preparation

word

/ˌpɹɛpɝˈeɪʃən/
pre-puh-RAY-shuhn
/pɹˌɛpəɹˈeɪʃən/
pre-puh-RAY-shuhn

Definition

The act of getting ready for something, or the things done to make something ready. It can also refer to something specially made, like a substance or plan, for a particular purpose.

Usage & Nuances

'Preparation' is a formal noun often used with 'for' (preparation for an exam). It can refer to both the process (getting ready) and to a product (a chemical preparation). Common collocations: 'make preparation(s)', 'in preparation for'. Don't confuse with 'preparedness' (state of being ready), which is less common.

Example Sentences

Preparation for the trip took all week.

basic

Good preparation helps you do better in exams.

basic

They made all the preparations before the guests arrived.

basic

With a little more preparation, we could have avoided these problems.

natural

Dinner took ages because the preparation was so complex.

natural

This cream is a special preparation for dry skin.

natural