What is preparation? Pronunciation and usage in English

preparation means . Learn how to pronounce and use preparation through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of preparation

preparationnoun

/ˌprɛpəˈreɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of preparation

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "preparation" in English. It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

/ˌprɪˌpærɪˈʃən/

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • prɪ - Rhymes with "try" or "fry". It's a quick, short "i" sound.
  • pær - This is the trickiest part. It's a broad ‘a’ sound. Think of the “a” in “father” or “car.” It’s slightly longer than the "i" sound. The 'r' is lightly rolled.
  • ɪ - Again, rhymes with "try" or "fry". A short "i" sound.
  • ʃən - This sounds like "shun" (as in “sun”). It's a distinct "sh" sound followed by a short "un" sound.

Putting it together slowly:

/ˌprɪˌpærɪˈʃən/

Pronounced something like: "PRI-puh-RIH-shun"

Tips for getting it right:

  • The "pær" sound: Really focus on that broad “a” sound. It’s the key difference between this word and, say, "prepare."
  • Don’t over-emphasize the ‘r’: The ‘r’ in “pær” is subtle; it’s a slight roll, not a loud, noticeable “r.”
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it spoken correctly. Search for "how to pronounce preparation" on YouTube. You'll find many audio examples.

Resources for Hearing It:

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
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Usage and examples with the word preparation in English

Let's break down how to use the word "preparation" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and usages. Here's a breakdown organized by category:

1. As a Noun (the core meaning – things you do beforehand)

  • General Preparation: This is the most common use. It refers to the act of getting ready for something.

    • "I need some preparation before the exam – I need to study."
    • "The airline provides thorough preparation for emergency landings."
    • "Proper preparation is key to a successful business venture."

  • Specific Preparation (for a particular event): Details about what you do to get ready for something specific.

    • "The wedding preparation involved months of planning and decorating."
    • "He spent hours on preparation for his presentation, creating slides and practicing his speech."
    • "Our preparation for the hike included packing food, water, and maps."

  • Food Preparation: The process of getting food ready to cook or eat.

    • "The preparation of the vegetables was beautiful – they were all perfectly diced."
    • "She specializes in Mediterranean preparation of fish."

  • Mental Preparation: Getting your mind ready for something.

    • “She needed some mental preparation before agreeing to the difficult task.”
    • “Deep breathing is a good technique for relaxation and preparation.”

2. As an Adjective (describing something that's been prepared)

  • Well-Prepared: Describes something that has been done adequately.
    • "He gave a preparation that was clear and concise." (This is less common, but technically correct. More naturally "He gave a thorough preparation...")
    • "The company's preparation for the market changes was impressive." (Again, a slightly unusual phrasing – "strategic preparation" is better.)

3. Phrases Using "Preparation"

  • Preparation is key: (A common idiom) - Meaning: Getting ready thoroughly is vital for success.

    • “Preparation is key to winning the race.”

  • Preparation meeting: (Business) – A meeting dedicated to planning and strategizing.

    • “We had a lengthy preparation meeting before launching the new product.”

  • Preparation time: – The amount of time spent preparing.

    • “I need at least two hours of preparation time before the event.”

  • Routine preparation: – A regular or habitual preparation process. “She follows a daily routine preparation for her skincare.”

Tips for Using "Preparation" Correctly

  • Consider the Context: The meaning of “preparation” depends on the situation.
  • Synonyms: Sometimes, using a synonym can make your writing clearer. Consider:
    • Planning: (Focuses on the strategy)
    • Getting ready: (More general)
    • Rehearsal: (For performance)
    • Forethought: (Thinking ahead)
  • Avoid Overuse: Don't use "preparation" excessively. Clarity is more important than using a fancy word.

Examples Demonstrating Different Uses:

  1. "The chef’s meticulous preparation ensured a perfect dish." (Noun - general)
  2. “The preparation for Christmas started in November.” (Noun - specific event)
  3. "He made a detailed outline as part of his preparation for the report." (Noun - process)
  4. “She showed impressive preparation in her interview.” (Adjective - describing proficiency)

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., academic essay, business report, creative writing, everyday conversation)
  • Can you provide a specific sentence or phrase where you're trying to use "preparation"?

Synonyms for the word preparation

Practice with vocabulary preparation

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The team's meticulous _______ for the presentation ensured a smooth and successful delivery of their proposal.
  2. Adequate _______ of materials is crucial for conducting a successful scientific experiment.
  3. Despite his detailed _______, the project encountered unexpected delays due to external factors.
  4. Her natural _______ to lead quickly became apparent during the crisis.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following activities are considered part of "preparation"? a) Gathering necessary resources for a task. b) Mentally rehearsing a difficult conversation. c) Executing a pre-planned step-by-step procedure. d) Crafting a detailed agenda for an upcoming meeting. e) Making a spontaneous decision without prior thought.

  2. Which sentences correctly use the word "preparation" or a close synonym in a similar context? a) "The successful launch was a result of years of careful preparation." b) "His natural readiness to speak up made him a strong candidate." c) "The chef devoted meticulous planning to the new menu." d) "We need to make arrangements for the conference venue." e) "Her extensive preparation for the exam paid off with high scores."

  3. What is essential for adequate preparation for a disaster relief effort? a) Establishing communication channels. b) Stockpiling emergency supplies. c) Training response teams. d) Post-disaster assessment of damage. e) Distributing aid to affected areas.

  4. Which of these words best describes the state of being fully equipped and willing to act? a) Organization b) Readiness c) Anticipation d) Foresight e) Execution

  5. The manager's primary concern was the systematic _______ of tasks to achieve project milestones. a) coordination b) anticipation c) rehearsal d) readiness e) assessment

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The team spent a lot of time getting ready for the crucial negotiation. (Rewrite using "preparation" or a related word form)
  2. Before the audit, it is vital to get all financial documents organized. (Rewrite using "preparation" or a related word form)
  3. The project manager ensured all necessary steps were taken before starting the new phase. (Rewrite without using "preparation", but with a suitable replacement word)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. preparation
  2. preparation
  3. planning
  4. readiness

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Gathering necessary resources for a task. b) Mentally rehearsing a difficult conversation. d) Crafting a detailed agenda for an upcoming meeting.
  2. a) "The successful launch was a result of years of careful preparation." e) "Her extensive preparation for the exam paid off with high scores."
  3. a) Establishing communication channels. b) Stockpiling emergency supplies. c) Training response teams.
  4. b) Readiness
  5. a) coordination

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The team dedicated significant time to the preparation for the crucial negotiation.
  2. Before the audit, thorough preparation of all financial documents is vital.
  3. The project manager ensured all necessary arrangements were made before starting the new phase.

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