Translation guide
The English word 'preparations' refers to the actions, arrangements, or things done in advance to get ready for something. In Japanese, the most common and versatile equivalent is 準備 (junbi), but depending on the context, other words like 用意 (youi), 支度 (shitaku), or 手配 (tehai) may be more natural. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on the type of preparation and the situation.
The broadest sense of making arrangements or taking steps in advance for an event, task, or future situation.
The most common and general word for 'preparations'. It covers a wide range of situations, from everyday tasks to large-scale projects. It can be used as a noun or a suru-verb (準備する).
旅行の準備はもうできましたか。
Have you finished the preparations for the trip?
明日のプレゼンの準備をしなければなりません。
I have to prepare for tomorrow's presentation.
Often interchangeable with 準備, but 用意 emphasizes having things ready or at hand for immediate use. It can imply a state of readiness rather than the process. Commonly used for setting out items or making arrangements for a specific purpose.
Refers specifically to preparations related to dressing, grooming, or packing for going out. Often used for getting ready in the morning or before a trip. More personal and immediate than 準備.
Preparations involving coordination, reservations, procurement, or administrative tasks.
Focuses on making arrangements, especially logistical ones like booking tickets, hiring services, or organizing resources. Often used in business or travel contexts.
Preparations that are formal, traditional, or associated with a particular occasion.
Still the default, but in formal contexts it can be paired with honorifics or specific nouns.
Getting oneself psychologically ready for something challenging or important.
Literally 'heart/mind preparation'. Used when bracing oneself for bad news, a difficult task, or an emotional event.
結果を聞く前に心の準備をしてください。
Please prepare yourself mentally before hearing the results.
Describing that something is already prepared or in a state of being ready.
A common phrase meaning 'to be ready' or 'preparations are complete'. The verb できる indicates the state of readiness.
いつでも出発できるように準備ができています。
We are ready to leave at any time.
準備 (junbi) is the most general and can be used for almost any kind of preparation. 用意 (youi) emphasizes having things ready for immediate use, often implying a state of readiness. 支度 (shitaku) is limited to personal preparations like getting dressed or packing for an outing. For example, 旅行の準備 (trip preparations) is natural, but 旅行の支度 sounds more like packing your bags and getting yourself ready to leave. 用意 is common in phrases like 用意ができた (it's ready).
English often uses 'make preparations' as a set phrase. In Japanese, it's more natural to use the verb 準備する (junbi suru) or the noun + をする construction. Saying 準備を作る (junbi o tsukuru) is incorrect. Use 準備をする or simply 準備する.
The room is ready for the guests.
非常食を用意しておくことが大切です。
It's important to have emergency food prepared.
It takes time to get ready in the morning.
出かける支度を手伝ってください。
Please help me get ready to go out.
ホテルの手配はもう済みました。
The hotel arrangements have already been made.
交通手段の手配をお願いします。
Please arrange transportation.
Refers to the planning and sequencing of steps to ensure a smooth process. Often used for events, projects, or work procedures. Implies a systematic approach.
イベントの段取りを確認しましょう。
Let's confirm the arrangements for the event.
仕事の段取りが悪いと時間がかかる。
If the work isn't well-organized, it takes longer.
Used for advance preparations that are built-in or set up beforehand, such as stocking ingredients, setting up equipment, or training. Common in cooking, theater, and business.
料理の仕込みは前日にやっておきます。
I do the prep work for cooking the day before.
結婚式の準備に半年かかりました。
It took six months to prepare for the wedding.
Specifically refers to setting up a venue, equipment, or facilities for an event. Common for conferences, exhibitions, or outdoor events.
会場の設営は明日の朝から始めます。
We will start setting up the venue tomorrow morning.
Implies readiness to face a difficult or unpleasant situation with determination. Stronger than 心の準備, often used for serious matters.
彼は失敗する覚悟で挑戦した。
He took on the challenge prepared to fail.
Similar to 準備ができている, but often implies that specific items or arrangements are in place and ready for use.
食事の用意ができました。
Dinner is ready.