Translation guide
The English phrase 'get ready' is used to tell someone to prepare for something, or to describe the act of preparing oneself. In Japanese, the most natural expression depends on the context: whether you're telling someone to prepare, describing your own preparation, or referring to getting ready for a specific event. The most common and versatile verb is 準備する (junbi suru), but other words like 用意する (yōi suru) and 支度する (shitaku suru) are also used in specific situations.
Get ready! (casual)
I'm getting ready.
Are you ready?
To make preparations for something, such as an event, trip, or task. This is the most common meaning.
The most general and widely used verb for 'to prepare' or 'to get ready'. It can be used for both physical and mental preparation.
I'm getting ready for the trip.
Are you ready for the exam? (lit. Have you prepared for the exam?)
Similar to 準備する, but often implies making something ready for immediate use or having something on hand. It can also mean 'to provide' or 'to arrange'.
Often used for getting ready to go out, such as dressing up, packing, or preparing one's appearance. It has a slightly more personal, everyday feel.
Are you ready yet? (to go out)
Telling someone to prepare themselves or something for an upcoming action or event.
Casual command meaning 'get ready'. Use with friends or family.
Describing the action of preparing oneself, often for going out or starting something.
Standard way to say 'I'm getting ready' or 'I'll get ready'.
Expressing that preparations are complete and one is ready.
Means 'to be ready' or 'to be prepared'. The verb できる indicates completion.
準備 (junbi) is the most general and can be used for any kind of preparation. 用意 (yōi) often implies having something ready for immediate use or for someone else. 支度 (shitaku) is commonly used for personal preparations like getting dressed or packing to go out. In many cases, 準備 and 用意 are interchangeable, but 支度 has a narrower scope.
We got the room ready for the guests.
Please get ready so we can leave right away.
夕食の支度を手伝って。
Help me get dinner ready.
Hurry up and get ready!
Polite command. Use in formal situations or with strangers.
Please get ready to depart.
Casual command, often used when asking someone to prepare something specific.
Get some tea ready.
I'll get ready now.
Often used for personal grooming or dressing up.
I have to get ready before going out.
I'm already ready.
Let me know when you're ready.
Similar to 準備ができている, but often used when something is arranged or set up.
The meeting room is ready.
Prepare for a trip. (Both OK)
Get dinner ready. (支度 is natural here)
The English verb 'get' has many meanings, and in 'get ready', it does not correspond to a single Japanese verb. Avoid trying to translate 'get' separately. Instead, use the whole phrase 準備する, 用意する, etc.
I need to get ready for the meeting.
She's getting ready to go out.