What does "prepared" mean?

1. (ready for use or action) ready for something that you expect to happen. 2. (willing to do something) willing or happy to do something if it is necessary.

How do you use "prepared"?

Often followed by the preposition 'for'. Usually followed by a 'to' infinitive.

prepared

adj.

US //pɹiˈpɛɹd// UK //pɹɪpˈeəd// pre·pared

1 ready for use or action (adj.)
B1 Intermediate

ready for something that you expect to happen.

made ready or fit for a specific purpose, event, or use.

Example

The team felt prepared for the final match after weeks of hard training.

Example

The emergency services remained fully prepared for the approaching storm, with additional staff stationed at high-risk coastal areas.

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'for'.
- unprepared
- unready
2 willing to do something (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

willing or happy to do something if it is necessary.

disposed or willing to perform a specific action.

Example

I am prepared to wait a bit longer if you need more time.

Example

The board of directors was prepared to offer a significant salary increase to prevent the lead developer from joining a competitor.

Usage

Usually followed by a 'to' infinitive.
- unwilling
- reluctant

Origin

From prepare + -ed.