ready 1 of 2

Definition of readynext
1
as in go
being in a state of fitness for some experience or action after studying for months, she felt ready for the bar exam

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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ready

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective ready contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of ready are apt, prompt, and quick. While all these words mean "able to respond without delay or hesitation or indicative of such ability," ready suggests facility or fluency in response.

backed by a pair of ready assistants

When is it sensible to use apt instead of ready?

The meanings of apt and ready largely overlap; however, apt stresses the possession of qualities (such as intelligence, a particular talent, or a strong bent) that makes quick effective response possible.

an apt student
her answer was apt and to the point

Where would prompt be a reasonable alternative to ready?

While in some cases nearly identical to ready, prompt is more likely to connote training and discipline that fits one for instant response.

prompt emergency medical care

When is quick a more appropriate choice than ready?

The words quick and ready can be used in similar contexts, but quick stresses instancy of response and is likely to connote native rather than acquired power.

quick reflexes
a keen quick mind

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ready
Adjective
The 18-year-old followed that up with a showy performance at the World Championship and might be the most NHL-ready player in this draft. Eric Stephens, New York Times, 24 June 2026 As Brazil gets ready to play Scotland on Wednesday, temperatures have cooled slightly thanks to a third of an inch of rainfall. Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026
Verb
Hannah lifted the shovel above Lizzie’s head, readying to strike the girl, when Freeman intervened. New York Times, 22 June 2026 The party often endorses the same candidates as the DSA and is readying to target more mayoral offices in the country's biggest metropolises this fall and in 2028. ABC News, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ready
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ready
Adjective
  • In May 2025, the Fortune 500 company and the third largest footwear company in the world announced a $9 billion go-private deal with Brazilian private equity firm 3G Capital — the biggest shoe buyout in history.
    Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 6 May 2026
  • All of these transmedia opportunities come as the larger entertainment industry is taking note on the value of games, with Electronic Arts’ recently announced $55 billion go-private deal being a key indicator of where priorities lie for investors.
    Jennifer Maas, Variety, 11 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • Charles may be willing to reopen family conversations, while William remains focused on protecting the institution and the people closest to him.
    Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
  • In the immediate future, Lendeborg is already a high-quality rebounder and a willing defender who was twice the American Athletic Conference’s Defensive Player of the Year at Alabama-Birmingham.
    Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • Either way, Aestura’s Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Cream Mist is an easy way to give quick hydration to dry, stressed skin, thanks to an ultrafine spray packed with ceramides.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 24 June 2026
  • From California politics to safety concerns on Sacramento roads, here’s a quick digest of some of the top stories for June 23, 2026.
    Ruyuan Li. Summary produced by AI assistance, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • This morning favors gentle starts and better listening, while the afternoon asks us to slow replies, check assumptions, and make our tone easier to understand.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 23 June 2026
  • If CosRx can convince people to willingly slather snail mucin on their faces, trusting the brand with hair care is a pretty easy next step.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • While park conditions can often be dangerous, from high heat to landslides, the key to a safe national park visit is being well-informed and prepared.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 22 June 2026
  • After Alicent’s misunderstanding — which leads to Aegon II claiming the throne — Rhaenyra prepares for war and gathers allies to fight for her rightful claim to the throne.
    Skyler Trepel, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • MonthiraYodtiwong/Getty Images Few sources of income are as legally fortified as a federal disability check.
    Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 22 June 2026
  • The Greens made a key alliance with the Triarchy to fortify its naval forces.
    Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
Adjective
  • If the same scenario plays out again, the Jazz seem prepared to repeat their own decisions and deal with any uncomfortable dynamics later.
    Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2026
  • Forecasters are urging Georgians to monitor the latest forecasts, have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and be prepared to seek shelter if severe weather warnings are issued.
    CBS News Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • After a road trip that ended with a disappointing sweep in Detroit, the White Sox are glad to be back home for a division duel against the Cleveland Guardians that kicks off on Monday night.
    Jori Parys, CBS News, 23 June 2026
  • Burnham is a proven-glad hander who knows how to charmingly converse with individuals.
    Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

Cite this Entry

“Ready.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ready. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.

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