Translation guide
The English verb 'prepare' covers a range of actions from making something ready in advance to getting oneself mentally or physically ready. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is being prepared and the nature of the preparation.
To get something ready for a future event or purpose, often involving planning or arrangement.
The most general and common verb for preparing things, events, or oneself. It implies making arrangements or getting things ready beforehand.
I'm preparing for the trip.
Please prepare the materials for the meeting.
Similar to 準備する, but often emphasizes having something ready and available for immediate use. It can feel slightly more concrete or physical.
We prepared a room for the guests.
To put something in order, arrange, or adjust it so that it is in a proper state. Often used for appearance, environment, or conditions.
To make food ready to eat, including cooking and arranging.
The most common verb for preparing food, equivalent to 'make' or 'cook'. Used for meals, dishes, and drinks.
To get oneself ready for something challenging, such as an exam, speech, or competition.
Used reflexively or with 心の準備 (mental preparation) or 体の準備 (physical preparation).
To draft, write, or compile a document, report, or presentation.
To make arrangements or take precautions for something that will happen.
Both mean 'prepare', but 準備する focuses on the process of getting ready, while 用意する emphasizes the state of being ready. 用意する often implies that the prepared item is now available for use.
Prepare for the trip (process)
I need to prepare for the exam.
Keep emergency food prepared.
To prepare one's appearance (groom oneself).
I'm preparing dinner.
Can you prepare a salad?
Can be used for food preparation, but often implies a more formal or large-scale preparation, like for a party or event.
Prepare food for the party.
A technical term for cooking or food preparation, often used in recipes or professional contexts.
Prepare the ingredients.
I prepared thoroughly for the exam.
I'm not mentally prepared.
To prepare oneself mentally for something difficult or unpleasant; to be resolved or ready to face a challenge.
I'm prepared for the worst.
To brace oneself physically or mentally for an immediate action or impact.
He prepared himself for the punch.
Prepare a report.
I'm preparing presentation materials.
Also used for documents, but often implies gathering and arranging existing materials rather than creating from scratch.
Prepare the contract.
To prepare for a future event, especially for emergencies, disasters, or difficult times. Often used with に.
Prepare for earthquakes by buying water in advance.
Prepare for the future.
General preparation for events, but 備える is stronger for precautionary or defensive preparation.
Prepare for the party.
お金を用意する（すぐ使える状態）
Prepare money (have it ready)
While 準備する can be used for food, it sounds formal or large-scale. In daily conversation, use 作る (to make) or 料理する (to cook) for preparing meals.
Prepare dinner.
She prepared a delicious meal.
We must prepare for the worst.