# unprepared

/ˌənpɹiˈpɛɹd/ (US) · /ʌnpɹɪpˈeəd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unprepared
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

not ready for something that is about to happen. You feel this way when you haven't done the work or planning needed for a task.

For teachers: not ready or equipped to deal with a particular situation or task. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'feel', 'seem', or 'appear'.

## Examples

- I felt completely unprepared for the difficult exam.
- The small coastal town was caught unprepared when the storm suddenly changed direction and intensified.
- Entering the negotiations unprepared can lead to significant concessions that undermine the long-term viability of the partnership.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I am unprepared of the test" but "I am unprepared for the test" — The adjective 'unprepared' collocations with 'for', not 'of'.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'for' or a to-infinitive.

---

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.