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preparation

n.
US //ˌpɹɛpɝˈeɪʃən// UK //pɹˌɛpəɹˈeɪʃən// prepa·ra·tion
  1. 1 the act of getting ready (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the work you do to get ready for an event, task, or exam.

    the act or process of making ready or preparing for a specific purpose.

    Example

    The team spent months in preparation for the international competition.

    Example

    Careful preparation is essential for a successful interview, as it allows the candidate to articulate their experiences with greater clarity and confidence.

    Usage

    often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general effort or process.
    Pitfall
    I did many preparations for the trip.
    I did a lot of preparation for the trip.

    When talking about the general effort of getting ready, 'preparation' is usually uncountable. Use the plural 'preparations' for specific, separate tasks.

  2. 2 specific tasks or arrangements (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the specific things you do or the plans you make to get ready.

    preparatory measures or arrangements made in anticipation of an event.

    Example

    The wedding preparations are almost finished, and the guests arrive tomorrow.

    Example

    Despite the extensive preparations made by the local authorities, the scale of the storm caught many residents by surprise.

    Usage

    typically used in the plural form 'preparations'.
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  1. 3 a formulated substance (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Medicine

    a substance, such as a medicine or a chemical, that has been specially made for a purpose.

    a substance or mixture prepared according to a specific formula, often for medical or laboratory use.

    Example

    The doctor prescribed a liquid preparation to help soothe his skin.

    Example

    The pharmacist explained that this particular herbal preparation should be kept in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency.
  2. 4 music theory (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Music

    a note that is played before a difficult or clashing sound to make it smoother.

    the introduction of a dissonant note as a consonant constituent of the preceding chord.

    Example

    The composer used a careful preparation before the final dramatic chord.

    Example

    In classical counterpoint, the preparation of a dissonance is strictly governed by rules to ensure a logical harmonic progression.
Origin

From Middle English preparacion, from Middle French preparacion, from Latin praeparatio, praeparationem. Morphologically prepare + -ation.

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