ready to act

adjective · CEFR B2

completely ready to do something or for something to happen.

For teachers: prepared and ready to take immediate action; often followed by an infinitive or the preposition 'for'.

- The company is poised to launch its new product early next year.
- With the final signatures secured, the two nations are now poised for a historic breakthrough in trade relations.

Usage: Commonly followed by 'to' + verb (e.g., 'poised to strike') or 'for' + noun.

### 3. balanced

adjective · CEFR C1 · Literary

staying still in a balanced position.

For teachers: held in a state of equilibrium or suspended balance.

- The bird remained poised on the thin branch, waiting for a fish to appear.
- The massive boulder looked dangerously poised on the edge of the cliff, as if a single gust of wind might send it crashing down.

## Examples

- The cat is poised to jump on the mouse.
- The company is poised to become the market leader after its latest successful product launch.
- Despite the intense pressure from the media, the young diplomat remained poised, answering every difficult question with remarkable grace and clarity.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.