ready 1 of 2

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
And one that is speeding toward Kansas City ready to make an impact. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 2 Mar. 2025 Just two weeks removed from an embarrassing loss at Seton Hall, the Huskies looked and sounded like a team ready to go on a run Saturday. Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 1 Mar. 2025
Verb
Next Chapter Sonos is reportedly readying a new video streaming box designed to expand its reach deeper into the home theater marketplace. Julian Chokkattu, WIRED, 8 Feb. 2025 The Bears seem to be readying themselves to take their big swing at landing Johnson — or pivot if the Lions OC takes a job elsewhere. Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ready
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ready
Adjective
  • If the Cowboys opt for the poison preferred recently by Carolina, Evans — Tampa Bay’s career receiving yardage leader — could conduct a go-route clinic.
    Joey Knight, Dallas News, 14 Jan. 2023
  • This is my new go-spring treat for sunny afternoons and porch-chair traveling.
    Kim Sunée, Anchorage Daily News, 22 Apr. 2021
Adjective
  • Between the two of them, Basel is the more reticent, the one less willing to dream out loud.
    Gal Beckerman, The Atlantic, 28 Feb. 2025
  • There's no guarantee that the private sector is willing to pick up either the capital expenditure or the operation and maintenance (much less the legal liabilities) of some 122 weather radars, 16 satellites, 15 ships and 10 airplanes.
    Dan Perry, Newsweek, 28 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • But don’t be too quick to go for short-term solutions.
    Ray Titus, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
  • Austin-Healey was quick to capitalize on the Sprite’s sporting success.
    Tim Pitt, Robb Report, 27 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • This is easy to achieve with smart lighting, smart bulbs, and even some smart alarm clocks—such as the Hatch Restore 3 (8/10, WIRED Recommends), which is a sound machine and a sunrise alarm all rolled into one.
    Louryn Strampe, WIRED, 9 Mar. 2025
  • That transition isn’t easy, and Lee understands there are notable differences in play at this level, particularly the speed of the game.
    Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 9 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • House of the Little Pig regularly will bring in animals for Posada to prepare.
    Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 6 Mar. 2025
  • Also making the rounds was Sarah Burton, who was preparing to show her debut collection for Givenchy on Friday and will be joining the LVMH Prize jury as a result.
    Joelle Diderich, WWD, 6 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Its design aligns with the relentless pace of business leadership, preserving revenue while fortifying resilience. 2.
    Jaime Catmull, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025
  • The brand also fortified management with the 2021 hire of Keller, entered e-commerce, and initiated a retail expansion.
    Miles Socha, WWD, 25 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Be prepared to let go of some control of your itinerary, as weather conditions can be unpredictable and WiFi coverage is limited.
    Dobrina Zhekova, Vogue, 4 Mar. 2025
  • Arrange dough balls evenly between prepared baking dishes; cover and let rise in a warm place (75°F to 80°F) until dough is almost doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
    Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 6 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • What seems certain is that both the club and player will be glad when the summer transfer window opens and AC Milan can part ways with Theo Hernández with the two parties clearly needing a fresh start.
    Adam Digby, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025
  • Marian coach Dan Murray knows his team survived an off shooting night but was glad the Spartans could still win against the Celtics.
    Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 28 Feb. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Ready.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ready. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

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