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readiness

preparedness
[C/U] Both
pl: readinesses

This word carries a dual energy. In a tactical or organizational sense, it describes a mechanical or logistical state of alert, evoking images of packed bags, fueled engines, and sharpened tools. It suggests a threshold where preparation meets immediate action. In a personal or social sense, it shifts toward an internal disposition of openness. Here, it describes a spirit of generosity or a lack of hesitation, suggesting a psychological state where a person is emotionally primed to say yes to a request or a new challenge.

Uncountable when describing a general quality of being willing (her readiness to help). Countable when referring to a specific level or degree of preparation (a high state of readiness).

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Sarah is hiding in the breakroom to avoid David.
Jessica

David's on a warpath. Is your readiness for the presentation actually 100%?

Jessica
Sarah
Sarah

Barely. I'm just winging it at this point.

💡
Jessica uses 'readiness' to refer to the state of being fully prepared for a high-stakes meeting. Sarah responds with the idiom 'winging it', meaning to do something without preparation, highlighting her exhausted and indifferent state compared to Jessica's anxiety.

Meanings

Nounpreparedness

The state of being fully prepared for something, especially for a task or an emergency.

"The army maintained a high state of readiness during the border crisis."

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English word redines, which evolved from the Old English word raedan meaning to advise or prepare. The term was formed by adding the suffix -ness to the adjective ready, which itself stems from the Proto-Germanic root radiz, signifying a state of being prepared or equipped for immediate action.

Related Words

Last Updated: June 8, 2026Report an Error